Crateus (Aeroporto De Crateus)

Aeroporto Regional de Crateús (Dr. Lúcio Lima) is a small but significant air hub, opening the gates to the heart of the Brazilian sertão (hinterland) in the state of Ceará. The airport serves as a vital link between the interior regions and the state capital, Fortaleza, providing comfort and speed for local residents and business travellers alike. The recently modernized terminal offers a cosy and tranquil atmosphere, radically different from the bustle of major international hubs, allowing you to begin your acquaintance with the region without unnecessary stress.

Airport Features and Advantages:

• Modern Facilities: Following recent reconstruction, the terminal has been updated: it is now fully air-conditioned and equipped with modern security screening equipment (X-ray scanners), ensuring a high level of safety and comfort.
• Night Flights: The airport is equipped with a runway night lighting system, allowing it to receive flights not only during daylight hours but also at night, increasing travel planning flexibility.
• Convenience for Business: Due to its proximity to the city centre (just a 5–10 minute drive), the airport is a strategically important node for entrepreneurs conducting business in the trade hub of the Inhamuns region.
• Panoramic Terrace: For those seeing off passengers or waiting for a flight, there is a special air-conditioned observation deck offering views of the runway and the surrounding landscapes.

• Official Airport Website: Superintendência de Obras Públicas (SOP) — the page of the managing government body (the terminal does not have its own website). It is recommended to check the current flight schedule on the Azul Conecta airline website.
• Information Desk Phone: The terminal's direct line operates intermittently. For general enquiries, please contact the SOP administration at +55 (85) 3108-2800. For specific flight questions, call the Azul call centre: 4003-1118 (within Brazil).
• Airport Address: Rodovia Estadual CE-187 (Estrada do Aeroporto), Bairro Campo Velho, Crateús — CE, 63700-000, Brasil.
• Email: There is no direct email for the terminal. Official enquiries can be sent via the feedback form on the Ceará State Government portal (Ceará Transparente).
• Airport Social Media: Official accounts are absent. News is published on the state government's social media channels (@governoceara).
• Lost & Found Information: There is no 24-hour Lost & Found service at the airport. If you have left items on board or your luggage has not arrived, immediately contact an Azul Conecta representative during disembarkation or via their customer support service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: On-site support is provided by airline staff only during check-in and flight arrival hours. At other times, the terminal may be closed to visitors.

Crateús Airport (JCS) is located approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre, in the Campo Velho district. Due to the city's compact nature and the terminal's proximity, the journey will not take much time. However, given the airport's regional status, the choice of transport options here is somewhat limited compared to major metropolises.

Taxis and Mototaxis

The most reliable and common way to get to the airport is by taxi. In Crateús, as in many cities in the Brazilian interior, motorcycle taxis (mototáxi) are also extremely popular.

• Taxi: Taxi ranks can be found in the city's central squares and at the bus station. It is recommended to agree on the fare in advance, as meters are not always used. The average cost of a trip from the centre to the airport is 20–30 BRL (Brazilian Reals).
• Mototaxi: This is a fast and budget-friendly option for passengers travelling light (with a backpack or small bag). Drivers in official service vests are easily recognisable. The trip will cost significantly less, approximately 8–12 BRL.
• Apps: Global services like Uber may operate intermittently or with long wait times in small cities in the region. It is better to have the phone number of a local taxi service handy or arrange a ride with a driver at your hotel.

Car Rental

International car rental desks are generally absent inside the terminal building or operate only upon prior request for flight arrivals. Rental points for local firms are more often located in Crateús city centre. If you plan to travel around the state of Ceará by car, it is recommended to book a vehicle in advance to be delivered for your flight.

The route from the centre is simple: follow highway CE-187 (Rodovia Senador Fausto Aguiar). The drive will take just 10–15 minutes depending on traffic.

