Pinto Martins Airport

Welcome to Pinto Martins International Airport — the main aerial gateway to the sunny state of Ceará and the vibrant city of Fortaleza. Located in the northeast of Brazil, this airport serves as a vital transport hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting South America with Europe and North America. Following recent modernisation under the management of Fraport Brasil, the airport offers travellers contemporary service and a comfortable atmosphere to begin an unforgettable holiday on Fortaleza's famous beaches.

Pinto Martins Airport boasts modern infrastructure designed to make your stay as convenient as possible. Following extensive reconstruction, a new, spacious terminal was unveiled, and the runway was expanded to accommodate a greater number of flights. For business aviation passengers, a separate JET FOR complex with VIP service is available, highlighting the airport's high status.

One of the key advantages is its close proximity to the city centre — just 6 kilometres away, allowing for quick access to hotels and major tourist districts. The airport serves as a hub for Gol airlines and is a strategically important city for LATAM Brasil, ensuring excellent connectivity with other regions of Brazil. Inside the terminal, you will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait: shops, cafes, restaurants, and relaxation zones that meet international standards.

For current information regarding flights, services, and regulations at Pinto Martins Airport, you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: fortaleza-airport.com.br
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (85) 3392-1200
• Address: Av. Senador Carlos Jereissati, 3000 - Serrinha, Fortaleza - CE, 60741-900, Brasil
• Email (Ombudsman): ouvidoria.for@fraport-brasil.com
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on its official pages on Instagram (@fortalezaairport) and Facebook.
• Lost and Found (Achados e Perdidos): If you have lost items within the terminal, please contact the service at +55 (85) 3392-1025 or via email at achadoseperdidos.for@fraport-brasil.com. For luggage lost during a flight, you should contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support: For general inquiries, you may call the main airport number. For issues related to flight tickets, check-in, or specific flight requirements, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.

Travelling to Pinto Martins International Airport (FOR) from the centre of Fortaleza, or conversely from the airport to the city, can be done in several ways suitable for any budget and travel style. The airport is located just 11 km from the central Praia de Iracema district, making the journey quick and convenient.

The most budget-friendly method is city buses. Several routes connect the airport with different parts of the city, including the bus terminal and tourist zones. The trip will take between 40 to 60 minutes depending on the route and traffic conditions. Another modern and convenient public transport option is the VLT (Veículo Leve sobre Trilhos), a light rail system. The Parangaba-Mucuripe line runs near the airport (Aeroporto station), offering a comfortable journey with predictable travel times.

For those who value comfort and speed, the optimal choice is a taxi or transfer. Official taxi stands are located directly at the arrivals terminal. A trip to the city centre will take approximately 20-30 minutes and will cost more than public transport, but it ensures maximum convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage. Ride-hailing apps (such as Uber) are also popular in Brazil and can offer competitive prices.

If you plan to actively travel around the state of Ceará, consider renting a car. Offices of both local and international rental companies are present at Pinto Martins Airport. This gives you the freedom to explore famous beaches and dunes at your own pace. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, convenient parking is available with options for short-term and long-term stays.

Fortaleza Airport is the main transport hub of the region; however, for travel to some remote towns, other airfields may be more convenient. Among them are Jericoacoara airport for trips to the famous resort of the same name, as well as regional airports such as Dix-sept Rosado in Mossoró or São Benedito for journeys into the interior of the country.

Pinto Martins Airport in the city of Fortaleza, following extensive modernisation, presents a unified modern passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights. All operations have been consolidated under one roof, significantly simplifying logistics for travellers. You will not need to worry about moving between different buildings — all key zones are within walking distance of each other.

The terminal structure is intuitive. The Arrivals Zone is located on the ground floor: here you will find baggage reclaim belts, customs control for international arrivals, as well as car rental counters and the meet-and-greet area. The Departures Zone is organised on the first floor. It includes airline check-in counters, security screening and passport control points, as well as the main departure lounge with boarding gates.

Navigating the airport is straightforward thanks to numerous signs in Portuguese and English, as well as electronic boards with up-to-date flight information. To go through all formalities calmly, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. During peak seasons, such as during Carnival, it is better to allow extra time due to potential queues.

Inside the terminal, passengers have access to everything needed for a comfortable wait: Duty Free shops, a variety of cafes and restaurants in the food court, pharmacies, ATMs, and currency exchange points. For those wishing to rest in a quieter environment, business lounges are available. The thoughtful layout and centralised services make the airport a convenient and clear starting point for travel across the northeast of Brazil.

