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Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport

About the Airport

Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) is the main aerial gateway to the city of Santarém and a key transport hub in the state of Pará, Brazil. Named after the famous local composer Wilson Dias da Fonseca, this airport serves as a starting point for travellers wishing to explore the amazing natural beauties of the Amazon. It plays a significant economic and tourism role for the entire region, connecting it with the country's major cities. Despite its modest size, the airport ensures a comfortable start and end to your journey in this exotic corner of the world.

AirportSantarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport
IATASTM
ICAOSBSN
CitySantarem
TimezoneAmerica/Santarem
ScheduleOnline board

Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport, managed by AENA since 2022, is a compact yet functional terminal focused on domestic air travel. Its runway, over 2,400 metres long, is capable of accommodating various types of aircraft, ensuring stable connections with cities such as Belém, Manaus, and Brasília. For passenger convenience, all basic services are provided here, including check-in counters, a waiting lounge, and customer service points. The airport's main asset is its strategic location, making it the ideal gateway for tourists heading to the famous meeting point of the Tapajós and Amazon rivers, as well as the Tapajós National Forest.

Contact Information

Below you will find the main contact information for Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) to assist you in planning your trip.

  • Official website: www.aenabrasil.com.br (managed by Aena Brasil)
  • Information desk phone: +55 (93) 3523-1454
  • Address: Rodovia Fernando Guilhon, s/n, Santarenzinho, Santarém, PA, 68035-000, Brazil
  • Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the specific contact form in the "Fale Conosco" (Contact Us) section on the official website.
  • Social media: The airport is managed by Aena Brasil. Follow their news on their official pages by searching for "Aena Brasil" on popular social networks.
  • Lost and Found Information: For items left in the airport terminal, please contact the Lost and Found service (Achados e Perdidos) via the main phone number. If your checked luggage is lost or damaged, you must immediately contact your airline's representative at the airport.
  • Customer Service Contacts: For general information, assistance, and enquiries, you can call the information desk at: +55 (93) 3523-1454.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) from the city centre of Santarém is quite simple, as it is located just 15 kilometres away. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods. A trip to Brazil often involves domestic flights, so knowing your transport options will help plan your journey without unnecessary hassle.

Public Transport is the most economical option. City buses run from the city centre to the airport. Although this is not the fastest method, it allows you to experience the local atmosphere and save significantly. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This option is ideal for travellers with light luggage who are not afraid of adventure and wish to reduce expenses.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services, such as Uber, offer a faster and more comfortable way to reach the airport. The trip from the centre of Santarém will take just 15-20 minutes. Official taxi stands can be found in the city, but it is also convenient to order a car via an app. It is recommended to check the cost of the trip in advance or ensure the driver has switched on the meter. This is an excellent choice for those who value comfort, are travelling with a lot of luggage, or are in a group.

Car Rental is a wonderful solution for independent travellers planning to explore the surroundings, such as the famous beach village of Alter do Chão. Many international and local rental companies have desks right at Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport. You can pick up or drop off the car directly before your flight. For rental, you will likely need an international driving permit. It is better to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season.

If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is at your disposal. It is located directly in front of the terminal and offers both short-term and long-term parking. This is convenient if you are there to see someone off or pick someone up, or if you need to leave the car for the duration of a short trip.

Terminals and Map

Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) is a compact and functional aviation hub serving domestic flights. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making the experience comfortable even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which handles both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all necessary zones are under one roof. The terminal layout is logical: airline check-in counters and the baggage drop area are located at the entrance. After checking in, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small waiting lounge with boarding gates.

Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated. The arrivals hall includes baggage claim belts and an exit to the public area, where taxi stands and car rental desks can be found. Since the terminal is small, navigation causes no difficulties — there are signs everywhere, and staff are always ready to help.

Completing all formalities usually does not take much time. Check-in and security screening generally take 20 to 40 minutes depending on the flight load. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport typically 1.5–2 hours before departure to check in luggage, pass through controls, and enjoy a cup of coffee before the flight without rushing.

Airport History

The Santarém-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) is a key transport hub for the western part of the state of Pará in Brazil and has a rich history closely linked to the development of the region.

Its history began on the site of a former airstrip used for military purposes. The official opening of the civil airport took place on 31 March 1977. This event was a significant step for Santarém, as the new airport replaced the old airfield, which could no longer cope with the growing volume of traffic. In 1980, management was transferred to the state company Infraero, marking the beginning of a new stage of development and modernisation.

