Aracatuba Airport

Araçatuba Airport, officially known as Araçatuba–Dario Guarita State Airport (Aeroporto Estadual Dario Guarita), serves as the key aerial gateway to the city of Araçatuba and the northwestern region of the state of São Paulo. This cosy and functional airport plays a significant role in the transport infrastructure of Brazil, ensuring connectivity with the country's major cities. It caters to both business travellers and tourists arriving to explore the region's economic and cultural hub. The airport offers essential amenities to make the beginning and end of your journey as comfortable as possible.

Despite its modest size, Araçatuba Airport efficiently handles its operations. It has been managed by the ASP consortium (Aeroportos Paulista) since 2021 and regularly services flights to key hubs such as Campinas and São Paulo. The airport features a single asphalt runway over 2,100 metres long, capable of accommodating medium-haul aircraft. For passenger convenience, essential services are provided, and its compactness allows for quick processing of all pre-flight and post-flight formalities, which is an undoubted advantage for those who value their time.

Below you will find contact information for Araçatuba Airport (ARU), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any issues that may arise.

• Official Website: For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations, visit the official website of the management company ASP (Aeroportos Paulistas): www.aeroportospaulistas.com.br
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +55 (18) 3623-4011.
• Airport Address: Rodovia Olegário Ferraz, S/N - Aeroporto, Araçatuba - SP, CEP 16052-801, Brasil.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the management company's contact email: contato@aeroportospaulistas.com.br.
• Social Media: Follow news from the ASP airport network on Instagram: @aeroportos_asp.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged during the flight, you should immediately contact your airline's representative at the airport. For items left behind in the terminal, please contact the airport administration by phone.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or additional information, you may use the information desk phone number or email address listed above.

Getting to Araçatuba Airport (ARU) from the city centre of Araçatuba is straightforward, as it is located just 10 kilometres away. A trip by car usually takes about 15–20 minutes, though time may vary depending on traffic.

Taxis and Transfers. This is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport. You can book a car via popular ride-hailing apps in Brazil or use local taxi services. The estimated cost of a trip from the city centre is approximately 30–50 Brazilian Reals (BRL), but this can change depending on the time of day and road conditions. Although more expensive than other options, a taxi ensures maximum comfort, which is especially relevant when travelling with significant luggage or as a family.

Public Transport. This is generally the most budget-friendly option. However, direct bus routes from the city centre to the airport may be limited or unavailable. Tourists are advised to check information on available routes on local transport websites in advance. It is worth noting that a bus journey may take longer and be less convenient if you have heavy suitcases.

Car Rental. If you value freedom of movement and plan to explore the region, renting a car is an excellent choice. Several rental companies operate in Araçatuba. You can pick up a car in the city, drive comfortably to the airport, and leave it in the parking lot or return it at the company's desk directly in the terminal.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available within the Araçatuba Airport grounds. Zones are provided for both short-term and long-term parking, allowing you to leave your vehicle for the duration of your journey.

Araçatuba–Dario Guarita Airport (ARU) is a small regional airport characterised by a simple and clear structure. This makes it very convenient for passengers, as navigation presents no difficulties.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to the building's compact size, all key zones are within walking distance of each other. There are no complex passageways or needs for internal transport—everything is located in a single building.

Terminal Structure and Navigation:

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. The departure and arrival zones are separated but situated nearby.

• Departure Zone: After checking in for the flight and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed through pre-flight security screening and enter a small departure lounge. Seating is available here, where you can comfortably wait for the boarding announcement.
• Arrival Zone: Upon arrival, passengers head to the arrivals hall where the baggage claim belt is located. The exit to the city is situated immediately after this zone.

Check-in and security procedures at Araçatuba Airport generally proceed significantly faster than at major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive approximately 1.5 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, even if small queues arise.

The main advice for navigation is not to worry. It is practically impossible to get lost in this compact terminal. Information boards and signs will help you orient yourself, and if you have any questions, you can always approach the airport staff.

The history of Araçatuba Airport (ARU), officially known as Aeroporto Estadual Dario Guarita, is closely linked to the economic development of the city of Araçatuba and the entire northwestern region of the state of São Paulo. Founded in 1956, it was created to meet the growing needs of this important agro-industrial centre of Brazil. Initially, its main task was to ensure transport accessibility for a region that was actively developing thanks to livestock farming and sugarcane cultivation.

