Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport

Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport. Source: Kupi.com AI

Welcome to Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport — the main air gateway to the state of Maranhão in Brazil. This is not just a transport hub, but the starting point for an unforgettable journey through a region known for its colonial heritage and unique natural wonders. It is from here that the journey begins to the historic city center of São Luís, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and to the breathtaking landscapes of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. The airport plays a key role in the development of tourism, culture, and the economy of the entire state.

Marechal Cunha Machado Airport, managed by CCR Aeroportos, is constantly evolving to ensure maximum comfort for passengers. In 2023, it served a record number of travelers — over 1.5 million people, highlighting its growing popularity. The passenger terminal offers all necessary services: from cozy cafes and souvenir shops to currency exchange points and travel agency representatives. Thanks to its convenient location and well-established transport connections, getting to the city center or coastal hotels is effortless, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the amazing state of Maranhão.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: www.ccraeroportos.com.br/sao-luis-ma
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (98) 3217-6100
• Address: Av. dos Libaneses, 3503 - Tirirical, São Luís - MA, 65056-480, Brasil
• Email: The airport does not provide a direct email address. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for inquiries.
• Social Media: News and updates are published on the official pages of the management company CCR Aeroportos on Instagram and Facebook.
• Lost and Found Information: If your belongings were lost within the terminal building, you should contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) service via the form on the website. For luggage lost during a flight, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For consultations and assistance, you can use the main information desk phone number or the online form on the airport's website.

Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ) is located approximately 15 kilometers from the historic center of São Luís. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport or vice versa, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport: The most economical method is city buses. Several routes connect the airport with different parts of the city, including the central bus terminal (Rodoviária). This is a good option for travelers with light luggage who are ready to immerse themselves in local life. A bus trip usually takes from 45 to 60 minutes depending on the route and traffic conditions. The ticket cost is minimal, but please note that buses can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: For greater comfort and speed, you can use a taxi or ride-hailing app services (such as Uber or 99). This is the most convenient option, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group. The trip from the city center to the airport will take about 25-40 minutes. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus but remains quite reasonable. It is recommended to use official taxi services or verified apps to avoid overcharging.

Car Rental: If you plan not only to explore São Luís but also to travel around the state of Maranhão, for example, to visit the famous Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, renting a car is an excellent solution. Counters for several international and local rental companies operate in the airport arrivals terminal. This gives maximum freedom of movement, but do not forget about the specifics of local traffic.

Airport Parking: For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. Rates depend on the duration of stay. We recommend checking prices on the official airport website in advance if you plan to leave the car for several days.

São Luís Airport, Marechal Cunha Machado (SLZ), is distinguished by a simple and clear structure, making it convenient for passengers. It operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and a few international flights. This compactness saves travelers from having to move between different buildings and simplifies orientation.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The ground floor traditionally houses the Arrivals Hall (Desembarque) and flight check-in counters. The baggage claim area, airline offices, car rental desks, and taxi stands are also located here. The Departures Hall (Embarque) is located on the first floor. To access it, passengers must go upstairs after check-in and pass through pre-flight security.

Since all zones are located in one building, transitions between them take minimal time. After completing check-in on the ground floor, you simply follow the signs to the escalator or stairs leading to the security checkpoint and boarding gates. Navigation is facilitated by clear signs in Portuguese and English.

Completing all formalities at SLZ airport usually does not take much time. Due to its relatively small size, queues for check-in and security are generally short. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport according to standard practice: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. During peak seasons, such as national holidays or Carnival, it is worth allowing a little more time for potential delays.

The main advice for navigation is to follow the standard procedure. Check in on the ground floor, then proceed to the first floor to pass through security control and wait for your flight. Since there is only one terminal, you cannot get lost. All necessary services and amenities are within walking distance of each other.

The history of Marechal Cunha Machado Airport (SLZ), located in the city of São Luís, begins in the 1940s with the creation of the Tirirical Airfield. Initially, it was a simple airfield serving regional needs. A significant milestone in its development was February 1, 1974, when Infraero inaugurated a modern passenger terminal, laying the foundation for future growth and the expansion of air travel in the state of Maranhão.

