Teofilo Otoni

Teofilo Otoni Airport (Aeroporto de Teófilo Otoni) serves as the aerial gateway to the Mucuri Valley, a picturesque and economically significant region in the state of Minas Gerais. For travellers seeking to discover the "world capital of precious stones", this small yet strategically important airport becomes the starting point of a fascinating journey through the unexplored corners of Brazil. It provides a key transport link for locals and business people, connecting the region with the country's major aviation hubs.

The main advantage of Teofilo Otoni Airport is its compactness and convenience. There are no long queues or complicated navigation here, allowing passengers to complete all pre-flight formalities quickly and without stress. The airport mainly handles regional flights, primarily to Belo Horizonte, the state capital, from where opportunities for connections to national and international destinations are available.

Despite its modest size, the airport plays a critically important role in the economy of the region, known for its mining and trade of precious stones such as topazes and aquamarines. For tourists, this is an excellent opportunity to avoid long bus journeys and reach the unique natural and cultural attractions of the Mucuri Valley more quickly. Basic amenities, including a waiting lounge and check-in counters, make waiting for a flight comfortable.

Below you will find the main contact information for Aeroporto de Teófilo Otoni - Kemil Kumaira (TFL), which serves the city of Teofilo Otoni.

• Official Website: This airport does not have a separate official website. For information on flight schedules and ticket booking, it is recommended to use the websites of airlines operating flights to Teofilo Otoni.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +55 (33) 3522-3737.
• Airport Address: Rodovia BR-418, km 5, Teófilo Otoni, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to contact via phone for all questions.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact the representative of the airline you travelled with directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Assistance to passengers is provided by airline staff at check-in counters, as well as airport personnel who can be reached via the general phone number.

Getting to Teofilo Otoni Airport (TFL) from the city centre of Teofilo Otoni is quite simple, as it is located close to the main districts. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several modes of transport. The trip usually does not take much time, but it is always better to leave with time to spare, especially during peak hours.

Taxi or Transfer is the most convenient and fastest, but at the same time the most expensive way to get to the airport. The journey from the city centre will take approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Taxis can be easily found in the city or ordered via an app. For greater peace of mind and a fixed cost, you can book a private transfer in advance. This option is ideal for travellers with large luggage or those who value comfort and speed.

Public Transport in the form of city buses is the most budget-friendly option, costing significantly less than a taxi ride. Although there may not be direct routes to the terminal itself, some buses pass near the airport, from where you can walk. It is recommended to check current routes and schedules on-site, as they may change. This is a good choice for economical tourists without heavy luggage.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom of movement not only for the trip to the airport but also for exploring the surroundings of Brazil. The cost will depend on the car class and rental period. You can rent a car at one of the rental points in the city and, by agreement with the company, leave it at the airport parking lot. Teofilo Otoni Airport has parking where you can leave a car for both short and long terms, which is convenient for those travelling with their own vehicle.

Although Teofilo Otoni Airport handles local flights, for a wider choice of destinations, including international ones, travellers often consider larger air hubs in the region. Among them are Governador Valadares Airport (GVR) and the major airport in Vitoria (VIX), offering a significantly larger number of flights.

Teofilo Otoni Airport (TFL) is a small regional air hub with a structure that is as simple and clear as possible for travellers. There is one passenger terminal functioning here, which handles all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its compact dimensions, navigating inside is very easy, even if you are here for the first time.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Essentially, it is a single-story building where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located. Departure and arrival zones are not separated into large complexes as in major airports. After check-in, passengers proceed to a small waiting lounge from where boarding takes place. The arrival area is also located here — luggage is collected in the main hall.

Since there is only one terminal, the question of transfers between them is irrelevant. All procedures take place within a single building. Check-in and security screening processes generally take very little time due to the low passenger flow. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

Navigation in the airport is intuitively clear, and getting lost here is practically impossible. All signs and zones are clearly visible. Please consider that this is a small regional airport, so the range of services here is basic. Do not expect a large number of shops, restaurants, or business lounges. The main advantage of Teofilo Otoni Airport is the speed and simplicity of service, making it convenient for short domestic flights.

The airport of Teofilo Otoni (TFL), officially known as Kemil Kumaira Airport (Aeroporto Kemil Kumaira), plays a key role in the transport system of the city and the entire Mucuri Valley region in Brazil. Its history is a reflection of the drive for economic growth and improved connections with the rest of the country.

