Santos Dumont

Santos Dumont Airport in Parnaíba is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the world of amazing natural wonders in the northeast of Brazil. It is from here that the famous "Route of Emotions" (Rota das Emoções) begins, leading to the dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses and the unique Parnaíba River Delta. This compact and modern airport welcomes travellers hungry for adventure and serves as the starting point for exploring one of the most picturesque regions of the country.

The main advantage of Santos Dumont Airport is its strategic location. It is a key point for tourists heading to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, known for its white dunes and lagoons, as well as for those wishing to explore the only open sea delta in the Americas — the Parnaíba River Delta. Thanks to its modest size, the airport is very passenger-friendly: it is easy to navigate here, and all procedures from check-in to boarding are quick and without unnecessary fuss. The terminal is primarily oriented towards the tourist flow, offering a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable start or end to a journey through this breathtaking region.

Below is the current contact information for Parnaíba International Airport — Prefeito Dr. João Silva Filho (PHB). Please note: although the airport is sometimes unofficially called "Santos Dumont" due to architectural similarities with the airport in Rio de Janeiro, its official name is Aeroporto Internacional de Parnaíba - Prefeito Dr. João Silva Filho.

• Official Airport Website: www.aeroportoparnaiba.com.br (managed by the SBPB consortium)
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (86) 3315-3300
• Airport Address: Rodovia BR-343, s/n - Bairro São Judas Tadeu, Parnaíba - PI, 64206-260, Brasil
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website ("Contato" section).
• Airport Social Media: Official pages are available on Instagram and Facebook (links can be found in the footer of the official website).
• Lost and Found Information: It is recommended to contact the general airport phone number (+55 86 3315-3300) or visit the terminal administration in person. For items left on board the aircraft, contact the airline directly (Azul or Voepass).
• Passenger Support Contacts: Questions can be asked via the "Fale Conosco" form on the website or by phoning the administration.

Getting to Santos Dumont Airport (PHB) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose a taxi, public transport, or a rental car. On average, the journey from the central part of Parnaíba to the airport takes about 15-20 minutes.

Taxi and Transfers are the most popular and convenient method. This is a fast and relatively inexpensive option, especially if you are travelling with luggage or in a group. You can hail a car on the street, order one at your hotel, or use ride-hailing apps if they are available in the region. The cost of the trip will be low due to the short distance.

Public Transport in Parnaíba is represented by city buses. This is the most budget-friendly option, however, it may require more time and be less convenient, especially for tourists with a lot of luggage. A direct route to the airport may not be available, and a transfer might be required. There are no metros or trains in the city. This method is suitable for experienced travellers wishing to save money.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively explore not only the city but also the picturesque surroundings, such as the Parnaíba River Delta. Rental company counters are usually located within the airport building or nearby. Having your own transport will give you maximum freedom of movement during your journey through Brazil.

For travellers arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided on the airport grounds. It is located next to the terminal and offers spaces for both short-term and long-term parking, making it convenient for those flying away for a few days.

The airport of the city of Parnaíba (PHB), officially known as the Prefeito Dr. João Silva Filho International Airport, is a small and modern aviation hub. It consists of one passenger terminal, which serves all domestic flights. Thanks to its compact size and thoughtful layout, navigating here is very easy, and you won't have to worry about long walks or finding the right gate.

The terminal layout is extremely simple and intuitive. All key zones are combined in one building: check-in counters, security screening area, departure lounge, and baggage claim area. The departure and arrival zones are located in close proximity to each other. After checking in for the flight and passing through security control, passengers enter a cosy waiting hall. Passengers on arriving flights proceed directly to the baggage carousel hall immediately after disembarking, which is located just a few steps from the exit to the main airport hall.

One of the main advantages of a small airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Check-in and screening procedures at PHB take significantly less time compared to major aviation hubs in Brazil. As a rule, there are no long queues here, which allows passengers to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before the departure of a domestic flight, avoiding unnecessary stress.

To navigate the terminal, it is enough to follow the signs, but it is practically impossible to get lost here. All main services — from airline counters to cafes and car rental points — are within sight in the main hall. The compactness of the airport makes it an ideal starting point for a trip along the coast of the state of Piauí, ensuring a quick and comfortable start to your holiday.

The history of the airport serving the city of Parnaíba is a story of the transformation of a modest airfield into a modern gateway to one of the most picturesque regions of Brazil. Officially known as Prefeito Dr. João Silva Filho International Airport (PHB), it plays a key role in the development of tourism on the coast of Piauí state.

The airport was inaugurated on 19 October 1973 and was initially under the management of the Brazilian Air Force. In those years, it mainly performed functions supporting military and regional transport. An important stage in its history began in 1980, when management was transferred to Infraero, marking the beginning of its development as a fully-fledged commercial airport oriented towards civil aviation.

With the growing popularity of the tourist route "Rota das Emoções" ("Route of Emotions"), which unites three unique natural wonders — Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, the Parnaíba River Delta, and Jericoacoara beaches — the role of the airport became critically important. It turned into the main transport hub for thousands of travellers striving to explore this amazing corner of the country. This stimulated further investment in its infrastructure.

