Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport

Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport is the air gateway to João Pessoa, the easternmost point of the Americas and the capital of the sunny state of Paraíba in Brazil. For many travellers, this is where their acquaintance with the picturesque beaches, rich culture, and unhurried pace of life of this region begins. The airport, named in honour of a former state president, serves as a vital transport hub connecting Paraíba with the country's largest cities and opening its doors to international guests.

Since 2019, the airport has been managed by the Spanish company Aena, which is actively engaged in its modernization and development. Thanks to recent improvements, including the installation of new aerobridges, passenger comfort has increased significantly. The airport serves both domestic flights, connecting João Pessoa with metropolises such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, as well as international routes, including seasonal flights to Buenos Aires. Despite its international status, the airport is notable for its compactness and convenient navigation, allowing passengers to complete all necessary procedures quickly. Travellers have access to essential amenities: cafés, shops, and car rental services, making waiting for a flight or arriving in the city as comfortable as possible.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA).

• Official Website: www.aenabrasil.com.br. On the website, you will find the current flight schedule, information about services, and airport regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (83) 3232-1200.
• Airport Address: Aeroporto Internacional de João Pessoa - Presidente Castro Pinto, s/n - Aeroporto, Bayeux - PB, 58308-901, Brazil.
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: Follow the news of the management company Aena Brasil on Instagram (@aenabrasil) and other social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, contact the Lost and Found service (Achados e Perdidos) via email: achadoseperdidos.jpa@aenabrasil.com.br. For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage during a flight, please contact your airline representatives directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information desks are located within the terminal. You may also use the main information desk phone number for assistance.

Getting to Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA), which serves the city of João Pessoa, is quite simple, despite it being located in the neighbouring municipality of Bayeux, approximately 11 km from the city centre. Travellers have several transport options available, varying in cost, comfort, and travel time. The journey from the centre of João Pessoa to the airport usually takes 25 to 45 minutes depending on the chosen method and traffic conditions.

Public Transport: Bus

The most economical way to get to the airport is by city bus. Special routes connect the airport with the central bus station (Rodoviária) of João Pessoa, from where you can easily reach other districts of the city. This option is ideal for budget travellers without a large amount of luggage. The fare is minimal, however, the trip may take longer than by taxi, especially during peak hours. Please check the schedule and route number in advance, as they are subject to change.

Taxi, Transfer, and Ridesharing

For greater comfort and speed, you can use taxi services or ride-hailing apps such as Uber and 99, which are widely used in Brazil. This is the most convenient method, especially if you are travelling with family or multiple suitcases. Official taxi stands are located directly outside the arrivals terminal exit. Additionally, you can book a private transfer in advance, where a driver will meet you with a sign and take you directly to your hotel. The cost will be higher than the bus, but it ensures comfort and predictability.

Car Rental

If you plan to actively explore the state of Paraíba or neighbouring regions, renting a car is an excellent solution. Counters for several major rental companies are located within the airport building. Having your own transport gives you the freedom of movement to visit neighbouring cities, as well as reach other airports such as Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport in Recife or Aluízio Alves International Airport in Natal. It is recommended to book a car online in advance to guarantee the availability of your desired model and secure a better price.

Airport Parking

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. It offers both short-term and long-term vehicle storage options. The car park is located in immediate proximity to the terminal, making it convenient for departing passengers.

Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA) is distinguished by its compactness and convenient organization. It operates one modern passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, navigation through the airport is intuitive and presents no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The structure of the terminal is simple and logical. The building is divided into two main levels, which easily separates the flows of arriving and departing passengers. On the Ground Floor (Térreo), you will find flight check-in counters, the arrivals area, and baggage claim belts. The offices of car rental companies, ATMs, and exits to taxis and public transport are also located here.

The Upper Floor (Piso Superior) is entirely dedicated to departing passengers. After checking in on the ground floor, you proceed upstairs to undergo pre-flight security screening. Beyond the security zone lies a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates, Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls, and a food court where you can have a snack before your flight.

Passing through all formalities generally does not take much time. Due to the airport's small size and the efficient work of services, check-in and screening proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport according to standard practice: 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours for an international one, to complete all procedures without rushing. Navigation through the terminal is facilitated by clear signs in Portuguese and English, so getting lost here is practically impossible.

The history of Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA) begins in the mid-20th century. Officially, the air harbour was opened on August 20, 1957, becoming a key element of the transport infrastructure of the state of Paraíba. The airport received its name in honour of João Pereira de Castro Pinto, a former president (governor) of the state, highlighting its regional significance. Initially, the airport was a modest facility, but its opening laid the foundation for the future economic and tourism development of the city of João Pessoa.

