Chapeco Airport

Chapeco Airport. Source: Kupi.com AI

Chapecó Airport, officially known as Serafin Enoss Bertaso Airport (Aeroporto Serafin Enoss Bertaso), is not just a dot on the map of Brazil, but a key aerial gateway to the western region of the state of Santa Catarina. It plays a vital role in serving the city of Chapecó and the surrounding agricultural and industrial areas. Named in honour of a former mayor of the city, the airport has been an important transport hub for thousands of passengers travelling for business and leisure since 1978.

Despite its regional status, Chapecó Airport offers passengers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable journey. It primarily serves domestic flights, connecting the western part of Santa Catarina with major cities in Brazil, such as São Paulo and Florianópolis. The airport's infrastructure includes a single runway 2,060 metres in length, capable of accommodating medium-haul aircraft. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is an important starting point for exploring a region renowned for its agribusiness and strong European cultural heritage.

There are several ways to contact representatives of Chapecó Airport (XAP). Below are the main contact details for travellers.

• Official Website: You can find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website: voexap.com.br.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call the main airport number: +55 (49) 3321-7700.
• Airport Address: Acesso Florenal Ribeiro, 4535 D - Quedas do Palmital, Chapecó - SC, 89815-900, Brazil.
• Email: For general enquiries and suggestions, you can use the email: contato@voexap.com.br.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on official social media pages, such as Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you should contact your airline's representative first. For items left within the airport terminal, contact the Lost and Found service ("Achados e Perdidos") by phone: +55 (49) 3321-7718.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most queries, you can use the main telephone number or airport email address listed above.

Chapecó Airport (XAP) is located just 10 kilometres from the city centre, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose from several ways to reach the terminal, depending on their budget, time, and preferences. Regardless of your choice, the trip from Chapecó to the airport will not take long.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Special bus routes connect the central city bus station (Terminal Urbano) with the airport. Look for buses marked "Aeroporto". The trip usually takes about 30-40 minutes, and the ticket price is quite affordable — approximately 5-7 Brazilian Reais (BRL). This is a great way to save money, but please note that buses run on a schedule, which is worth checking in advance, especially if you have an early or late flight.

For greater comfort and speed, you can use taxis or ride-hailing services such as Uber or 99, which are widely used in Brazil. A car ride from the city centre to the airport will take just 15-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost usually varies from 30 to 50 BRL. This is the ideal choice if you are travelling with large luggage or in a group, as the predictability and convenience are often worth it.

If you plan to move actively around the region, renting a car would be a good solution. Counters for several rental companies are located directly inside the airport building, allowing you to pick up or drop off a car immediately before departure or upon arrival. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, paid parking is provided, offering both short-term and long-term rates.

Chapecó Airport (XAP) is a compact and modern regional airport serving the city of the same name and its surroundings in the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil. A key feature of the airport is its simple and clear structure: it consists of one passenger terminal that handles all domestic flights.

Thanks to its small size, navigating the terminal is intuitive. The terminal building is functionally divided into departure and arrival zones located in close proximity to each other. The Departure Zone includes airline check-in counters in the main hall. After check-in, passengers pass through security control and enter a small waiting lounge with several boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is on the same level and consists of a baggage claim hall with one or two baggage belts and an exit to the public area where passengers are met.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Chapecó Airport usually takes significantly less time than at major hub airports. Flight check-in and security screening generally proceed quickly, but it is still recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure to avoid rushing, especially during peak hours. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings, which significantly saves time and effort.

Despite its compactness, the terminal offers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait: several cafes where you can have a snack, small shops with souvenirs and travel goods, as well as car rental counters. The main tip for navigation: do not worry, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All infrastructure is located in one building, and the signs, although primarily in Portuguese, are easy to read thanks to the simple and logical layout.

The history of Chapecó Airport (XAP), officially bearing the name Serafin Enoss Bertaso (Aeroporto Serafin Enoss Bertaso), is a story of growth, resilience, and constant development. It was officially opened on 18 March 1978, replacing an old airfield and becoming the key aerial gateway for the entire western region of the state of Santa Catarina in Brazil.

One of the most tragic and pivotal moments in the airport's history occurred in 2016. The plane crash that claimed the lives of most of the Chapecoense football team shook not only Chapecó but the entire world. This event forever inscribed the name of the city and its airport into world history, making them a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of tragedy.

