Patos de Paraíba (Brigadeiro Firmino Ayres)

Patos de Paraíba Airport, named after Brigadeiro Firmino Ayres (JPO), is not just a runway, but a true aerial gateway to the heart of the Brazilian Sertão region in the state of Paraíba. Opened back in 1951, this compact airport plays a key role in the transport system, connecting the city of Patos and its surroundings with the country's major aviation hubs. For travellers seeking to explore the authentic culture and natural beauty of northeastern Brazil, the airport serves as a convenient and quick starting point, bypassing the hustle and bustle of large metropolises. Its small size turns into an advantage, ensuring a calm atmosphere and efficient service for passengers.

Despite its modest size, Patos de Paraíba airport possesses a number of virtues that make it attractive to tourists. The main advantage is its strategic location. The airport provides a direct link to Recife, one of the largest cities in northeastern Brazil, opening up wide opportunities for further travel across the country. Its proximity to the city centre, just 4 kilometres away, allows you to reach your hotel or attractions in a matter of minutes, saving time and money on transfers.

The internal environment of the airport is characterised by simplicity and functionality. There are no huge crowds or long queues here, making the check-in and baggage claim process quick and comfortable. It is the ideal choice for those who value their time and prefer to avoid the stress associated with major aviation hubs. The airport is a key element for the development of tourism and business activity in the Sertão region, offering a reliable and convenient way to reach this distinctive corner of Brazil.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information about Patos de Paraíba Airport, managed by Aena Brasil, can be found on their official portal. We recommend visiting the page dedicated to the airport: www.aenabrasil.com.br.
• Help Desk Phone: For immediate communication, you can use the number +55 (83) 3421-3442. Please note that the most reliable way to obtain information is through the official website.
• Airport Address: Rodovia BR 230, s/n, Bairro dos Estados, Patos - PB, CEP: 58707-650, Brazil.
• Email: There is no specialised email address for passenger enquiries. To contact them, please use the feedback form in the "Fale Conosco" (Contact Us) section on the Aena Brasil operator's website.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate social media pages. All news and important announcements are published on the official Aena Brasil channels (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: For items left in the terminal building, please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) service via the Aena Brasil website. If your luggage was lost during the flight, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
• Customer Support Contacts: Any questions, suggestions, or complaints can be directed to the airport operator Aena Brasil via the contact form on their official website.

Getting to Patos de Paraíba Airport (Brigadeiro Firmino Ayres) from the city of Patos is quite simple, thanks to its close proximity to the centre. Travellers can choose the most convenient method for themselves: from budget-friendly public transport to comfortable taxis or rental cars.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Typically, these are city buses, with fares costing just a few Brazilian Reals. It is worth noting that there may not be a direct route to the terminal entrance, but some buses stop in the immediate vicinity of the airport. This method is best suited for tourists with light luggage. We recommend checking the current schedule and local transport routes in advance to plan your trip without haste.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from the central part of the city usually takes no more than 10–20 minutes, and the estimated cost is between 20-40 Brazilian Reals. You can hail a car via mobile apps popular in Brazil, find one at taxi stands, or order by phone. This option is more expensive than the bus but guarantees comfort and delivery right to the terminal, which is especially valuable if you have bulky luggage.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the region. The road to the airport from the city is well-marked and will not take much time. Most rental agencies allow you to return the car directly at the airport before departure, making this option very practical. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

For those driving to the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available on the terminal grounds. You can leave your car here for a few hours or for a longer period. This is a safe and convenient method if you prefer independence in your travels.

Patos de Paraíba Airport (JPO) is a small regional aviation hub with a structure that is as simple and understandable as possible for travellers. There is one passenger terminal operating here, which handles all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its compact size and the absence of complex passageways, navigating the airport will not cause any difficulties, even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering the building, you find yourself in a general hall where airline check-in counters are located. The departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. After checking in, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small waiting lounge with a boarding gate. The arrival zone consists of a baggage claim belt and an exit to the general hall, where you can meet arriving passengers or order a taxi.

Since there is only one terminal in the airport, there is no need to transfer between buildings. All procedures take place in one location, which significantly saves time and energy. Check-in and security control processes usually take a minimum amount of time due to the low passenger flow. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5-2 hours before departure — to complete all formalities without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is to follow the signs, although it is practically impossible to get lost here. The entire path from the terminal entrance to the boarding gate can be walked in a few minutes. Airport staff are always ready to help and suggest directions. Simplicity and efficiency are the key characteristics of Patos de Paraíba Airport, making it a convenient starting point for travel around the region.

Patos de Paraíba Airport, officially known as Brigadeiro Firmino Ayres Airport (JPO), is a key transport infrastructure facility for the city of Patos and the entire Sertão Paraibano region. Its history is relatively short but very significant for local development. The airport was inaugurated on April 8, 2005, with the aim of stimulating the economy, tourism, and improving transport accessibility to the interior regions of the state of Paraíba.