Public Transport

There are no specialised express buses or rail links to the airport. Urban minibuses (van/topique) circulate around the city, but their routes and schedules may be inconvenient for tourists with luggage, and stopping on the highway would require a walk to the terminal. This option is not recommended for those visiting the region for the first time.

Parking

A small open-air car park is provided in front of the terminal. Typically, at such regional airports, parking is either free or costs a nominal fee. Spaces are usually available as passenger traffic is low.

Alternative Airports Nearby

Since Crateús receives a limited number of flights, travellers often use larger transport hubs, from where they reach the city by ground transport (bus or rental car). Here is a list of the nearest alternatives:

• São Benedito (Walfrido Salmito de Almeida) (131 km) — the nearest regional airfield.
• Teresina Airport (235 km) — a major airport in the neighbouring state of Piauí, offering more flight options.
• Jericoacoara (258 km) — a popular tourist hub on the coast, convenient if you are combining a business trip with a beach holiday.
• Orlando Bezerra de Menezes Airport (272 km) — an important airport in the south of Ceará state.
• Pinto Martins Airport (288 km) — the main international airport of the state in Fortaleza, from where comfortable intercity buses run to Crateús.

The infrastructure of the regional Crateús Airport is extremely simple and functional, which is typical for small aviation hubs in the Brazilian interior. The airport complex consists of a single one-storey passenger terminal. There are no confusing walkways or multi-level floors here, so navigation is intuitive even for those flying for the first time.

Terminal Layout and Navigation

The terminal building is divided into several small functional zones. Everything is within walking distance, and the passenger route is linear:

• Public Zone: Upon entering the terminal, you find yourself in the general hall, where the airline check-in counters (usually Azul Conecta) and the waiting area for well-wishers are located.
• Security Zone: Located immediately behind the check-in counters. Despite the airport's size, strict federal security standards are observed here: passengers pass through a metal detector frame, and carry-on luggage is checked by an X-ray scanner.
• Departure Lounge (Sala de Embarque): A small "sterile" area equipped with seats and air conditioning. Restrooms are located both in the general zone and in the departure zone.
• Arrival Zone: A separate entrance from the airfield leads to the baggage claim hall. Given the low passenger traffic and the use of small aircraft (Cessna Grand Caravan), luggage is often handed out manually by staff or placed on a short belt/stationary shelf.

Service Features and Transfers

Crateús Airport does not have jet bridges or buses to transport passengers to the aircraft. A feature of this terminal is boarding on foot:

• After the boarding announcement, passengers exit the terminal and walk to the aircraft across the apron (the distance is only a few dozen metres).
• This provides an opportunity to see the aircraft up close, but requires attentiveness and strict adherence to the instructions of ground staff.
• There is no transit zone for transfers inside the "sterile" area. If you have a connecting flight (which is unlikely, as flights are usually direct to Fortaleza), you will have to exit to the city side and check in again.

Processing Times

Thanks to the intimate atmosphere of the airport, pre-flight formalities take minimal time. Nevertheless, airlines ask passengers to observe standard timeframes:

• Check-in: Usually opens 1 hour before and closes 30–40 minutes prior to departure.
• Security Screening: The procedure takes 5–10 minutes. There are practically never any queues, as the maximum capacity of aircraft on this route is 9 passengers.
• Recommendation: Arriving at the airport 50–60 minutes before the departure time is quite sufficient for a calm passage through all procedures.

Advice for Passengers

There is a minimal set of amenities inside the terminal. There may not be ATMs, cafes, or pharmacies in the sense customary for large airports. It is recommended to arrange cash, water, and snacks in advance, while still in the city. Free Wi-Fi is available in the waiting lounge, but connection speeds may be limited.

The history of Crateús Airport (officially Aeroporto Dr. Lúcio Lima) is a chronicle of the development of transport accessibility in the Brazilian interior. For decades, this airfield was a modest airstrip serving primarily private light aircraft, government delegations, and emergency medical flights. For the residents of the sertão region, it long remained a symbol of potential opportunity rather than a real transport hub.