The air harbour was officially opened in 1988. Its appearance was a real breakthrough for the region, which is famous for the mining and trade of precious stones. Air travel simplified logistics for businesses and made trips to major cities faster and more convenient. Throughout its existence, the airport has gone through several stages: periods of active regular flights alternated with quiet times, which was linked to the economic situation and changes in air carriers.

In recent years, the airport has become a focal point within regional infrastructure development programmes. Significant projects for modernisation and reconstruction have been initiated. The main works include updating the runway, expanding and refurbishing the passenger terminal, as well as improving navigation and security systems. The goal of these transformations is to allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and resume stable regular services.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport is named after Kemil Kumaira, a local politician who made a significant contribution to the development of the region. Although the airport cannot boast world records, its main achievement has always been and remains its strategic importance for the local economy. Every resumption of flights after a break has become a major event, confirming the indispensability of this air gateway for the prosperity of Teofilo Otoni.

Teofilo Otoni Airport (TFL) is a small regional air hub that provides passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Since the terminal is modest in size, the choice of dining establishments and shops is limited. Typically, you can find a small café or snack bar here, offering beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. There are no full-service restaurants or a wide range of shops, including Duty Free, at the airport.

For those who need to stay connected, charging points for electronic devices are usually available in the terminal building. The availability of free Wi-Fi should be checked on-site, as this service is not always guaranteed in small airports in Brazil. Specialized high-comfort waiting rooms or VIP lounges are absent at Teofilo Otoni Airport.

Financial services, such as bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points, are not represented in the terminal. It is recommended to settle all financial matters in advance in the city of Teofilo Otoni. In case first aid is needed at the airport, there is typically a medical point for emergency situations.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. There are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. To receive assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as to request a wheelchair, you should notify your airline in advance. For passengers with children, basic amenities such as baby changing tables in the restrooms are provided.

There are no hotels, business centres, or conference rooms on the airport territory. If you need to stay overnight or hold a business meeting, the nearest hotels and event venues can be found in the city of Teofilo Otoni itself, which is located a few kilometres from the air hub.

When planning a snack at Teofilo Otoni Airport (TFL), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport primarily serving local flights. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited and not comparable to the assortment found at major aviation hubs.

Usually, a small snack bar or cafeteria operates within the single terminal. Here, passengers can purchase basic beverages such as coffee, water, and soft drinks, as well as light snacks: sandwiches, packaged pastries, and crisps. This is a convenient option to quickly satisfy hunger before departure.

Although you are in Brazil, do not expect a wide selection of local cuisine here. You might be lucky enough to find the famous Brazilian cheese bread, pão de queijo, in the cafeteria. Unfortunately, specialized options for passengers with specific dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal-certified meals) are likely to be absent. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you.

All food outlets are located in the public area before security control (landside), and their opening hours are closely tied to the flight schedule. If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is strongly recommended to do so beforehand in the city of Teofilo Otoni, as the airport only offers opportunities for a quick and light snack.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Teofilo Otoni goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, take advantage of our tips. These simple recommendations will help save time, money, and nerves, making the start or end of your trip around Brazil as comfortable as possible.

Airport Arrival Time. Teofilo Otoni Airport is not a major international hub, so there are usually fewer queues here. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete all pre-flight formalities.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. Security checkpoints here are standard, but small queues are possible during peak hours. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance and be ready to remove electronics and liquids from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If there is an opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Seats by the window will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while seats by the aisle will allow you to stand up freely and be among the first to exit the plane upon arrival.

Hand Luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Be sure to check the allowance for hand luggage and checked baggage on your airline's website, as they may differ.

Connecting Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Teofilo Otoni. Since this is a small airport, transfers between gates usually do not take much time, but it is always useful to have a terminal map at hand.

Customs Control. For flights within Brazil, there is no need to pass customs control. It is relevant only for passengers arriving on international flights, which is a rarity for this airport. If you are flying from abroad, be prepared to present your passport and, if necessary, fill out a declaration.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets and airport transfers in advance to get the best prices. Bring an empty water bottle to fill it after passing security control and avoid spending on beverages. Travelling light, with only hand luggage, will also save you time waiting for baggage.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. It is useful to have travel insurance that covers such cases.