One of the landmark moments in the airport's history was its renaming. Initially known simply as Santarém Airport, in 2006 it received its current name — Maestro Wilson Fonseca. This was done in honour of a distinguished local composer, conductor, and writer, highlighting the air harbour's deep connection with the city's culture and heritage.

Throughout its history, the airport has undergone several stages of reconstruction. The most significant modernisation and expansion of the passenger terminal were completed in the 2010s. These works significantly increased capacity, improved passenger comfort, and met modern safety requirements. Today, Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport continues to play a vital role, serving as a gateway for tourists heading to the famous beaches of Alter do Chão and ensuring transport accessibility for the entire Amazon region.

Services and Amenities

Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Located near the city of Santarém in Brazil, this airport is an important regional transport hub. In the terminal, you will find several cafés and snack bars where you can have a bite or drink coffee before departure. There are also shops offering local souvenirs, press, and travel essentials.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in the waiting lounges. If you need cash, you can use the ATMs located in the public area of the terminal. It is recommended to check information regarding currency exchange points in advance, as their availability in regional airports may be limited.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with special needs. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps and specially equipped toilets are provided. Families with small children can use the mother and child room. In case of necessity, a medical point is available at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can check with their airline regarding access to VIP lounges, if available. There is no hotel within the airport itself; however, in the immediate vicinity, in the city of Santarém, there are many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent in the terminal, but necessary services can be found in city hotels.

Where to Eat

Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) offers passengers several basic but authentic options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Most dining establishments are located in the main terminal, in the public area before security control (landside), which is convenient for both departing passengers and those seeing them off.

The selection is based on small cafés and snack bars (lanchonetes), which are an integral part of Brazilian culture. Here you can grab a quick and inexpensive bite. The menu usually features fresh pastries, sandwiches, and popular Brazilian snacks such as pão de queijo (cheese bread) and coxinhas (chicken croquettes). This is an excellent option for those with limited time.

When travelling through the Amazon, be sure to try some local specialities. In the airport cafés, you can often order fresh juices made from exotic fruits such as açaí, cupuaçu, or soursop (graviola). Also, look out for tapioca — pancakes made from cassava flour with various fillings, from cheese to sweet options with banana and cinnamon. This is a wonderful and often gluten-free choice.

Options for a full lunch may be limited. Some cafés offer a "prato feito" — the dish of the day, consisting of rice, beans, salad, and a meat or chicken component. For vegetarians, the choice is usually limited to cheese pastries, tapioca with cheese or vegetables, and açaí bowls. There are no dedicated Halal or vegan establishments within the airport, so passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to bring food with them.

Prices at Santarém Airport are higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level compared to major international hubs. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one leaves. After passing security (airside), the selection is typically limited to a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks.

Travel Tips

When planning a trip through Santarem-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport, take advantage of our tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible. This airport serves the city of Santarém and is an important transport hub in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within Brazil, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient for calm registration, baggage drop, and passing pre-flight security without unnecessary rushing.

Check-in and Security: To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. During security screening, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronic devices from your hand luggage, as well as your bag of liquids (in containers up to 100 ml).

Seat Selection: Want to see incredible landscapes? Choose a window seat. When departing from or arriving in Santarém, you may be treated to an unforgettable view of the "Meeting of Waters" — the place where the crystal-clear waters of the Tapajós river merge with the muddy waters of the Amazon, as well as the endless expanse of the rainforest. Such a sight is a great start or end to a journey.

Hand Luggage: Remember the standard restrictions: liquids up to 100 ml in a single container, and no sharp objects. Additionally, be careful when transporting local souvenirs: the export of certain plants, seeds, and animal products may be prohibited without a special permit to protect the region's unique ecosystem.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect it and check it in again. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights to avoid unpleasant surprises.

International Travel: Bear in mind that Santarém Airport primarily serves domestic flights. If you are arriving in Brazil from abroad, you will go through all immigration and customs procedures at your first point of entry in the country (for example, in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro). In Santarém, there will only be standard checks for domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money: Check in for your flight online and gather all documents in advance. To save money, bring an empty water bottle to fill after security, as well as a light snack from home, as food and drinks at the airport can be expensive.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline's counter for the latest information and to clarify your rights to compensation (e.g., drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation). It is useful to have a portable charger for gadgets and something for entertainment to make the waiting time pass faster.

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