The Era of Modernization

Radical changes arrived at the turn of the 2020s. The Government of the State of Ceará, implementing a regional aviation expansion programme, invested significant funds in the reconstruction of the facility. The airport underwent a major upgrade to meet the strict standards of the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). Key stages of modernization included:

• Renovation and expansion of the passenger terminal for comfortable flight waiting.
• Restoration of the asphalt surface of the runway and taxiways.
• Installation of a night lighting system (balizamento noturno), allowing the airport to receive aircraft 24 hours a day — a critically important factor for air ambulance services.

Return to the Flight Map

The main historical event of recent years was the resumption of regular commercial transport. A landmark date for the city is considered to be November 2022, when the airline Azul Conecta launched permanent flights connecting Crateús with the state capital, Fortaleza. This event became a real celebration for local residents, reducing travel time from a tiring 5–6 hours by bus to a comfortable one-hour flight.

Interesting Facts

The airport bears the name of Dr. Lúcio Lima, a prominent public figure in the region. Curiously, despite its status as a regional airport with low passenger traffic, it plays a strategic role in the state's healthcare system: the ability to handle night landings has made it a key hub for transporting critically ill patients from remote areas to clinics in the capital.

The infrastructure of Crateús Airport (JCS) corresponds to its status as a compact regional terminal. You will not find the scale of capital city hubs with endless rows of shops and food courts here. Services and amenities are reduced to the necessary minimum, ensuring basic comfort before a short flight. The main advantage of the airport is the absence of queues and a calm, almost home-like atmosphere.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

Due to the low passenger traffic, the terminal lacks a full-scale dining area and Duty Free shops.

• Dining: A small kiosk or snack bar may operate in the waiting lounge with a basic selection: coffee, soft drinks, water, and light snacks (biscuits, crisps, chocolate). However, its opening hours do not always coincide with the flight schedule.
• Recommendation: We strongly recommend having a substantial meal in the city before departure. If you are travelling with children or following a specific diet, be sure to bring food and water with you.
• Shopping: Souvenir shops and newsstands are absent in the terminal.

Lounges and VIP Services

The airport has one general departure waiting hall (Sala de Embarque). There is no provision for separate service classes, business lounges, or VIP lounges here. The waiting area is equipped with standard seats, air conditioning, and is located in immediate proximity to the boarding gate.

Connectivity and Electronics

• Wi-Fi: Free access to wireless internet is provided in the terminal. The network is usually open, but speeds may be limited, suitable for messaging apps and checking email, but not for streaming video.
• Charging Stations: There are no specialised stands for charging gadgets. However, several standard electrical sockets can be found in the waiting hall (voltage in the state of Ceará is 220V). It is recommended to charge devices in advance or carry a power bank.

Financial Services

There are no currency exchange points or bank branches in the terminal building. The availability of an ATM (Caixa Eletrônico) is inconsistent and depends on current agreements with banks. To avoid inconvenience, ensure you have Brazilian Real (BRL) cash for taxi payments or small expenses before arriving at the airport. The nearest reliable banks are located in Crateús city centre.

Medical Services

There is no pharmacy or stationary medical point with a doctor at the airport. Airport and airline staff are trained in first aid skills and have access to a first aid kit for emergency situations. In case of serious health issues, the city ambulance service is called (arrival time from the city is minimal).

Services for Passengers with Children

Infrastructure for young travellers is limited:

• Restrooms typically include fold-down changing tables.
• Playrooms are absent.
• Thanks to the very quick check-in and security processes, children do not have to languish in waiting for long.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

Despite its small size, the airport is adapted for citizens with reduced mobility in accordance with Brazilian legislation:

• The terminal building is single-storey, entrances are equipped with ramps, and there are no thresholds.
• Specially equipped restrooms are available.
• Boarding: Since there are no jet bridges and boarding is done on foot across the apron, airline staff provide full assistance when boarding the aircraft (portable ramps or staff assistance are used, as Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft have low clearance). Be sure to notify the airline of the need for assistance 48 hours before departure.

