Novo Hamburgo Airport

• Official Airport Website: www.aeroclubenh.com.br (The airport is managed by the Aeroclube de Novo Hamburgo, so all information is hosted on their resource).
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (51) 3595-3580.
• Airport Address: Rua Ana Terra, 10 - Canudos, Novo Hamburgo - RS, 93544-410, Brazil.
• Email: aeroclubenh@aeroclubenh.com.br (for general inquiries and administration).
• Airport Social Media: The latest news and air show announcements are published on the official "Aeroclube de Novo Hamburgo" pages on Facebook and Instagram.
• Lost & Found Information: As the airport is a general aviation facility and does not have a large passenger terminal, there is no dedicated "Lost & Found" service. For forgotten items, please contact the administration building directly via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support for private pilots and airfield guests is provided through the flying club secretariat during working hours (usually from 08:00 to 18:00).

Since Novo Hamburgo Airport is a general aviation facility and does not accept scheduled commercial flights from major airlines, there are no airport express trains or large bus terminals typical of metropolises. Reaching the flying club is quite quick and simple using the urban infrastructure of the Canudos district.

Taxi and Transfer

This is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport from anywhere in the city or from the metro station. In Brazil, and specifically in Novo Hamburgo, mobile taxi apps are very popular.

• Apps: Uber and 99 (a local equivalent) work reliably. This is often cheaper and more reliable than hailing a car on the street.
• Regular Taxi: Taxi ranks (Ponto de Táxi) can be found in the city centre and at major shopping malls.
• Cost and Time: A trip from the city centre (Centro) to the airport will take about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. The estimated cost of a trip via Uber is between 15 and 25 Brazilian Reais (BRL).

Public Transport

It is possible to get right to the entrance of the flying club by public transport, but this will require transfers if you are travelling from another city.

• Metro (Trensurb): If you are travelling from Porto Alegre, you need to take the surface metro (Line 1) to the final station, Estação Novo Hamburgo. The journey from the state capital will take about 50 minutes. The station is located in the city centre, approximately 5–6 km from the airfield.
• Bus: Municipal buses run from the city centre or the terminal near the metro station to the Canudos district (Bairro Canudos). Look for routes passing along Rua Bartolomeu de Gusmão, which is close to the flying club. A city bus ticket costs around 5 BRL. Be prepared for schedules to change, and buses run less frequently on weekends.

Car Rental

There are no international car rental counters within the flying club itself. If you plan to rent a car, it is best to do so in the centre of Novo Hamburgo or upon arrival at the main international airport of the state. The drive to the airfield by private transport is simple: follow signs for the Canudos district. Key landmarks are Rua Guia Lopes and Avenida dos Municípios.

Parking

Parking spaces are provided on the flying club grounds for visitors, pilots, and event participants. Unlike large commercial airports, parking here is usually located in the immediate vicinity of the administrative buildings and hangars. During air shows or major events, spaces may be limited, so it is recommended to arrive early.

Alternative Airports for Tourists

It is important to remember that if you plan to fly into the region on a regular passenger flight, you should choose one of the major neighbouring air hubs and then travel to Novo Hamburgo by ground transport.

The nearest and most convenient option is Salgado Filho Airport in Porto Alegre. It is located just 34 km away and handles numerous international and domestic flights. From there, you can reach Novo Hamburgo by metro (Trensurb), rental car, or taxi in approximately 40-50 minutes.

Another option, located in the mountain region (Serra Gaúcha), is Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport in the city of Caxias do Sul (about 56 km away). For travellers heading from the north of the state, Passo Fundo Airport may be suitable, although it is significantly further away — more than 200 km.

Structure and Terminals: General Aviation Features

It is important to understand that Novo Hamburgo Airport (QHV) differs radically from standard passenger air hubs. There are no multi-storey terminals, confusing walkways, jet bridges, or duty-free zones here. The entire airport complex is a compact area focused on private aviation and pilot training.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

In effect, the airport possesses one main administrative building (the flying club headquarters) and a complex of hangars. The concept of a "terminal" is nominal here.

• Main Building: This houses the flying club administration, classrooms for future pilots, a reception area, and a small lounge area for guests and club members. This is the only place where visitors arrive.
• Hangars: Located around the main building and along the apron are hangars for storing and servicing private aircraft. Access there is usually permitted only when accompanied by staff or pilots.

