Montes Claros Airport

Montes Claros - Mário Ribeiro Airport (MOC) is the key aerial gateway to the northern region of the state of Minas Gerais. Since its opening, it has played a vital role in the city's economic and tourism sectors, providing connections to Brazil's largest metropolises. As an important transport hub for the industrial and business centre, the airport serves as a starting point for exploring the natural and cultural riches of this vibrant region.

Despite its modest size, Montes Claros Airport offers passengers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. A major renovation was carried out here, nearly doubling the terminal's capacity to 1.5 million passengers per year. The modern terminal is equipped with an air conditioning system, and parking is provided for the convenience of travellers with cars and motorcycles. Since 2022, the airport has been managed by the operator AENA, contributing to its further development and maintenance of its status as an important economic driver for all of northern Minas Gerais.

Below is the main contact information for Montes Claros Airport (MOC), which is managed by Aena Brasil.

• Official Website: You will find the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight schedules, services, and airport regulations on the official Aena Brasil website.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries and passenger support, you can call the airport operator at: +55 0800 727 4721.
• Airport Address: Praça Salgado Filho, s/n, Bairro Jaraguá, Montes Claros, MG, CEP: 39404-099, Brazil.
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the special contact form in the "Fale Conosco" (Contact Us) section on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the operator Aena Brasil on their official social media pages, such as Instagram and Facebook.
• Lost and Found Information: If your belongings were lost within the terminal, you should contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) section. Information can be found on the website or at the information desk at the airport. For issues regarding lost checked baggage, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: Assistance and consultation can be obtained at the information desk directly in the airport building or via the general information phone number.

Montes Claros Airport (MOC) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Montes Claros, making the journey there quick and simple. Travellers can choose from several ways to get to the terminal, depending on their budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. City buses run to the airport. The fare is usually very low, around 3-5 Brazilian Reais. Although this is the most economical method, it may require more time, especially during peak hours. It is recommended to check route numbers and current schedules in advance on local transport websites or at bus stops. This option is best suited for travellers without a large amount of luggage.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services, such as Uber, are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. A trip from the city centre usually takes about 15–25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of such a trip will be approximately 25–40 Brazilian Reais. While more expensive than the bus, the comfort and speed justify the price difference. You can book a car via a mobile app or find an official taxi at designated stands in the city.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the surroundings of Montes Claros and other regions of Brazil. Many international and local rental companies have offices both at the airport and in the city. When travelling to the airport by rental or private car, you can use the parking facilities. Short-term and long-term parking zones are available on the airport grounds, which is convenient if you are flying away for a few days.

Montes Claros Airport (MOC), also known as Mário Ribeiro Airport, is a compact and modern aviation hub with one passenger terminal. This building serves all domestic flights — both departures and arrivals — making navigation through it intuitively clear even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the main hall, where airline check-in counters and essential services are located. Departure and arrival zones are in the same building but functionally separated. After check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area leading to a small departure lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone includes baggage claim belts and an exit to the main hall, where you can meet arriving passengers or use taxi and car rental services.

Since the airport has only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place within a single space, significantly saving travellers time and energy.

Check-in and security procedures at Montes Claros airport usually proceed quickly thanks to its small size and efficient staff. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass security control, and enjoy a cup of coffee before the flight.

The main recommendation for navigation is not to worry. The airport is so compact that it is practically impossible to get lost. All important zones — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within a few minutes' walk of each other. Information boards and signs will help you orient yourself easily.

The history of Montes Claros Airport (MOC), also known as Mário Ribeiro Airport, begins in 1939, when it was officially founded. The air harbour received its first commercial flight a year later, in 1940. It was operated by Panair do Brasil, marking the beginning of regular air service in this region of Brazil. In the first decades of its existence, it was a small airfield serving primarily local needs.

A key stage in the airport's development occurred on 1 February 1980, when it came under the management of the state company Infraero. This event triggered a large-scale modernisation: a new passenger terminal was soon built, which remains the foundation of the airport's infrastructure today. The transfer to the control of a major national operator allowed for the standardisation of services and significantly improved flight safety levels.