Since its opening, the main stages of the airport's development have been closely linked to efforts to attract regular commercial flights. In its early years, it primarily served private and business aviation, as well as charter flights. Although the airport was built with the future in mind, achieving a stable passenger flow became one of the main tasks for local authorities. There are few significant historical events in its biography unrelated to its construction and modernisation, as the main focus has always been on its infrastructural growth.

A turning point in the airport's history was the recent initiatives for its comprehensive modernisation. In recent years, the state government has allocated significant funds for large-scale reconstruction. Projects include updating the passenger terminal, improving the runway, and installing new navigation and flight safety equipment. These steps are aimed at ensuring the airport meets all requirements for receiving modern commercial aircraft and can become part of the national air transport network.

Among the interesting facts is the airport's name. It bears the name of Brigadier General Firmino Ayres, a prominent military figure native to this region. Although the airport cannot yet boast passenger traffic records, its main achievement is the very fact of its existence and the hope it provides for the social and economic prosperity of the entire arid Sertão region. Today, the history of Patos Airport is a story of perseverance and belief in the potential of the Brazilian interior.

Patos de Paraíba Airport (JPO), also known as Brigadeiro Firmino Ayres Airport, is a small regional airport serving domestic flights. The services here are focused on providing basic comfort for passengers waiting for departure and correspond to the size and traffic of the terminal.

Dining and Shopping. Inside the terminal, there is typically a small café or snack bar operating, where you can have a coffee and a snack before your flight. The choice of dining establishments is limited. There may also be a small kiosk selling newspapers, magazines, and travel essentials. Large shops and duty-free zones are absent here.

Lounges and Facilities. A general waiting hall is available for all passengers. There are no separate VIP lounges or business lounges at the airport. The waiting hall usually has access to free Wi-Fi, although its speed may be unstable. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is limited, so it is better to have a portable charger with you.

Financial and Medical Services. Full-service bank branches and currency exchange points are absent at the airport. It is recommended to handle all financial matters in advance in the city of Patos. An ATM for cash withdrawals may be installed in the terminal. For emergency assistance, there is a first aid station.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs. The airport is equipped with basic infrastructure for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and accessible toilets. Airport staff are always ready to assist with check-in, security control, and boarding. For passengers with small children, changing tables may be provided in the restrooms.

Accommodation and Business Services. There are no hotels on the airport grounds. The nearest hotels and accommodation options are located in the city of Patos, which can be reached by taxi. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are also not provided at the airport, as it is primarily focused on serving passenger transport.

Patos de Paraíba Airport (JPO), being a small regional hub, offers passengers basic but convenient options for a snack before departure. It is important to understand that the selection here will not be as wide as in large international airports, and establishments are concentrated mainly in the general hall.

The main place to eat is a small café or lanchonete — a traditional Brazilian snack bar. Such establishments are usually located in the main lobby of the airport, in the public zone (landside), before security control. Here, travellers can have a quick and filling snack before their flight. Opening hours are generally tied to the flight arrival and departure schedule, so the café may be closed during quiet periods.

The menu usually features classic Brazilian snacks that are perfect for a quick bite:

• Pão de queijo — famous cheese bread rolls that go perfectly with coffee.
• Salgados — various savoury pastries, for example, coxinha (teardrop-shaped chicken croquettes) or pastel (fried pastry with various fillings).
• Simple sandwiches and toast.
• Coffee, fresh juices, carbonated drinks, and water.

As for a full lunch or dinner, options within the airport itself are extremely limited. For this, it is better to go to one of the restaurants in the city of Patos. Specialised dietary options, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes, are likely not to be found here. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are moderate and consistent with the level of small regional airports.

Planning a trip through Patos de Paraíba Airport (Brigadeiro Firmino Ayres) can be simple and convenient if you know a few key points. To ensure your journey from the city of Patos goes as smoothly as possible, use these practical tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. The airport in Patos is small and serves mainly domestic flights. Generally, arriving 1.5 hours before departure is quite sufficient. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. Security screening procedures here usually go faster than at major airports, but always keep your passport and boarding pass ready.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely. Regarding hand luggage, remember the standard rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp and cutting objects are prohibited. Be sure to check the weight and size limits for hand luggage on your airline's website to avoid extra charges.

Connections and Customs Control. Flights from Patos are usually part of a route with a connection at larger airports in Brazil. When buying a ticket, ensure you have enough time between flights (at least 2 hours). Customs control is only passed when crossing international borders. If you are flying on a domestic flight, you will not have to go through this procedure.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Travelling light, with only hand luggage, will also help save both time and money. Bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security, and light snacks to avoid spending money at the airport.

What to do in case of a flight delay? In the event of a flight delay, remain calm. All current information will be displayed on the departure boards and in your airline's app. Contact a representative of the carrier to learn about your rights. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep important items, such as chargers and medication, in your hand luggage.