Hotels and Accommodation

There are no hotels or capsule hotels on the airport territory itself. Since the airport is located just 5 km from the centre of Crateús, passengers can comfortably stay in city hotels and pousadas (guest houses). The taxi journey to most accommodation options will take no more than 10–15 minutes.

Business Services

Conference rooms, business centres, printing, or fax services are absent in the terminal. For holding business meetings or working with documents, it is recommended to use the infrastructure of hotels in the city centre.

The gastronomic infrastructure of Crateús Airport (JCS) reflects its format as a small regional air hub. Passengers should note that there is no food court with chain restaurants and cafes, which are customary for large airports. The choice of dining places is extremely limited, so planning a full lunch or dinner here is not recommended.

Cafes and Fast Food Points

In the single passenger terminal, typically one small retail point functions (in the format of a kiosk or snack bar). It is located in the public zone (landside), before passing pre-flight security.

• Assortment: Here you can purchase a basic set of products for the journey: bottled water, fizzy drinks, juices, coffee (usually filter coffee or espresso), as well as packaged snacks (crisps, biscuits, chocolate).
• Hot Food: A full kitchen is absent. Depending on suppliers, reheated sandwiches or traditional Brazilian pastries may be available, but one should not count on this as a guaranteed option.
• Halal/Dietary Note: Please be aware that specific Halal-certified options are generally not available.

Local Flavour: What to Try

Despite the modest selection, if the kiosk is open, you may have a chance to snack on popular Brazilian savoury bites — salgados. These are various pastries with fillings, which are an integral part of the snacking culture in the country.

• Coxinha: A teardrop-shaped dough croquette filled with shredded chicken, deep-fried.
• Pão de queijo: Famous cheese buns made from cassava flour. If they are available fresh and warm, this is an excellent option for breakfast with a cup of coffee.

Dietary Food (Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free)

Specialised options for passengers with specific dietary needs are not provided in the terminal.

• Vegetarians: May find crisps, nuts, or chocolate. Fresh fruits or salads are not for sale.
• Gluten-Free and Halal: Guaranteed safe products in these categories are not presented. Passengers with a strict diet or allergies are strongly recommended to bring food with them.

Prices and Opening Hours

Pricing at the airport is slightly higher than in the city but remains within reasonable limits for a regional level.

• Average Bill: A light snack (coffee + snack) will cost approximately 15–25 BRL.
• Opening Hours: The kiosk's schedule is not fixed and usually adapts to the flight schedule of Azul Conecta. The point opens shortly before check-in begins and may close immediately after the aircraft departs. On days when there are no flights, the terminal and buffet may be closed.

Recommendations for Passengers

Given the airport's proximity to the city (just 5 km), the best strategy is to eat before arriving at the terminal.

• For a Full Meal: We recommend visiting restaurants in the centre of Crateús. The city has good "churrascarias" (steakhouses) and self-service establishments where you can have a substantial and inexpensive meal before a short flight.
• For a Quick Snack: If you didn't have time to eat in the city, buy water and sandwiches at a supermarket or bakery on the way to the airport. This guarantees you won't go hungry if the kiosk in the terminal turns out to be closed.

Travelling through the regional Crateús Airport (JCS) differs significantly from the experience of flying through major international hubs. An intimate atmosphere prevails here, and flights are operated on small general aviation aircraft. To ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared a number of practical recommendations considering the specifics of this air harbour.

Optimal Arrival Time

Unlike large airports, there is no need to arrive 2–3 hours early here. However, one should not be late either, as counters close strictly according to schedule.