In the following years, the airport underwent a significant transformation. Responding to the growing needs of the region, a major reconstruction was carried out. A key stage was the modernization in 2019-2020, during which a new, more spacious, and modern passenger terminal was built. The runway was also expanded and improved, allowing for larger aircraft and increased passenger traffic.

Today, Chapecó Airport is not just a transport hub. It is an important economic engine for the region, ensuring connectivity with the country's major cities and promoting business and tourism development. It serves as a living reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for renewal, continuing to grow and serve its city and its residents.

Chapecó Airport (XAP), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers a necessary set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure the convenience and accessibility of all key services.

Dining and Shopping. The airport has several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat before departure, or enjoy coffee and soft drinks. There are also small shops offering souvenirs, press, and travel essentials.

Waiting Areas and Relaxation. General waiting halls with sufficient seating are available to all passengers. Information regarding the availability of VIP lounges or business lounges with enhanced comfort is best checked directly at the airport or with your airline, as their availability may vary.

Connectivity and Device Charging. Access to free Wi-Fi is usually provided within the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. You can also find power outlets and special charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets in the waiting halls.

Financial Services. For passenger convenience, ATMs are installed in the airport building where cash can be withdrawn. Currency exchange bureaus may be absent in regional airports in Brazil, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance.

Medical Assistance. A medical post operates at the airport to provide first aid if necessary.

For Passengers with Children and People of Determination. The airport is equipped for the comfortable stay of families with children — there are mother and child rooms. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, specially equipped toilets, and staff assistance during boarding and disembarking are provided.

Accommodation and Business Services. There are no hotels within the airport building itself, however, many accommodation options can be found nearby in the city of Chapecó. Dedicated conference rooms or business centres are generally not provided at the airport, as it focuses mainly on serving passenger flights.

Chapecó Airport (XAP), being an important regional transport hub in southern Brazil, offers passengers a compact but convenient selection of dining establishments. It is important to note that most cafes are concentrated in the main public area (landside), so it is better to have a meal before passing through security control and flight check-in.

The main establishment at the airport is a snack bar (lanchonete), for example, Voar Café. Here you can have a quick and satisfying snack before your flight. On the menu, you will find traditional Brazilian coffee, fresh juices, sandwiches, and various pastries. Be sure to try pão de queijo (cheese buns) — a hallmark of local cuisine. For a more substantial lunch, some cafes may offer a "prato feito" — a set meal usually consisting of rice, beans, meat or chicken, and a simple salad.

If you are in a hurry, a cup of aromatic coffee with a couple of cheese buns is the ideal choice. For those with more time, a hot sandwich or a set lunch would be suitable. Expect the following prices: a light snack with coffee will cost approximately 25–45 BRL, while a more filling "prato feito" will cost around 50–70 BRL. This allows you to experience simple and tasty Brazilian food without leaving the airport.

Finding specialised vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes at the airport can be difficult. However, fruit salads and juices are usually available in cafes, and you can also ask for a sandwich to be prepared without meat. The opening hours of establishments are generally synchronised with the flight schedule: they open shortly before the first departure and close after the last one departs.

Planning a trip through Chapecó Airport will be easier if you consider a few useful tips. By following these recommendations, you can make your journey more comfortable and avoid unnecessary hassle.

Arrival Time at the Airport: To avoid rushing, arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights within Brazil, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient for calm check-in, baggage drop, and passing through security control.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on the airline's website. Then you will only need to drop off your luggage at the dedicated counter. When passing through screening, remove laptops and other large gadgets, as well as your bag of liquids, from your hand luggage in advance to speed up the process.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: If you have the option to choose a seat, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views, especially if you are flying during the day. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. For extra legroom, choose seats at emergency exits (an additional fee may apply).

Hand Luggage Rules: Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. It is forbidden to take sharp objects, weapons, or flammable substances into the aircraft cabin. External batteries (power banks) are permitted only in hand luggage.

For Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the intermediate airport. Immediately upon arrival, find information on the board regarding the boarding gate for your next flight.

How to Save Time and Money: A pre-booked online transfer from the airport often costs less. Bring an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled at drinking fountains after the security zone. Light snacks brought from home will also help save on food at the airport.

If the Flight is Delayed: In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to find out about the flight status and any compensation due to you (meals, drinks). Use the free time to rest or work by connecting to the Wi-Fi at the airport.