The airport received its current name in honor of Marshal Hugo da Cunha Machado, a prominent military figure born in the state of Maranhão. This renaming emphasized the connection of the air harbor with the history and culture of the region. Throughout its history, the airport has played a key role in the economic and tourism development of northeastern Brazil, ensuring the connection of the state capital with other major cities in the country.

One of the most significant milestones in the airport's recent history was a large-scale renovation and modernization completed in 2012. During these works, the terminal area was more than doubled — from 6,200 m² to 14,300 m². New jet bridges were installed, the check-in area and departure lounge were expanded, and the entire infrastructure was updated. This significantly increased capacity and improved the level of comfort for passengers.

Today, Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport is a modern and functional transport hub. It not only serves the residents and guests of São Luís but also serves as a starting point for travelers seeking to see unique natural wonders, such as the famous Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Its history reflects a constant drive for development and improvement, making it an important part of Brazil's transport system.

Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have coffee, a snack, or a full meal, trying local cuisine. There are also shops where you can buy souvenirs, travel goods, and press.

For the convenience of travelers, free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or handle work matters. Charging stations for electronic devices are available in the waiting lounges. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the services of the VIP lounge, where they can wait for boarding in a quiet atmosphere.

Basic financial services are available at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are in operation. In case first aid is needed, a medical post functions within the terminal. Information desks will help you orient yourself in the airport and answer any questions related to your journey.

Special attention is paid to passengers with special needs. The airport is equipped for the comfortable movement of people with disabilities: there are ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. Assistance services are also provided. For travelers with small children, baby care rooms are available, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment.

Although hotels are not located directly inside the airport building, there are many accommodation options for every taste and budget in the immediate vicinity and in the city of São Luís itself. Many nearby hotels offer transfer services. For business travelers, they can also provide conference rooms and business centers for meetings and events.

At Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ), travelers can find several convenient dining options, from a quick coffee to a more substantial lunch. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in giant airports, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most dining establishments are concentrated in the public area (landside), located before passport and customs control. Here you will find cafes and small eateries where you can leisurely enjoy a cup of famous Brazilian coffee with fresh pastries or have a full meal. This is the ideal place if you have extra time before departure or are meeting arrivals.

In the secure area (airside), after passing security, the selection is more modest and oriented towards passengers waiting for their flight. Small snack bars and kiosks predominate here, offering drinks, sandwiches, snacks, and other light bites that are convenient to take on board.

Be sure to try local cuisine dishes. Look for traditional Brazilian snacks on the menu, such as pão de queijo (warm cheese buns), coxinhas (chicken croquettes in crispy dough), or pastéis (fried pastries with various fillings). This is a great way to get acquainted with the gastronomy of Brazil right at the airport.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans) should look for fruit cuts, salads, and fresh juices, which can be found in most cafes. Finding certified gluten-free or Halal dishes might be difficult, so it is recommended to clarify information about the ingredients of dishes with the staff.

The price range in airport establishments is generally average to above average compared to city prices. The operating hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the last evening departures.

Recommendation: If you want a quick snack immediately before boarding, the kiosks in the departure zone will suit you. For a more substantial meal, it is better to use the cafes in the public area before passing security control.

To ensure your journey through the airport of São Luís goes smoothly, follow these tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and save time for more pleasant experiences from your trip to Brazil.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time in case of queues. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24-48 hours before departure. This allows you to go straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are traveling light, to the security zone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security rules are standard: liquids (perfumes, creams, gels) can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 liter. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for scanning. Prepare these items in advance to speed up the process. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If possible, select a seat during booking or online check-in. Window seats will give you the opportunity to admire the views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and quick access to the cabin. Passengers with transfers should clarify in advance whether they need to collect their luggage and check it in again. Watch carefully for "Transfers/Conexões" signs to quickly find the right gate.

Customs Control. When entering Brazil, you will encounter the "Red" and "Green" channel system. If you have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the Green Channel (Nada a Declarar). If you are carrying goods exceeding established limits or restricted items, you must go through the Red Channel (Bens a Declarar). It is better to familiarize yourself with current customs regulations on official websites in advance.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses.