Salgado Filho International Airport

Salgado Filho Airport (POA) is the main aerial gateway to Porto Alegre and the entire southern region of Brazil. Located within the city limits, it serves as a vital transport hub for both domestic and international flights. Named after a senator and the first minister of the Brazilian Air Force, the airport combines modern infrastructure with convenience, welcoming travelers with an atmosphere of hospitality. It is the starting point for exploring the Gaucho culture and the picturesque landscapes of the State of Rio Grande do Sul.

Below is the essential information about the airport to help you plan your journey.

Salgado Filho Airport stands out for its convenient location and developed infrastructure. It was the first airport in Latin America to open its own shopping mall within the premises, offering passengers a wide selection of shops and services. The airport is managed by Fraport Brasil, which carried out works to extend the runway to 3,200 meters, allowing it to accommodate large long-haul aircraft and operate direct flights to North America and Europe. For ease of movement between terminals and the metro station, a modern automated Aeromóvel system is in operation.

Important Note: In May 2024, the airport was seriously affected by flooding, which led to a temporary closure. Since October 2024, airport operations have partially resumed, but capacity and the number of flights may be limited. Travelers are advised to check the latest information about their flights directly with their airlines.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Salgado Filho International Airport (POA) in Porto Alegre.

• Official Website: portoalegre-airport.com.br
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (51) 3358-2000
• Address: Av. Severo Dullius, 90.010 - Anchieta, Porto Alegre - RS, 90200-310, Brasil
• Feedback Email (Ombudsman): ouvidoria.poa@fraport-brasil.com
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages on Facebook and Instagram (@portoalegreairportoficial).
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost & Found) service at +55 (51) 3358-2903. For issues regarding lost or damaged checked baggage, please contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general inquiries and consultations, please use the main airport information desk phone number.

Planning a trip to Salgado Filho Airport (POA)? You can reach the terminals from the center of Porto Alegre using several convenient methods. The city's transport infrastructure offers options for every budget: from modern public transport to private transfers, making it easy to find a suitable route.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. Its main highlight is the unique Aeromóvel system, an automated air-propelled train. To use it, you need to take the metro (Trensurb line) to the "Aeroporto" station. From there, the free Aeromóvel shuttle will take you directly to the main terminal in just a few minutes. This route is considered optimal in terms of speed and cost. Additionally, city buses also serve the airport; however, please note that due to stops and potential traffic, the journey may take longer.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is an excellent choice for travelers with bulky luggage, families with children, or those who prefer maximum comfort. Official taxi counters are located in the arrivals area. Furthermore, ride-hailing apps are popular in Porto Alegre. The trip from the city center to the airport usually takes 20-30 minutes, but travel time may increase during peak hours. Although this is a more expensive option, it guarantees convenience and "door-to-door" service.

If you plan to explore the State of Rio Grande do Sul, car rental will provide you with complete freedom of movement. Counters for international and local rental agencies can be found right inside the airport building. For those arriving by private or rented car, there are several parking zones operating within the airport grounds. Here you can leave your car for both short and long periods by choosing the appropriate tariff.

In summary, the choice of transport depends on your priorities. The combination of the Trensurb metro and the Aeromóvel shuttle offers the ideal balance of speed and economy. Taxis or transfers provide maximum comfort. A rented car opens up opportunities for traveling throughout southern Brazil. Regardless of your choice, we advise leaving with ample time, especially if your trip coincides with peak hours.

Salgado Filho Airport (POA) in Porto Alegre consists of two passenger terminals — Terminal 1 (TPS1) and Terminal 2 (TPS2). Each serves different airlines and flight types, so it is crucially important to check exactly which terminal your flight departs from before heading to the airport.

Terminal 1 (TPS1) is the main and most modern building of the airport. It handles the majority of domestic flights and all international destinations. The terminal structure is multi-level and intuitive:

• Ground Floor: Arrivals area, baggage claim, car rental counters, and exit to taxis and buses.
• Second Floor: Check-in area and airline offices.
• Third Floor: Departures area, where security checkpoints, passport control for international flights, boarding gates, as well as most shops, the food court, and VIP lounges are located.

Navigation in Terminal 1 is simple thanks to numerous signs in Portuguese and English.

Terminal 2 (TPS2) is the historic, older building of the airport, which is now used mainly by budget airlines, such as Azul Linhas Aéreas, for domestic flights. It is significantly smaller than Terminal 1, making it more convenient for quick navigation. Check-in and security processes here often move faster due to lower passenger traffic.

Movement between terminals is organized very conveniently. A free shuttle bus runs between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 every 10-15 minutes. Additionally, you can reach the nearest metro station (Trensurb) from Terminal 1 using the automated Aeromóvel train, which is a key link in connecting the airport with the city.

To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. Although Salgado Filho Airport is considered quite efficient, during peak hours and the tourist season, the time required to clear all procedures may increase. Always check your flight and terminal information in advance to plan your route and arrival time at the main aviation hub of the State of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil.

The history of Salgado Filho Airport is closely intertwined with the development of aviation in southern Brazil. Its journey began in 1923, when a flying club was founded on this site. However, the official birth date of the modern airport is considered to be July 3, 1940, when the first paved runway was opened. Initially, it was known as São João Airfield, named after the district in which it is located.