Another important milestone in the airport's history was the renovation in 2004. During the works, the runway was extended from 1,700 to 2,100 metres. This improvement had strategic importance as it allowed the air harbour to receive larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737. As a result, the flight geography expanded significantly, and passenger traffic increased.

Since 2022, a new chapter in the airport's life has begun: following an auction, the Spanish company Aena won the rights to manage it for a 30-year term. This heralds further investments in terminal modernisation and improvement of passenger service quality. Interestingly, the airport bears the name of Mário Ribeiro — a renowned local doctor and politician who made a significant contribution to the development of the city and the state.

Montes Claros Airport (MOC) is a modern and compact aviation hub that offers passengers all essential services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the terminal is well-organised, making it easy to orient yourself and quickly find everything you need.

For those wishing to have a snack before departure, there are small cafés and snack bars in the airport where you can order Brazilian coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and soft drinks. There are also several shops offering souvenirs, press, and necessities. The selection here is not as large as in metropolises, but you can find all the essentials.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for passengers, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your plane. Special outlets and stations located in the waiting lounges are provided for charging electronic devices. As for VIP lounges, they are typically absent in an airport of this size, so for additional comfort, it is better to contact your airline representatives.

ATMs (Caixa Eletrônico) are installed in the airport building, where you can withdraw cash. However, currency exchange points may be absent or have limited operating hours here, so it is recommended to exchange money in the city in advance. In case of need, a medical post operates in the terminal to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with special needs: there are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking. To receive assistance, it is recommended to notify the airline of your needs 48 hours before departure. Families with small children can use the mother and child room for infant care.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but there are many accommodation options located in the immediate vicinity, a few minutes away by taxi. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent in the terminal, but such services are often provided by nearby hotels.

Montes Claros Airport (MOC) is a regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is not as wide as in major international hubs. Nevertheless, passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Most cafés and snack bars are located in the main public area of the terminal (landside), before passing security control.

The basis of gastronomic offers at the airport consists of small cafés (lanchonetes) and snack counters. Here you can enjoy snacks and drinks traditional to Brazil. Be sure to try the famous cheese bread pão de queijo with freshly brewed coffee or a glass of natural juice (suco). For a more substantial snack, you can choose sandwiches (sanduíches) or various pastries (salgados).

If you have time for a full meal, some cafés offer simple hot dishes. For a quick bite, coffee with pastries is the ideal choice. Regarding special dietary needs, finding specialised vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes may be difficult. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring their own snacks.

Prices in airport establishments are generally slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of most cafés and snack bars are tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first morning departure and finish work after the departure of the last evening flight. This ensures that you can have a snack at almost any time when there are passengers at the airport.

Travelling through Montes Claros Airport (MOC) will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. Here are some useful tips to help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary hassle.

Arrival time at the airport. Montes Claros Airport is not among the giant hubs; however, to avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient for a calm completion of all procedures.

Check-in and security control. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. At the airport, be ready to present your boarding pass and documents. During screening, laptops and other large electronics, as well as the bag with liquids, must be removed from hand luggage.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. Seats in emergency exit rows often offer more legroom but may require an extra fee.

Hand luggage. Standard international rules for carrying liquids apply in Brazil as well: containers up to 100 ml must be packed in one transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, or flammable substances in hand luggage. Always check the current rules on your airline's website.

Passengers with transfers. Montes Claros is primarily an airport for domestic flights. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Allow enough time between flights, especially if flying with different airlines.

Customs control. For flights within Brazil, there is no need to pass customs control. If you arrive in the country via a major international airport (for example, in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro) before a flight to Montes Claros, that is where you will pass all border and customs formalities.

Saving time and money. Book airline tickets and transfers from the airport in advance. Bring an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control. Light snacks brought from home will help save on food at the airport.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, contact the airline counter for information about your rights (provision of drinks, meals, or accommodation). Ensure that all important items — documents, money, chargers, and necessary medications — are in your hand luggage.