Originally a modest airfield with a dirt strip, the airport has undergone significant changes over time. As the regional economy grew, the need for modernisation arose. A key stage was the paving of the runway and the construction of a small passenger terminal. An important event in the airport's history was its naming after Dario Guarita—an influential local entrepreneur and politician—highlighting his significance to the local community.

In recent decades, the airport has gone through several stages of reconstruction to meet modern safety and comfort standards. Works were carried out to expand and strengthen the runway, upgrade lighting and navigation systems, and renovate the passenger terminal. These improvements allowed it to accommodate more modern types of aircraft and increase passenger flow, strengthening its role as a vital aerial gateway for business travellers and tourists.

An interesting fact: the airport's history is inextricably linked with the city's unofficial title—"Capital do Boi Gordo" (Capital of the Fat Ox). Air transport played a key role in logistics and attracting investors for major livestock auctions and fairs. Although the airport may not boast national records, its main achievement is over half a century of service towards the economic prosperity and transport accessibility of one of the most important regions in the state of São Paulo.

Araçatuba Airport (ARU) is a small regional aviation hub serving the city of Araçatuba and its surroundings in Brazil. Despite its compact size, the terminal offers a basic range of services to make waiting for flights as comfortable as possible for passengers.

In the airport building, you will find a small café or snack bar where you can have a bite to eat, drink coffee, or purchase soft drinks. The selection of dining establishments and shops is limited, so for extensive shopping or a full dinner, it is better to rely on the infrastructure of the city itself.

Standard waiting halls are equipped for passengers. There are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport. Passengers can access Wi-Fi, though it is best to check the terms and stability on-site. Power outlets for charging electronic devices can also be found in the terminal, although their number may be limited.

ATMs are installed on the airport premises for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points are generally absent here, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance at banks in the city. A medical post is available for emergency assistance.

The airport is equipped with basic facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, to ensure accessibility to all zones. For travellers with small children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms.

There are no hotels within the airport itself. The nearest accommodation options are located in the city of Araçatuba, just a few kilometres from the terminal. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are not provided at Araçatuba Airport, as it is primarily oriented towards serving passenger flights.

When planning a snack at Araçatuba Airport (ARU), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport. The choice of establishments here is focused on a quick and convenient format rather than a variety of restaurants. Nevertheless, you can easily find a place to have coffee and refresh yourself before departure or after arrival.

The main place for dining at the airport is a small snack bar or café located in the public area of the single terminal, before the security checkpoint (landside). Here, passengers are offered classic Brazilian snacks (salgados), which are ideal for a light bite. Be sure to try the famous cheese buns pão de queijo, chicken croquettes coxinha, or fried pastries called pastel. Of course, you will also be offered excellent coffee, for which Brazil is famous, as well as fresh juices and soft drinks.

If you are counting on a full hot lunch or dinner, such options are likely unavailable at the airport. For a more substantial meal, it is better to dine in advance at one of the restaurants in the city of Araçatuba. Although the region is known for its meat dishes, the airport café menu mainly features quick and simple snacks that are convenient to take with you.

Passengers with special dietary requirements should be prepared for a very limited selection. Vegetarians will be able to find cheese buns or other snacks with cheese; however, please note that specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal-certified meals are generally absent from the menu. In such cases, it is safer to carry your own snacks. Prices in the café are moderate but slightly higher than in the city, and the opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule to serve all departures and arrivals.

When planning a trip through the airport serving the city of Araçatuba, it is worth considering a few tips to make your journey as smooth and pleasant as possible. These recommendations will help you save time, reduce stress, and even save money.

Airport Arrival and Check-in. Araçatuba Airport is a regional hub, so there is usually less hustle and bustle here than in metropolises. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. This way, you can either go straight to security (if travelling without luggage) or quickly drop off your suitcases at the dedicated counter.

Security Control and Seat Selection. When passing through security, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronic devices, as well as your bag of liquids, from your hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, remember: window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats offer more legroom and the ability to leave the cabin quickly upon arrival. Seats over the wing generally ensure the most stable flight with minimal turbulence.

Hand Luggage Rules. Standard international rules apply in Brazil. All liquids (perfumes, creams, gels) must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Always check the specific airline's rules, as they may differ slightly.

Connecting Flights and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport. For international flights, passport and customs control are usually passed at the first airport of arrival in the country. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights, especially if the transfer is at a major airport, such as in São Paulo.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book tickets in advance and try to travel light to avoid excess baggage fees. In case of a flight delay, remain calm. Contact an airline representative for information. Brazil has strict regulations protecting passenger rights: depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for forced expenses.