Recent years have been a period of the most significant transformations. The airport underwent extensive modernisation, which included the reconstruction of the runway, expansion of the apron, and, most importantly, the construction of a new, modern passenger terminal. These improvements allowed for the reception of larger aircraft and significantly increased capacity, preparing the airport to receive a growing flow of both domestic and international tourists.

An interesting fact: the airport's name honours the memory of Dr. João Silva Filho, a former mayor of Parnaíba who made a great contribution to the city's development. Today, PHB Airport is not just a transport facility, but a symbol of the economic and tourist revival of the region, giving travellers quick and convenient access to the incredible natural beauties of northeastern Brazil.

Santos Dumont Airport (PHB) is a compact regional terminal offering passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal building has a small waiting area and a cafe where you can have a snack or drink a cup of coffee before departure. The infrastructure is focused on providing the essentials without excesses.

For those planning to travel around the surrounding area by car, car rental counters are located directly in the terminal, which is very convenient for starting a journey immediately upon arrival. There is also parking for private vehicles next to the airport building.

The airport is equipped with necessary amenities, including restrooms. Conditions have also been created for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring the terminal is accessible to all travellers.

Given the compact size of Parnaíba International Airport (PHB), passengers should plan their meals in advance. Unlike major hubs, there are no extensive food courts or multiple terminals here. The airport's gastronomic infrastructure is represented by small food outlets, focused primarily on a quick snack before departure.

The main place to get some food is the snack bar (lanchonete), located in the public zone (landside) of the terminal, before security control. A relaxed atmosphere reigns here, and this is the only place where well-wishers can have coffee together with departing passengers. In the departure zone (airside) after security control, options may be limited to just a small kiosk or vending machines, so it is recommended to have a snack beforehand.

The menu at local cafes is dominated by traditional Brazilian savoury snacks (salgados). You should definitely try:

• Pão de queijo — famous Brazilian cheese buns that pair perfectly with strong coffee.
• Coxinhas — teardrop-shaped croquettes with chicken filling.
• Empadas — small pies with various fillings (chicken, palm hearts, cheese).

Since the airport is located in the state of Piauí, pay attention to the drinks. If the assortment includes Cajuína — a refreshing non-alcoholic cashew drink typical of this region — be sure to try it. This is an excellent way to experience the local flavour without leaving the terminal.

Dietary food is difficult to find at the airport due to the limited selection.
— Vegetarians can choose cheese buns (pão de queijo) or pastries with cheese.
— For vegans, the choice is extremely sparse; you may have to limit yourself to packaged snacks, fruit (if available), or black coffee.
— Gluten-free options are not specifically marked, but it is worth remembering that classic pão de queijo is made from cassava flour and usually does not contain gluten (check the ingredients with the seller). Halal or Kosher food is not available at an airport of this scale.

Opening hours of food outlets are usually tied to the flight schedule. Cafes open approximately an hour and a half before the first departure and close after the departure of the last flight. During periods between flights, when the terminal is empty, service may be suspended.

Price range is average, slightly higher than in the city of Parnaíba, but affordable. Coffee and a snack will cost approximately 20–35 Brazilian Reais.

Expert Recommendation: If you have a long wait ahead or are used to a substantial lunch, it is better to eat at restaurants in the city of Parnaíba before travelling to the airport. PHB Airport is ideal for a cup of coffee and a light snack, but not for a full meal of several courses.

Travelling through Parnaíba airport is generally a calm and predictable process, but a few tips will help make it even more comfortable. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is quite sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, as the airport is not characterised by large size or huge crowds of passengers.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines offer. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop (if you have any) or to security screening. The screening procedure is standard for domestic flights within Brazil: be prepared to show your boarding pass and ID, as well as remove electronics and liquids from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, try to book a window seat. Depending on the route and the direction of take-off or landing, a breathtaking view of the unique Parnaíba River Delta or the picturesque Atlantic coast may open up to you. This is a wonderful opportunity to take the first or last photos of your journey.

In hand luggage, it is permitted to carry liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Anything exceeding this volume must be checked in as luggage. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons are strictly prohibited in the cabin. Before leaving for the airport, it is always useful to check your airline's rules.

If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the intermediate airport. Usually, when flying with one airline or alliance, luggage is checked through to the final destination, but it is better to be safe. Keep in mind that Parnaíba airport mainly serves domestic flights, so allow enough time for transfers at major hubs (for example, in São Paulo or Brasília).

Customs control is relevant only for passengers on international flights. Since most flights from Parnaíba are domestic, you will most likely not have to undergo this procedure. The entire process will be limited to a standard security check before boarding the plane.

To save money, consider booking a transfer from or to the airport in advance via online services or taxi apps — this is often more economical than taking a car on the spot. You can also bring a small snack and a water bottle (which can be filled after security), as prices for food and drinks at airports are traditionally higher.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, the first thing to do is contact your airline's representative counter. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. It is useful to have a portable charger for gadgets and a book or downloaded films with you to while away the wait.