Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport

Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport is not merely an air gateway to Campos dos Goytacazes, but a vital transport hub connecting the northern part of the state of Rio de Janeiro with the rest of Brazil. It plays a key role in supporting the local economy, particularly the oil and gas industry, serving both regular commercial flights and helicopter transport to offshore platforms. For tourists, it is a convenient and quick starting point for exploring the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.

The key advantage of Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport is its compactness and efficiency. Passengers do not have to wander through huge halls or stand in long queues: flight check-in and security checks take minimum time here. Despite its modest size, the terminal offers basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait before departure, including a small café and car rental desks. Its strategic location makes it indispensable for business travellers and anyone wishing to reach this important industrial and cultural centre quickly and without hassle.

• Official Airport Website: bartolomeulisandro.com.br
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (22) 2733-5022
• Airport Address: Estrada Brejo Grande, s/n - Parque Aeroporto, Campos dos Goytacazes - RJ, 28093-000, Brazil
• Email: contato.aeroportodecampos@infra-aeroportos.com.br
• Social Media: Instagram / Facebook — @aeroportobartolomeulisandro
• Lost Luggage Information: It is recommended to contact the airport administration by phone at +55 (22) 2733-5022 or personally at the information desk in the terminal
• Passenger Support Contacts: +55 (22) 2733-5016 (Administration)

You can get to Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport (CAW) from the city centre of Campos dos Goytacazes in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport is located close to the city, so the journey will not take much time.

Public Transport. The most economical option is travelling by city buses. There are routes that pass near the airport or go directly to it. It is recommended to check the current schedule and route numbers on the websites of local transport companies in advance, as they may change. This method is excellent for travellers with light luggage.

Taxi and Transfer. The most convenient and fastest way to reach the terminal is to order a taxi or use ride-hailing apps popular in Brazil (for example, Uber). The trip from the city centre usually takes about 15–25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is a more expensive option compared to the bus, but it ensures comfort and delivery directly to the departure zone entrance. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which guarantees a fixed price and timely vehicle arrival.

Car Rental. If you plan to move around the region actively, renting a car will be an excellent solution. There are several car rental agencies operating in the city. By renting a car, you can not only drive to the airport comfortably but also freely explore the surroundings. It is recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during the tourist season, to get the best prices and choice of models.

Airport Parking. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, parking is provided. Options for both short-term and long-term parking are usually available. This is a convenient option if you are seeing someone off or leaving your car for the duration of your trip.

Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport (CAW) is a compact regional airport, so its structure is simple and intuitive for travellers. There is one passenger terminal operating here, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its small size, navigating through it causes no difficulties, and you are unlikely to get lost here.

The terminal is arranged logically: all necessary zones are combined in one building. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening zone, behind which lies a small waiting hall for departing flights. The arrivals area is also located here; it includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city. Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take minimum time, and there is no need for shuttles or long walks.

Passing through all pre-flight formalities at Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport usually happens very quickly. Due to low passenger traffic, queues for check-in and security are typically minimal. On average, all procedures take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before departure to go through all stages without haste and wait for your flight.

The history of Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport (CAW) is inextricably linked with the development of the entire northern region of the state of Rio de Janeiro. The airport was officially opened on 19 September 1952. Initially, it was built as a facility for the Air Force of Brazil and served as an auxiliary base, as well as a location for the Campos Aero Club. It received its name in honour of Bartolomeu Lisandro de Albernaz — a local politician and aviation pioneer who became the first resident of the city to obtain a pilot's licence.

A key moment in the airport's history was the discovery and development of oil and gas fields in the Campos Basin (Bacia de Campos) in the 1970s. This event radically changed its role. From a modest local airfield, it turned into a strategically important logistics hub for the oil industry. In 1980, management of the airport passed to the state company Infraero, which marked the beginning of a new era in its development, oriented towards serving the growing needs of the energy sector.

To meet the increased passenger and cargo flow, a large-scale reconstruction and modernisation of the airport was completed in 2008. Within the framework of the project, a new passenger terminal with an area of 4,000 m² and a new control tower were built, and the runway and apron were expanded. These improvements allowed for a significant increase in capacity and service levels. In subsequent years, the management of the airport passed from Infraero to the municipality, and then, in 2019, was transferred to a private concessionaire, opening new opportunities for its further development.

Today, Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport is not just the air gateway to the city of Campos dos Goytacazes, but also a crucial hub ensuring connection between the mainland and offshore oil platforms. A large part of its traffic consists of helicopter and aeroplane flights transporting personnel and cargo for oil and gas companies, which underscores its exceptional importance for the economy of the entire region.

Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport (CAW) is a regional aviation hub serving the city of Campos dos Goytacazes and its surroundings. Despite its modest size, it provides passengers with a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for a flight.

Dining and Shops. A small café or snack bar usually operates in the terminal, where you can have coffee, soft drinks, and a snack with sandwiches or pastries. The choice of shops is limited; typically, there is a small kiosk with newspapers, souvenirs, and travel goods.

Waiting Lounges and Wi-Fi. A general waiting hall is available for all passengers. Specialised VIP lounges or business lounges are generally absent at the airport. Passengers may access Wi-Fi, which might be provided for free for a limited time. There are power outlets for charging electronic devices in the waiting hall; however, their number may be limited, so it is recommended to have a portable charger with you.

Financial and Other Services. You can usually find an ATM in the airport building for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points are likely absent here, so it is worth taking care of money exchange in the city in advance. For emergencies, there is a medical post ready to provide first aid.

For Passengers with Special Needs. The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped toilets. Families with small children can use the mother and child room for changing and feeding. Airport staff are always ready to assist with boarding and disembarking from the aircraft.

Accommodation and Business Services. There are no hotels within the airport territory itself. The nearest accommodation options should be sought in the city of Campos dos Goytacazes, which is located a few kilometres from the terminal. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are not provided at the airport.

Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport (CAW) is a small regional airport serving the city of Campos dos Goytacazes. Dining options here are quite modest and are primarily designed for passengers who need a quick snack before departure. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants as found in major international hubs.

The main place where you can eat is a small café or snack bar (called a *lanchonete* in Brazil), located in the public area (landside), accessible to all visitors before passing security control. Since the airport has one compact terminal, finding it will not be difficult. Usually, the opening hours of such establishments are tied to the flight schedule: they open shortly before the first departure and close after the last aircraft leaves.

In the menu, you will most likely find classic Brazilian snacks that are perfect for a quick bite:

• Pão de queijo — famous cheese buns that go perfectly with coffee.
• Salgados — various savoury snacks, such as coxinha (chicken croquettes) or pastel (fried pastry with filling).
• Sanduíches — simple sandwiches.
• Coffee, fresh juices, and soft drinks.

For passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal diet), the choice will be extremely limited or non-existent. There are no specialised establishments in the airport, so if you have specific dietary needs, it is safer to bring food with you. As for prices, they are generally higher than the average in the city, which is standard practice for airports. If you plan to have a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to do so at one of the restaurants in the city of Campos dos Goytacazes before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport in the city of Campos dos Goytacazes goes as smoothly as possible, follow our tips. Simple planning will help avoid stress and save time for the pleasant moments of your trip around Brazil.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, which make up the majority of departures from this airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient for a calm check-in and security screening. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website — this will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security zone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security procedures here are standard. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids in hand luggage: all must be in containers of up to 100 ml and packed in one transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from your bag for separate scanning. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects and flammable substances in the cabin.

Seat Selection and Comfort In-flight. When checking in, try to choose a seat that suits your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats allow you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Seats at emergency exits usually offer more legroom but may have restrictions (for example, children cannot sit there).

Connections and Customs Control. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you need to collect your luggage at the intermediate point. Typically, on domestic flights within Brazil, luggage is checked through to the final destination. Customs control is only undergone by passengers arriving from other countries. If you are arriving on an international flight, be prepared to declare goods exceeding the established limits.

Economy and Contingencies. To save money, book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance via online services. Travelling with only hand luggage will also save both time and money. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline's counter first. Monitor information on the departure boards and do not hesitate to ask airport staff about your rights to drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation depending on the duration of the wait.