Layout and Navigation

Navigation at Novo Hamburgo Airport is extremely simple and intuitive. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

• Entrance: Entering the grounds through the main gates from Rua Ana Terra, you immediately find yourself in front of the main flying club building and the car park.
• Waiting Area: Inside the building is a common area where passengers of private flights or students wait for departure. A friendly club atmosphere often prevails here.
• Access to Aircraft: Access to the airfield is directly from the building or via side passages, always under the supervision of staff, as pedestrian routes cross aircraft taxiing zones.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Unlike commercial airports, there is no separation into "airside" and "landside" zones with passport control and customs (as the airport does not have international status for scheduled flights).

• Departure: The departure process consists of meeting your pilot in the flying club lobby. After a brief briefing, you proceed together to the aircraft.
• Arrival: After landing, the aircraft taxis to the parking stand near the main building. Passengers disembark and find themselves in the car park or lounge area within a minute.

Processing Times

A huge advantage of Novo Hamburgo Airport is the absence of queues.

• Check-in and Screening: There is no classic flight check-in or pre-flight security screening with metal detector gates here. Document and luggage checks (if required) are carried out personally by the aircraft captain before boarding.
• Speed: You can arrive at the airport just 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This is enough time to greet the pilot, discuss the route, and load your belongings.

Navigation Recommendations and Tips

Since the airfield is an active training centre, tourists should observe a few simple rules:

1. Safety First: Never walk onto the runway or apron unaccompanied. This is a zone of active propeller aircraft movement.
2. Watching Flights: If you have come simply to watch the planes or are waiting for someone, check with the receptionist where the safe viewing area is located. Usually, the flying club terrace offers an excellent view of take-offs and landings.
3. Amenities: The main building has restrooms and vending machines or a small buffet (it is better to check the availability of hot food in advance, as the café's opening hours may depend on events being held).

The history of Novo Hamburgo Airport is an inspiring chronicle of how a dream of the skies united the residents of an industrial city. Unlike state transport hubs, this airfield emerged and developed thanks to private initiative, the enthusiasm of volunteers, and a love for aviation, becoming the true heart of Brazil's "Shoe Capital".

Foundation: A Dream Become Reality

The official starting point in the city's aviation history is considered to be 30 August 1947. It was on this day that the Aeroclube de Novo Hamburgo was founded. In the post-war years, Brazil experienced a real boom in general aviation, and local entrepreneurs understood: for the city to develop, it needed wings. Initially, the infrastructure was modest: a dirt runway amidst fields and simple wooden hangars built by the club members themselves.

A Training Ground for Brazilian Aviation

In the 1950s and 1960s, the airfield gained fame as one of the best flight schools in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. This was the "golden era" of flying clubs, which served as the only path into the profession for future airline pilots. Hundreds of aviators who began their first flights here on light training aircraft subsequently became captains in legendary airlines such as Varig and Cruzeiro. The airport grew with the city, and the Canudos district gradually transformed from rural outskirts into a bustling urban zone around the airfield.

Evolution and Modernisation

For a long time, the airport retained its historic appearance with a grass runway, which gave it a special charm but limited operations in bad weather. The history of recent decades is a chronicle of the struggle for technological renewal.

• Infrastructure Improvements: Over the years, work has been carried out to improve drainage, build permanent hangars, and fence the perimeter to comply with modern ANAC (National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil) safety standards.
• Course for Business Aviation: With the development of the footwear industry in the region, a need arose to accommodate fast business jets. This led to the development of projects for paving the runway and installing lighting equipment for night operations, which is a development priority at present.

Sporting Achievements and Records

Novo Hamburgo Airport has written its name in history not only as a transport facility but also as a sports arena. It has become a recognised centre for skydiving in the south of the country. State championships and regional competitions are regularly held here. The sky over Novo Hamburgo has repeatedly witnessed the setting of South American records for canopy formation and large formation skydiving, attracting thrill-seekers from across the continent.

Interesting Facts

Curiously, in the early years of the airfield's existence, it served as a magnet not only for pilots but for the entire city as a venue for social events. Hangars were often used for balls and public gatherings. This tradition is alive today: open days and aviation festivals gather thousands of citizens, maintaining a living link between generations and preserving the romantic spirit of the early years of flight.

Since Novo Hamburgo Airport (QHV) functions as a flying club and general aviation centre, the range of services here differs significantly from standard international terminals. The infrastructure is focused on the needs of private pilots, flight school students, and skydiving enthusiasts. You will not find Duty Free shops or chain restaurants here, but you can count on basic comfort and a hospitable atmosphere.

Dining and Shopping

Gastronomic options at the airport are limited but quite sufficient for a short visit.