An important stage in history came in 1951, when the airport received its current name — Salgado Filho, in honor of Joaquim Pedro Salgado Filho, the first Minister of the Brazilian Air Force, who tragically died in a plane crash. This renaming highlighted the growing strategic importance of the facility for the entire country. In 1953, the first passenger terminal was inaugurated, which is known today as Terminal 2. Its distinctive design became one of the symbols of the city of Porto Alegre.

With the growth of passenger traffic and international flights, it became obvious that the old infrastructure was insufficient. In 2001, a massive modernization took place: a new, modern passenger terminal (today's Terminal 1) was built. The old terminal was temporarily closed, but later renovated and reopened to serve low-cost carriers and regional flights, preserving its historical appearance.

The airport received another significant boost for development ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Works were carried out to expand the runway and upgrade the infrastructure, allowing for the reception of larger long-haul aircraft. Today, Salgado Filho Airport is a modern transport hub that continues to develop while preserving the memory of its rich history, which began with a small flying club almost a century ago.

Salgado Filho Airport (POA) offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable and pleasant journey. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need here while waiting for your flight. The terminals house numerous cafes and restaurants to suit every taste: from fast food outlets to restaurants offering Brazilian and international cuisine. For those wishing to shop, there are duty-free stores, souvenir shops, as well as newsstands and travel goods outlets.

For passengers wishing to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. There are also plenty of charging stations for mobile devices. Business travelers can make use of business centers and rent conference rooms for meetings.

If you prefer to wait for your flight in a more tranquil environment, VIP lounges and high-comfort areas are at your disposal. Here you can relax in comfortable armchairs, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, read the latest press, or work in silence.

Practical matters are also easily resolved at the airport. You will find bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points here. In case of need, a medical station is available to passengers where first aid can be provided. For travelers with children, there are mother and child rooms, and for passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment is created and special assistance is provided.

For those with a long layover or an early morning flight, several hotels are located right on the airport grounds and in the immediate vicinity. This allows you to rest in comfort without spending time traveling to the city.

At Salgado Filho Airport (POA), travelers will find diverse dining options for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full meal, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and lounges. Dining outlets are located both in the public area (landside) and in the secure area for passengers who have passed security control (airside).

For those who have time and want a substantial lunch, there are à la carte restaurants operating in the airport. The main focus is on Brazilian cuisine, particularly meat dishes, for which the state of Rio Grande do Sul is famous. You can find establishments offering the famous churrasco — succulent grilled meat. In addition, there are restaurants serving international cuisine, pizzerias, and sushi bars. Most of these establishments are concentrated in the departure area after passport control, but a few good options can also be found in the public part of the terminal.

If you are in a hurry, numerous coffee shops and fast-food outlets are at your service. Here you can drink a cup of aromatic Brazilian coffee and try traditional pastries, such as cheese buns known as pão de queijo or savory dough snacks called coxinha. International fast-food chains, sandwich bars, and fresh juice stalls are also widely represented, which are ideal for a light and quick snack. These establishments are evenly distributed throughout the airport.

Travelers with special dietary needs should pay attention to the menus in restaurants. Vegetarian dishes, such as salads, pasta with vegetables, or vegetable sides, are available in most establishments. Finding certified gluten-free or Halal dishes might be more challenging, but you can always ask the staff for assistance with your choice. The price range at the airport is generally higher than in the city. Major cafes and restaurants operate according to flight schedules, and some fast-food outlets are open 24 hours a day, which is convenient for passengers on night flights.

To ensure your journey through Salgado Filho Airport in Porto Alegre goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This modern and busy transport hub serves many domestic and international flights, so proper preparation will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Brazil — 1.5-2 hours prior. To avoid queues, use online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop-off or, if you are traveling light, directly to the security checkpoint.

Security Control and Seat Selection: Screening procedures are standard, but be prepared to present electronics and liquids separately. Regarding seat selection on the plane, if you are departing from Porto Alegre, window seats can offer beautiful views of the city and the Guaíba River, while aisle seats provide more space and freedom of movement.

Hand Luggage: Remember the general rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. If you are carrying specific products, such as coffee or local souvenirs, check the export rules in advance to avoid problems at customs.

Passengers with Connections: If you are flying on an international flight followed by a transfer to a domestic one, you will likely need to pass passport control, collect your luggage, and re-check it for the next flight. Ensure you have enough time between flights — allow at least 2-3 hours for all formalities.

Customs Control (Alfândega): When entering Brazil, be prepared for possible customs inspection. It is necessary to declare cash and goods exceeding established limits. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with current rules on the official website of the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal) in advance.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle — after security, you can fill it at drinking fountains. Food prices at the airport are quite high, so bringing a light snack with you is a good idea. For traveling to or from the city, consider using ride-hailing apps, which may be cheaper than official airport taxi services.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a long delay, the airline is obliged to provide you with food vouchers, and for multi-hour waits — hotel accommodation. Stay calm, contact your carrier's counter for information and to clarify your rights as a passenger. The airport has cafes, shops, and Wi-Fi access to help pass the time.