Teixeira de Freitas Airport

Teixeira de Freitas Airport (Aeroporto de Teixeira de Freitas) is not merely a runway, but the aerial gateway to the southernmost and most fascinating corner of the state of Bahia. It is here that one begins their acquaintance with the "Whale Coast" (Costa das Baleias) region, renowned for its natural parks and the opportunity to observe marine giants. Although the airport is small, it plays a key role in the transport system of Brazil, connecting this picturesque region with the country's major cities.

The main advantage of the airport is its compactness and convenience. There is none of the hustle and bustle of large aviation hubs here: checking in for a flight, passing through security, and retrieving luggage take minimal time. This allows travellers to quickly begin their adventure in the region without losing precious hours in the terminal. The airport recently underwent modernisation, which improved its infrastructure and passenger comfort.

Teixeira de Freitas Airport is the ideal starting point for exploring the extreme south of Bahia. From here, it is easy to reach tourist centres such as Prado, Alcobaça, and Caravelas, from where excursions depart to the famous Abrolhos Marine National Park. By choosing a flight to Teixeira de Freitas, you save time on long bus journeys and immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of tropical Brazil.

Below you will find contact information for Teixeira de Freitas Airport (TXF), which may be useful when planning your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the current flight schedule, news, and general information about the airport on the official website of the management company VOA-BA: voa-ba.com.br.
• Information Desk Phone: For information about flights, airport services, and other general inquiries, you can call: +55 (73) 3292-6261.
• Airport Address: Rodovia BR-101, s/n - km 881, Teixeira de Freitas, Bahia, CEP: 45985-970, Brasil.
• Email: A specialised email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website to communicate with the administration.
• Social Media: You can follow news about the region's airports, including Teixeira de Freitas, on the official social media pages of the operator VOA-BA.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most questions related to airport service, you can contact the information desk at the phone number listed above. For issues related to tickets or the flight itself, please contact your airline directly.

Teixeira de Freitas Airport (TXF) is located in close proximity to the city, making the journey to the centre quick and convenient. A trip by car usually takes just 15-20 minutes. Here are the main ways to get from the airport to Teixeira de Freitas and back.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and reliable option. Official taxis can always be found at the exit of the arrivals terminal. The trip to the city centre will be quick, and due to the short distance, the cost is usually between 30-50 Brazilian Reals. Ride-hailing apps are also popular in Brazil, which can be an even more economical alternative. For greater convenience, you can book a private transfer in advance, especially if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or in a group.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those who plan not only to visit the city but also to explore the picturesque surroundings of the state of Bahia. Counters for local and international rental companies may be present at the airport. The cost of renting an economy class car starts from approximately 100-150 Brazilian Reals per day. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the tourist season, to guarantee the availability of the desired vehicle and secure better rates.

Public Transport — the most budget-friendly way to get to the city. City buses may connect the airport with various districts, and the fare is just a few Reals. However, this option is less convenient for tourists with luggage, as routes and schedules may not always be obvious. If you wish to save money, check route information at the information desk in the airport. This method is more suitable for experienced travellers.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. Typically, both short-term and long-term parking options are available. The cost depends on the duration of parking.

It is worth noting that Teixeira de Freitas Airport mainly serves regional flights. For a wider selection of international and domestic destinations, travellers often use the larger Porto Seguro Airport, located approximately 135 km away.

Teixeira de Freitas Airport (TXF) is a small regional airport serving domestic flights. Its structure is extremely simple and clear, making it convenient for passengers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which is used for both departing and arriving travellers.

The terminal layout is very compact. All main zones are located in a single building, within walking distance of each other. You will not need shuttles or long walks. Immediately after entering the terminal, you find yourself in the general hall, from where it is easy to orient yourself. The Departure Zone includes several airline check-in counters and a security screening point. After passing control, passengers enter a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The Arrival Zone is a separate sector with a baggage claim belt and an exit to the main hall, where you can meet arriving passengers or find transport to the city.

Thanks to the airport's modest size, all pre-flight formalities generally proceed very quickly. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in major aviation hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5–2 hours before departure, to check in luggage and complete all procedures without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs that will help you find check-in counters, the screening area, and the boarding gate. Since everything is located very close by, it is practically impossible to get lost. This compact and simply designed terminal is ideal for those who value a quick and calm start or end to their journey through Brazil.

The history of Teixeira de Freitas Airport (TXF), also known as 9th of May Airport (Aeroporto 9 de Maio), is closely intertwined with the development of the city of the same name and the entire southern region of the state of Bahia. The air harbour was officially opened on May 9, 1990, which gave it its second, more symbolic name. Its creation was an important step to support the rapid economic growth of the city, which in those years was actively transforming into a key regional centre.

