Zona da Mata Regional Airport

Welcome to the main air gateway of the picturesque Zona da Mata region! This modern airport, officially named after President Itamar Franco, serves as a key link for travellers heading to the vibrant city of Juiz de Fora and the historic corners of the state of Minas Gerais. Built as a safer and higher-capacity alternative to the old city airfield, it welcomes guests with a spacious terminal and well-thought-out infrastructure. Here, surrounded by green Brazilian hills, begins your comfortable introduction to this colourful region.

Airport Features and Benefits

Zona da Mata Airport stands out among many regional aviation hubs for its modernity and technology. Opened in 2011, it was designed taking into account modern aviation requirements, allowing it to accommodate medium-haul liners (such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320), which could not land at the old airport within the city limits due to terrain constraints.

One of the main advantages is the high level of safety and weather resilience. Thanks to its favourable location and long runway (2,525 metres), IZA airport is less susceptible to fog and difficult weather conditions, which were frequent causes of flight cancellations at the former air harbour. This makes travel planning much more reliable.

Passengers also note the comfort and simplicity of the terminal. Despite the airport being located at a distance from the city, a calm atmosphere has been created inside, free from the hustle and bustle typical of megacities. Simple navigation, the availability of basic amenities, and the absence of long queues make passing through pre-flight formalities a quick and easy process.

• Official Website: voezonadamata.com.br
• Help Desk Phone: +55 (32) 3274-6200
• Address: Rodovia BR-040, S/N - Km 746, Goianá - MG, 36152-000, Brasil
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's pages on Instagram and Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For items lost within the terminal building, please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) service by phone at +55 (32) 3274-6200 (extension 204) or via email: operacoes.izaa@concessionariaaeroportos.com. If items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and support, you may use the main airport phone number or the contact form on the official website.

Zona da Mata Airport (IZA), serving the city of Juiz de Fora, is located at a significant distance from the centre — approximately 40 kilometres. Given this, it is worth planning your route in advance to avoid missing your flight. There are several ways to get to the air harbour, suitable for different budgets and preferences.

Public transport is mainly represented by special shuttle buses. This is the most budget-friendly option, and the cost of the trip is usually around 20–40 Brazilian Reals. Buses typically depart from the city's main bus terminal (Rodoviária) and run according to a schedule often coordinated with the flight map. The journey takes about 1–1.5 hours. It is strongly recommended to check the current schedule and exact fare on the carrier's website before travelling.

Taxi or private transfer is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from the centre of Juiz de Fora will take approximately 40–60 minutes depending on the traffic situation. You can use the services of official taxi companies or order a car through popular mobile apps. The cost of such a trip usually varies from 120 to 180 Brazilian Reals. Although this option is significantly more expensive than the bus, it ensures maximum convenience and saves time.

Car rental will be an excellent solution for those who value independence and plan to explore the surroundings. You can rent a car at one of the numerous offices in the city. The route to the airport via the BR-040 highway is well marked. For those arriving in their own vehicle, the airport provides paid parking with rates for both short-term and long-term stays.

To sum up, the choice of transport depends on your priorities. The bus is suitable for budget-conscious travellers, a taxi for those who value comfort, and a rental car for those for whom freedom of movement around Brazil is important. In any case, allocate sufficient time for the road in your schedule so that your journey begins without unnecessary stress.

Zona da Mata Airport (IZA), serving the city of Juiz de Fora and the surrounding region, is a modern and compact aviation hub. Its infrastructure is designed to provide passengers with maximum convenience and quick navigation.

The airport consists of a single passenger terminal that handles all flights — both departures and arrivals. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings. All necessary infrastructure is located under one roof, making the process of moving through the airport intuitively clear and fast.

Inside the terminal, the space is clearly divided into functional zones. The Departure Zone includes airline check-in counters and a security screening point. After passing control, passengers enter a small but comfortable waiting hall with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is located separately and is equipped with a baggage claim belt. Signs in Portuguese and English help you orient yourself easily.

Completing all formalities at Zona da Mata Airport usually takes little time. Due to the compactness of the terminal and the efficient work of the services, flight check-in and security screening rarely cause long delays. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight, to check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing.

A key feature of the terminal is its functionality and simplicity. There are no confusing corridors or multi-level transitions here, which is especially appreciated by travellers with children or bulky luggage. For navigation, it is sufficient to follow the signs, and the small number of boarding gates eliminates the possibility of getting lost. All main services — from check-in counters to the arrival hall — are within walking distance of each other.