The history of Fortaleza airport begins in the 1930s with the construction of an airfield named Alto da Balança. It received its official name, Pinto Martins, in 1952 in honour of Euclides Pinto Martins — a renowned aviator from the state of Ceará, who was one of the pioneers of transatlantic aviation and completed a landmark flight from Rio de Janeiro to New York.

An important milestone in the airport's development was the Second World War. Thanks to its strategic location on the Atlantic coast, it served as a vital airbase for Allied forces. After the war, its role shifted towards civil aviation, and in 1966, the first passenger terminal was opened, serving flights within Brazil and abroad.

By the end of the 20th century, it became obvious that the airport required serious expansion. In 1998, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out, and a new passenger terminal with an area of 38,000 square metres was opened. This significantly increased capacity and offered passengers a higher level of comfort, preparing the airport for the demands of the new millennium.

The most modern stage of development began in 2018, when airport management was transferred to the German company Fraport AG. This launched the largest modernisation in its history: the runway was extended, the terminal area more than doubled, and the entire infrastructure was completely renewed. The works, completed in 2020, transformed Pinto Martins into one of the most modern and efficient airports in the country, capable of welcoming millions of tourists from around the world.

Pinto Martins Airport (FOR) offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need here.

For those who are hungry or wish to shop, the terminal features numerous restaurants, cafes, and snack bars, offering both Brazilian cuisine and familiar international options. Shops include a Duty Free zone featuring perfumes, confectionery, and souvenirs, as well as outlets selling travel essentials and local delicacies.

Staying connected is easy: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous sockets and special stations are provided for charging gadgets. For financial matters, ATMs, bank branches, and currency exchange points are at your service.

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, VIP lounges are available. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy snacks and beverages, and utilise work areas. This is an excellent option for those travelling in business class or simply wishing to avoid the bustle of the general waiting hall.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs. Escort services are provided, and there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. Families with children will appreciate the mother and child rooms, where you can feed and change your baby in a calm environment. In case of illness, you can visit the 24-hour medical centre.

If you need to rest between flights or hold a business meeting, several hotels are located near the airport, many of which offer transfers. For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres may also be available for meetings and negotiations.

At Fortaleza's Pinto Martins International Airport (FOR), travellers will find plenty of options for a snack or a full meal to wait for their flight in comfort. Dining establishments are located both in the public area, accessible to all visitors, and in the secure airside zone after passport control and security screening.

For those in a hurry, numerous coffee shops and fast-food outlets are ideal. You can order traditional Brazilian coffee, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and the famous cheese buns known as pão de queijo. These establishments typically operate around the clock or from early morning until late at night, adapting to flight schedules. Most are located in the departures zone, but there are also several cafes in the public area.

If you have enough time, you can visit one of the restaurants offering a more substantial menu. Here you can try local dishes, for example, something with carne de sol (sun-dried beef) or fresh seafood. Some establishments offer buffet formats or set meals. Prices in airport restaurants are generally higher than average for the city, but the quality of service and food is at a good standard.

Most restaurants and cafes have vegetarian dishes on the menu. However, if you follow a vegan, gluten-free, or other strict diet, it is recommended to clarify the ingredients with the staff in advance. Generally, the selection in the departures zone (airside) is more diverse than in the public area (landside), so it is better to plan your main meal after completing all pre-flight formalities. For travellers seeking Halal-friendly options, seafood and vegetarian choices are widely available.

To ensure your journey through Pinto Martins Airport runs smoothly, use these proven tips. A thoughtful approach to details will help avoid stress and save time to enjoy your holiday in sunny Fortaleza.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international flights. To save time, complete online check-in, which usually opens 24-48 hours before departure. This allows you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security zone.

Passing Control and Seat Selection: Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. When going through security, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics, as well as containers with liquids, from your hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, whilst an aisle seat provides more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily.

Hand Luggage and Customs: Remember the standard restrictions on carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited in hand luggage. Power banks and batteries must be carried on your person, not checked in. Upon arriving in Brazil from another country, be prepared to complete a customs declaration (usually electronic) and for potential baggage inspection.

Transit Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, follow the signs for "Transit" or "Conexão". Check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again, especially when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one. Sometimes it is necessary to pass passport control and customs at the first airport of arrival.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. Use this time to explore the shops, relax in a cafe, or use the free Wi-Fi at the airport.