• Recommended Time: Arrive at the airport 1 hour before departure. This time is quite sufficient to calmly pass check-in and security without unnecessary haste.
• Risks of Lateness: The check-in counter usually closes 30–40 minutes before departure. Since the staff is few in number and performs multiple functions (check-in, boarding, luggage unloading), after the counter closes, employees may move to the airfield, and checking in will be impossible.

Check-in and Pre-flight Screening

Procedures in Crateús are quick but require the correct documents.

• Documents: Be sure to carry photo identification (passport). Electronic boarding passes on a smartphone are accepted, but experienced travellers advise having a printed copy or a saved PDF file, as the internet in the terminal area may work intermittently.
• Screening: The procedure is standard. You will be asked to remove metal objects and pass through a frame. Liquids in hand luggage are permitted in accordance with standard norms (containers up to 100 ml in a transparent bag), although controls on liquids on domestic flights can sometimes be softer, it is better not to risk it.

Luggage and Hand Luggage Features

This is the most important point for passengers flying from Crateús. Flights are served by Azul Conecta on Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft. These are compact aircraft where space is limited.

• Hand Luggage: Standard wheeled suitcases (even Cabin Size) will not fit in the cabin and will not go into the overhead bin (which may not exist). You are only allowed to take small backpacks, ladies' handbags, or briefcases into the cabin, which can be placed under the seat or on your lap.
• Gate Check: If you have a carry-on size suitcase, it will be collected free of charge at the aircraft steps and placed in the luggage compartment, and returned immediately upon exit upon arrival. Remove valuables, documents, electronics, and batteries from the bag in advance.
• Luggage Weight: Strictly observe weight limits (usually 10 kg for hand luggage and 23 kg for checked luggage), as balance is critical for small aircraft.

Seat Selection and Flight

A flight on a Cessna Grand Caravan is more of an aerial excursion than just moving from point A to point B. The plane flies at a lower altitude than liners (about 3,000 metres), which provides stunning views.

• Configuration: The seating scheme is usually 1+1 or 1+2. In any case, every passenger will have an excellent view.
• Seat Allocation: Often in such aircraft, there is no fixed seating at check-in. The pilot or ground staff may ask you to take a specific seat for the correct centering (weight distribution) of the aircraft. Please treat this with understanding.
• Noise and Sensations: In a small turboprop aircraft, the noise level is higher than in jets. If you are sensitive to sounds, bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. Turbulence is also felt more distinctly here.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers

Most flights from Crateús go to Fortaleza. If you have a transfer to another flight planned there:

• Allow Time: Plan a connection of at least 2–3 hours. In Fortaleza, you will likely have to collect your luggage, exit to the public zone, and pass check-in and security again for the next flight, as through-transfer of luggage from Conecta flights to large liners is not always guaranteed (clarify this at the counter in Crateús).
• Single Ticket: Try to buy tickets in a single booking. In case of a departure delay from Crateús due to weather, the airline will rebook you on the next flight for free. With separate tickets, the risks lie with you.

Tips for Economy and Comfort

• Transport Savings: To travel to the airport, use local motorcycle taxi services — this is the cheapest and fastest way if you have few belongings.
• Dining: Have a substantial snack in the city. The assortment at the airport is minimal, and on board during the short flight, only water and possibly a small pack of snacks will be offered.
• Restroom: Be sure to visit the restroom in the terminal before boarding. In Cessna-type aircraft, a toilet is either absent or extremely cramped and intended only for emergency cases.

Actions in Case of Flight Delay

Weather in the region can be unpredictable, especially in the rainy season, which affects small aviation departures.

• Communication: Install the airline's mobile app to track flight status in real-time.
• Waiting: If the flight is delayed for a long time, do not sit in the terminal. Since the city is only 5 km away, it is more sensible to return to the hotel or wait in a cafe in the centre of Crateús, having previously agreed this with an airline representative.
• Assistance: Contact Azul staff at the check-in counter. In case of flight cancellation, they are obliged to provide rebooking options or, in rare cases, ground transfer (bus) to Fortaleza if the weather is unflyable.