• Café-Bar (Lanchonete): A small buffet or snack bar usually operates on the flying club premises. This is the heart of the airport's social life. Here you can order a traditional Brazilian coffee (cafezinho), soft drinks, fresh pastries, or toast (torradas). It is an excellent place to have a snack while watching take-offs and landings through panoramic windows or from the open veranda.
• Shops: There are no major retail outlets here. However, in the administrative building, you can sometimes purchase souvenirs with the flying club's branding (T-shirts, caps, keyrings) or basic accessories for pilots. The nearest supermarkets and pharmacies are located in the Canudos district, a 5–10 minute walk from the airport gates.

Connectivity and Work

For business travellers and students spending a lot of time at the airfield, basic conditions for work are provided.

• Wi-Fi and Internet: Free wireless internet access is provided in the main building of the flying club and in the café area. The password can usually be obtained from the receptionist or at the bar counter.
• Charging Stations: There are no specialised stands for charging gadgets, but there are sufficient standard power outlets available in the lounge area and classrooms (voltage in the region is 127/220 V, socket type N), which can be used free of charge.
• Conference Facilities: To hold briefings or small meetings, one of the flying club's classrooms can be rented. The rooms are equipped with whiteboards and projectors. This must be arranged with the administration in advance.

Finance and Medical Assistance

• Banks and ATMs: There are no ATMs or currency exchange points on the airport grounds. It is recommended to carry cash (Brazilian Reais) for small expenses at the buffet, although cards are accepted almost everywhere. The nearest bank branches are located on Avenida Bartolomeu de Gusmão.
• Medical Services: There is no first aid station with a permanent doctor in the terminal. However, given the nature of skydiving, staff are trained in first aid, and first aid kits are always available on site. In emergencies, an ambulance from the municipal hospital (Hospital Municipal de Novo Hamburgo) arrives within a few minutes.

Comfort and Accessibility

• Lounges: There are no separate VIP lounges (such as Priority Pass) here. The role of a business lounge is fulfilled by the general "Club House" lounge with soft sofas and a television. The atmosphere here is democratic: private jet owners relax alongside students.
• Passengers with Children: There is no dedicated mother and child room. Nevertheless, the area is family-friendly: children watch the planes with delight from the safe terrace. Restrooms are kept clean.
• Accessibility: The main building is single-storey, which facilitates movement for passengers with reduced mobility. There are practically no steps, and doorways are wide. However, boarding small aircraft may require staff assistance, which should be arranged with your pilot in advance.

Hotels Near the Airport

Since the airport does not have its own hotel, passengers and crews are offered accommodation in city hotels in Novo Hamburgo. Thanks to the compactness of the city, the journey to any of them will take no more than 15 minutes by taxi.

• Locanda Hotel: One of the most prestigious hotels in the city, located in the centre. It offers excellent service, a restaurant, and a pool. Popular among business travellers.
• Ibis Novo Hamburgo: A reliable option from the international chain with a predictable standard of quality. Located in a strategically convenient spot, close to shopping centres.
• Swan Tower Novo Hamburgo: A comfortable hotel with good infrastructure for business and leisure, including a fitness centre and conference rooms.
• Hotel Suarez Internacional: A more budget-friendly but decent option in the city centre, offering all necessary amenities for an overnight stay before a flight.

The gastronomic map of Novo Hamburgo Airport (QHV) fully corresponds to its status as a cosy flying club and centre for private aviation. Do not expect food courts with international fast-food chains or fine dining restaurants typical of major hubs here. Dining here is more a part of the club culture: simple, tasty, and conducive to conversation.

Main Venue: Aeroclube Bar and Restaurant

The only, yet very soulful, dining spot is located directly in the main administrative building. This place is often simply called the "Lanchonete" (snack bar) or "Restaurante do Aeroclube". It serves as a centre of attraction not only for hungry travellers but also for pilots, instructors, and flight school students.

• Location: The establishment is located in the public area (landside), immediately upon entering the main building. A feature is the presence of panoramic windows or access to an open terrace, offering the best view of the runway.
• Menu and Cuisine: Classic Brazilian "home-style" food is served here. The main focus is on snacks (lanches) and quick meals.
  • Quick Bite: Be sure to try pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread rolls) with strong black coffee (cafezinho). Also popular are torradas (hot sandwiches made from special bread with cheese and ham) and bauru (a hearty sandwich with meat, cheese, and tomatoes).
  • Full Lunch: At lunchtime (usually from 11:30 to 14:00), they often offer prato feito or à la minuta — a set meal of the day including rice, black beans, meat (steak or chicken), chips (fries), and salad. This is a filling and inexpensive option loved by locals.
• Beverages: The assortment always includes soft drinks, juices, water, and beer (popular Brazilian brands). For lovers of local traditions, hot water is always available for chimarrão (traditional mate tea), although locals usually bring their own gourd and herbs.