In the early stages of its existence, the airport was a small regional site, serving primarily flights on turboprop aircraft. It played an important role in ensuring transport accessibility for business representatives, particularly for the developing pulp and paper industry and the agro-industrial complex. For tourists, the airport served as a starting point for trips along the southern coast of Bahia, known for its picturesque beaches.

A key moment in the airport's history was the large-scale modernisation that began in the 2020s. The reconstruction project included a significant expansion and strengthening of the runway, the construction of a new, more modern and spacious passenger terminal, as well as the installation of new lighting signalling equipment. The main goal of these works was to bring the airport into compliance with requirements for receiving medium-haul aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, which opened up prospects for launching direct flights to major cities in Brazil.

Although Teixeira de Freitas Airport has not set records for passenger traffic on a national scale, its main achievement has always been and remains its contribution to the economic prosperity of the region. An interesting fact is its name — "9th of May Airport", which points directly to the date of its founding and is a subject of local pride. The transformation from a modest airfield into a modern transport hub is the main milestone in its history, symbolizing the growth and ambitions of the entire region.

Teixeira de Freitas Airport (TXF) is a small regional aviation hub, so the range of services here focuses on meeting the basic needs of passengers. The infrastructure is compact and easy to navigate, allowing you to orient yourself quickly upon arrival.

Dining and Shopping: A small café operates within the terminal building, where passengers can purchase beverages, coffee, and light snacks such as sandwiches and pastries. Options for a full lunch or dinner are absent. Retail outlets are limited to a kiosk with newspapers, souvenirs, and travel goods. There are no large stores, including Duty Free, here.

Lounges and Comfort: All passengers wait for their flights in the general departure hall. There are no specialised VIP lounges or business lounges provided at the airport. For the convenience of travellers, the terminal offers access to Wi-Fi, as well as several zones for charging mobile devices.

Financial and Medical Services: ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed on the airport premises. Currency exchange points are absent, so it is recommended to take care of exchanging money in advance. A medical station is available to provide first aid in emergency cases.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs: A mother and child room is equipped for passengers with children. The airport is also accessible for travellers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. For assistance with moving through the terminal and boarding the flight, you should contact your airline in advance.

Accommodation and Business Services: There are no hotels within the airport itself, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of Teixeira de Freitas, which is easily accessible by taxi. Conference rooms or business centres are not provided on the terminal premises.

Teixeira de Freitas Airport (TXF) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest and designed primarily for passengers wishing to have a quick snack before departure. There is no separation into terminals or large duty-free zones here, and all food outlets are generally located in the common hall before passing security control.

The basis of gastronomic offerings at the airport consists of small snack bars (lanchonetes). They are ideal for a quick snack. On the menu, you will most likely find classic Brazilian street food: the famous cheese bread `pão de queijo`, fried pastries `salgados` (for example, `coxinhas` with chicken or `esfihas` with meat and cheese), as well as sandwiches and pastries. This is a great opportunity to try authentic local snacks without leaving the airport building. Coffee, fresh juices, and refreshing beverages are always available.

If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is worth noting that there are no restaurants with à la carte service at Teixeira de Freitas Airport. The most you can count on is a more substantial sandwich or a set meal (`prato feito`), if available in the café's offering. For a wider selection and a substantial meal, we recommend eating at one of the numerous establishments in the city of Teixeira de Freitas before travelling to the airport.

Options for passengers with special dietary needs are limited. Vegetarians may find pastries with cheese or vegetables. For those avoiding gluten, a good choice might be `pão de queijo`, which is traditionally made from tapioca flour, or the popular Brazilian dessert açaí. However, it is worth remembering that these are not certified gluten-free products. Specialised vegan or Halal dishes are likely not available here. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city.

The opening hours of dining establishments are directly tied to the flight schedule. Usually, they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane departs, providing passengers with everything they need during the waiting period.

When planning a trip through Teixeira de Freitas Airport, use these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Despite it being a small regional airport, proper preparation helps avoid unnecessary stress. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly go through all procedures without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening zone. When passing security control, be ready to present electronics and remember the rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag.

If you have the opportunity to choose a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. Passengers with connections at other airports in Brazil should check in advance whether they will need to collect and re-check their luggage. Always allocate sufficient time between connecting flights, especially if they are operated by different airlines.

To save money, book tickets in advance and consider travelling during the off-season. You can also bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, along with light snacks. This will help avoid extra expenses at the airport. When entering the country from abroad, do not forget about customs control: fill out the declaration in advance if you are carrying goods subject to declaration, and keep all documents close at hand.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on further actions. Find out about your rights regarding the provision of meals, beverages, or hotel accommodation. To pass the waiting time, have a book, a charged power bank for gadgets, and headphones with you. Calmness and knowledge of your rights are your best helpers in unforeseen situations.