Zona da Mata Airport (IATA: IZA), the full official name of which is President Itamar Franco Regional Airport of Zona da Mata, is a relatively new and modern air hub. Its history does not go back decades, as it was inaugurated on 23 August 2011. The main goal of its creation was to improve transport accessibility for the Zona da Mata region in the state of Minas Gerais and the city of Juiz de Fora.

The need for a new airport arose due to the limitations of the old Francisco Álvares de Assis Airport (Serrinha), which was located within the city limits and could not be expanded to accommodate larger aircraft. Construction of Zona da Mata Airport began in 2007. The new complex was designed from scratch and equipped with modern infrastructure, including a runway 2,525 metres long, allowing it to service liners such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. This became a key stage in the economic and tourism development of the entire region.

The airport received its name in honour of Itamar Franco, a former President of Brazil, who hailed from this region. An interesting fact: although the airport serves Juiz de Fora, physically it is located within the municipalities of Goianá and Rio Novo, approximately 35 km from the city centre. Such a location was chosen to ensure flight safety and the possibility of future expansion.

The main achievement in the airport's short history has been the successful replacement of the old airfield and the provision of reliable air connections for the region with the country's largest cities, such as São Paulo and Belo Horizonte. Since the airport was built quite recently, it has not yet undergone massive renovations. Its history is the story of a modern infrastructure project that, from its very first day of operation, has played an important role in the life of the entire region, contributing to its integration into the national transport network.

Zona da Mata Airport (IZA), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure convenience and accessibility for all categories of travellers.

For those wishing to have a snack before their flight, the airport has several cafes and snack bars where you can enjoy a coffee, eat a sandwich, or try local pastries. There are also small shops selling souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. The selection may not be as large as in international hubs, but you will find everything you need.

To stay connected, passengers can use the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. Special stands and power outlets are provided in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices.

Conditions have been created at the airport for the comfortable stay of passengers with special needs. The terminal is equipped with ramps, lifts, and adapted restrooms. Travellers with children can use the mother and child room for infant care. The main waiting halls are spacious and comfortable; however, there are generally no specialised VIP lounges in this regional airport.

For financial matters, ATMs are installed in the terminal where you can withdraw cash. Currency exchange points are absent here, as the airport mainly serves domestic flights. In case of need, there is a medical post in the airport building to provide first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but the nearest accommodation options can be found in the city of Juiz de Fora or neighbouring settlements, which are easily accessible by taxi or transfer. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are also not provided in the terminal building.

Zona da Mata Airport (IZA), serving the city of Juiz de Fora and the surrounding area, offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the choice of establishments here is not as vast as in large international hubs, you will be able to find everything necessary to refresh yourself while waiting for your flight.

The main food outlets are usually concentrated in the general hall of the airport, which is accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them (landside zone). Small cafes and snack bars are usually located here. After passing security control (in the airside zone), the choice may be more limited, often reduced to vending machines with drinks and snacks or a small kiosk, so it is better to have a substantial meal before check-in and screening.

Being in the state of Minas Gerais, be sure to take the opportunity to try local gastronomic hits. Look for the famous Brazilian cheese bread pão de queijo on the menu — it is an ideal snack with a cup of aromatic coffee. Cafes also often offer other popular snacks in Brazil, such as coxinha (tear-drop shaped chicken croquettes) and various pastries. For a more filling lunch, you can choose sandwiches or ready-made meals.

Prices at Zona da Mata Airport are moderate, although slightly higher than in city establishments, which is standard practice for airport terminals. The selection for passengers with special dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free dishes) may be limited, so it is better to check the ingredients with the staff or rely on fruits and beverages. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are usually tied to the flight schedule, guaranteeing service for passengers on both morning and evening flights.

Travelling through Zona da Mata Airport, serving the city of Juiz de Fora, can be a comfortable start or end to your trip if you prepare in advance. Here are a few tips to help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Arrive at the airport well in advance — at least 2 hours before the departure of domestic flights. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at check-in counters and during security screening.

Hand Luggage. Carefully study your airline's hand luggage rules. Standard regulations allow carrying liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Always keep valuables, documents, medicines, and portable chargers in your hand luggage. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, flammable liquids, and other dangerous substances.

Seat Selection. If the airline allows, choose your seat during booking or online check-in. Window seats will offer you beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats allow you to stand up freely without disturbing your neighbours.

Transfers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether your luggage will be checked through automatically or if you need to collect it and check it in again. For international flights, allow extra time for passport and customs control. Familiarise yourself with the customs regulations of Brazil to know which goods must be declared.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To avoid excess baggage fees, weigh your suitcases at home. Take an empty reusable water bottle with you — it can be filled after passing security screening. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to learn about your rights (provision of drinks, food, or accommodation). Follow updates on information screens and in the air carrier's app.