Specialised Nutrition and Dietary Options

Given the intimate format of the establishment, the choice for passengers with strict dietary restrictions is limited here.

• Vegetarians: Can order cheese sandwiches, pão de queijo (contains cheese and eggs), or salads.
• Vegan, Halal, and Gluten-Free: Specialised options are generally not available on the menu. If you follow a strict diet, it is highly recommended to bring food with you or dine in the city before arriving at the airfield.

Opening Hours and Prices

The buffet's schedule is usually synchronised with the activity of the flying club.

• Opening Times: The establishment opens around 08:30 in the morning and operates until sunset (approximately until 18:30–19:00). On days of air shows or holidays, the schedule is extended.
• Price Range: Prices here are very democratic and lower than in major airports. The average bill for coffee and a sandwich will be around 15–20 BRL, and a full lunch will cost 25–35 BRL.

Alternatives: Delivery and the City

Since the airport is located within the city limits (Canudos district), passengers always have a "Plan B". If the flying club menu does not suit you, you can use popular food delivery apps in Brazil (iFood). Couriers deliver orders to the main entrance of the flying club from hundreds of Novo Hamburgo restaurants without any problems. Waiting time is usually 20–30 minutes.

Travelling through Novo Hamburgo Airport (QHV) is a radically different experience from flying through large international hubs. Since this is a small aviation airfield, its own unwritten rules and etiquette apply here. To ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared a number of useful tips considering the specifics of private and training flights.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early". Time flows differently in Novo Hamburgo. If you have a private flight or a skydive scheduled, arriving 20–30 minutes before the appointed time is ideal. This is quite sufficient to meet the pilot, discuss flight details, and proceed calmly to the aircraft. Arriving too early is not necessary — the terminal is small, and there is little entertainment for a long wait.

Check-in and Security Specifics

There are no check-in counters, printing of boarding passes, or long queues for security screening requiring the removal of shoes and belts.

• Documents: Always carry identification (passport or ID). The pilot or flying club administrator is obliged to check it before departure.
• Screening: The security procedure is individual in nature. The aircraft captain is personally responsible for safety, so they may ask you to show the contents of your bags. Please treat this with understanding.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

In general aviation, you cannot select a seat in advance via an app. Seating in light aircraft (like a Cessna or Piper) depends on the centre of gravity and balance of the aircraft.

• Weight Matters: Be prepared to state your exact weight to the pilot — this is a safety question, not curiosity.
• Arrangement: The pilot will assign you a seat based on load distribution. If weight permits, ask for the seat next to the pilot (co-pilot seat) — it offers the best view and allows you to observe the instruments.

Luggage and Hand Baggage: What is Important to Know

Light aircraft have very limited luggage compartments, often of non-standard shapes.

• Type of Bags: It is highly recommended to use soft bags or backpacks. Rigid suitcases on wheels (even cabin size) may simply physically not fit into the luggage compartment of a small plane.
• Restrictions: Rules for carrying liquids and sharp objects are softer here than on commercial flights, but the transport of dangerous goods (gas cylinders, flammable liquids) remains strictly prohibited.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers

Novo Hamburgo Airport is not linked to a unified booking system with major airlines. If you arrive here on a private jet to then transfer to a scheduled flight:

• Allow Time for Transfer: You will need to travel by ground transport to Porto Alegre International Airport (Salgado Filho). The trip will take between 40 and 60 minutes.
• Time Buffer: Considering possible traffic jams on the BR-116 highway, allow at least 3–4 hours between flights.

Customs Control

The airport has domestic status and does not have a permanent customs and passport control zone (Polícia Federal). This means that direct international flights here are not possible. All customs procedures must be completed at the first airport of arrival in Brazil (usually São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, or Porto Alegre).

Tips for Saving Time and Money

• Transport: Do not overpay for transfers. Taxi apps (Uber, 99) work excellently in this area and are significantly cheaper than regular taxis.
• Dining: Prices at the flying club buffet are very democratic. Having a snack here will be cheaper than in any chain café in the city. This is a great way to save money without sacrificing quality.
• Connectivity: Use the free Wi-Fi in the club to call a taxi instead of using mobile data while roaming.

Actions in Case of Flight Delay

In general aviation, the main factor is the weather. Visual flight rules (VFR), under which most light aircraft operate, are not possible during low cloud cover or fog.

• Stay in Touch: Communicate directly with your pilot. They possess the most accurate information about meteorological conditions.
• Flexibility: If the weather deteriorates, the delay can range from a few hours to a day. Have a "Plan B" — for example, the option to travel to Porto Alegre by car or stay at a hotel in Novo Hamburgo. Compensation for weather conditions is usually not provided in private aviation.