A significant stage in the airport's development began in 1979 when it was transferred to the management of the state company Infraero. This event triggered a large-scale modernization. By 1983, a new, more spacious, and modern passenger terminal was commissioned, capable of serving the growing flow of passengers. This step was critically important for improving service quality and increasing the capacity of the state's air gateway.

Further improvements continued in subsequent decades. In 1995, the runway was widened and lengthened, allowing the airport to accept larger types of aircraft and expand its flight geography. The most extensive reconstruction took place between 2005 and 2007. During these works, the terminal area was significantly increased, new telescopic jet bridges were installed, check-in and baggage handling systems were modernized, and the entire infrastructure was updated, bringing the airport to a modern level of comfort and safety.

An interesting fact about the airport's history and geography is that, while serving the state capital João Pessoa, it is actually located within the territory of the neighbouring municipality—Bayeux. Today, Presidente Castro Pinto Airport is not just a transport hub but an important part of the region's history, reflecting its journey from humble beginnings to one of the attractive tourist destinations in northeastern Brazil.

Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Although the airport is not among the giant hubs, it is well-equipped to meet the needs of both local and international travellers setting off to explore the beauties of the state of Paraíba.

Within the terminal, you will find several cafés and snack bars where you can have a quick bite, drink a cup of famous Brazilian coffee, or have a full lunch. The shops feature an assortment of goods: from souvenirs and local delicacies to press and travel essentials. This is a great opportunity to buy last-minute gifts for loved ones.

For comfortable boarding waits, general lounges are provided, and VIP lounges may also be available, offering a more secluded atmosphere and additional services (it is recommended to check access conditions in advance). Passengers can stay connected thanks to free Wi-Fi, and numerous gadget charging stations will help ensure you don't end up with a drained phone before your flight.

Financial matters can be resolved directly at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical post operates in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport cares for passengers with special needs. Mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, and the terminal infrastructure, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, ensures a barrier-free environment.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located within a few minutes' drive. Basic business services may be available for business travellers, but for full conference facilities, it is better to contact nearby hotels.

At Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA), travellers can have a snack or a full meal before departure. While the selection of establishments is not as vast as in major hubs, everything necessary to spend time comfortably is available here. The main dining points are concentrated in the public area before security control.

In the main hall of the airport (landside), accessible to all visitors, you will find several cafés. Be sure to visit `Casa do Pão de Queijo` — a classic of Brazilian airports, where you can try fresh cheese buns (`pão de queijo`) and drink excellent coffee. Several other snack bars usually operate here as well, serving sandwiches and pastries. Expect a light snack, such as a cup of coffee and a few buns, to cost approximately 20–35 Brazilian Reais.

After passing through control, in the departure zone (airside), the choice is usually more limited. Typically, a small café or beverage counter operates here, where it is convenient to grab drinks or something light right before boarding. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

If you wish to experience the cuisine of Brazil right at the airport in João Pessoa, look for not only `pão de queijo` on the menu but also `coxinha` (hearty chicken croquettes) or a refreshing bowl of `açaí` berries. For a more substantial lunch in the public area, you can find cafés offering `prato feito` — a traditional set meal. Finding vegetarian options will not be a problem (cheese buns are a popular choice), but finding strictly vegan or gluten-free dishes may be difficult, so it is best to check the ingredients with the staff. Travellers requiring Halal options are advised to inquire about ingredients directly, though many vegetarian snacks are naturally suitable.

To ensure your journey through Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA) in the city of João Pessoa goes as smoothly as possible, it is worth considering a few tips. Plan your arrival at the airport in advance: for international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Brazil — 1.5–2 hours. This buffer time will allow you to complete all pre-flight formalities without rushing, especially during the tourist season or holidays.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24–48 hours before departure. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only. Security screening procedures at the airport are standard, but be prepared to present your passport and boarding pass. Keep all necessary documents close at hand to speed up the process.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the picturesque coast during takeoff and landing, whilst an aisle seat ensures more legroom and freedom of movement around the cabin. Regarding hand luggage, remember the standard restrictions: liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous items are prohibited. Be sure to check the weight and dimension limits for hand luggage with your airline.

If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. This is especially important when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one. Upon arrival from abroad, you will have to undergo passport and customs control. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your visit and declare goods if their value exceeds established limits.

To save money, weigh your luggage at home to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport. Prices for food and drinks in the departure zone are usually higher, so you can bring light snacks (non-liquid) and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security. Ordering a taxi or transfer via online apps is often more cost-effective than finding a car on the spot.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for current information. Monitor updates on the departure boards and in the carrier's app. In Brazil, regulations are in place whereby passengers are entitled to compensation in the form of drinks, meals, and in some cases, hotel accommodation for lengthy delays. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses so that you can request reimbursement later.