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Teresina Airport

About the Airport

Teresina Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Teresina Airport, named after Senator Petrônio Portella, is the main aerial gateway to the state of Piauí and a symbol of transformation in the region. Located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre, this airport combines the convenience of an urban location with extensive modernisation carried out by the concessionaire CCR Aeroportos. For travellers, it is not merely a transit point, but the first introduction to Brazil's "Green City", where updated infrastructure is designed to ensure comfort even during the hottest season.

IATA Code THE
ICAO Code SBTE
City Teresina
Distance to Centre 4 km
Status Domestic
Annual Passengers ~1 million (2023)

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Recent renovations have transformed Teresina Airport into a modern transport hub, significantly raising the level of service for passengers. The terminal has become more spacious and technologically advanced, offering travellers amenities that were previously lacking in this important regional hub.

Exceptional Proximity to the City: One of the airport's main highlights remains its location — just 4 kilometres from the centre of the state capital. This allows you to reach major hotels and business centres in a matter of minutes, which is particularly valuable after a long flight.

A New Level of Comfort: During the modernisation, the departure area was tripled in size, solving the issue of overcrowding during peak hours. The greatest gift for passengers was the installation of jet bridges ("aerobridges"). Boarding and disembarking now take place in a cool environment, protecting guests from the famous heat of Piauí and tropical rains, which was previously impossible when walking across the apron.

Service and Prospects: The terminal's infrastructure is actively developing: the commercial area has been updated, and new cafes and shops have opened. As part of service improvements, the airport is also preparing to open The Lounge Teresina, a business lounge that will soon offer passengers an exclusive space for relaxation and work before their flight.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Teresina Airport (THE), which serves the capital of the state of Piauí in Brazil.

  • Official Airport Website: www.ccraeroportos.com.br/terezina-the. On the website, you will find up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
  • Information Desk Phone: For information regarding airport operations, you can call 0800 727 4720 (calls within Brazil).
  • Airport Address: Praça Santos Dumont, s/n - Aeroporto, Teresina - PI, 64006-900, Brasil.
  • Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the official airport website.
  • Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official pages of the airport operator (CCR Aeroportos) on popular social networks.
  • Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost items within the terminal, please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) service. Contact details can be found on the airport website. If your luggage was lost during a flight, you must contact your airline representative directly.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and assistance, including support for People of Determination (passengers with disabilities), please contact the main information desk phone number or airport staff at the information counters.

How to Get to the Airport

Teresina – Senador Petrônio Portella Airport (THE) is very conveniently located just 4 kilometres north of the city centre of Teresina, making the journey there quick and simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several modes of transport.

Taxi and Transfer: The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport is by taxi or ride-hailing services popular in Brazil, such as Uber. A trip from the city centre will take just 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Given the short distance, the cost of the trip will be quite moderate. This is an ideal option if you are travelling with luggage or value your time.

Public Transport: For a more budget-friendly journey, you can use city buses. Some routes pass in the immediate vicinity of the airport. This is the most economical option, however, it may be less convenient if you have heavy suitcases and will require a little more time. Information on suitable routes and schedules is best checked locally.

Car Rental: If you plan to explore the surroundings of Teresina and the state of Piauí, an excellent solution would be car rental. Offices of several rental companies are located directly in the airport terminal. To ensure the best choice and price, it is recommended to book a car in advance online, especially during the peak tourist season.

Airport Parking: For travellers arriving in their own or rented vehicles, paid parking is provided on the airport grounds. Options are available for both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you have come to see someone off or pick them up, or wish to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Terminals and Map

Teresina Airport (THE) is a compact and functional aviation hub serving domestic flights within Brazil. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making the experience comfortable even for those travelling for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. This significantly simplifies navigation, as all key zones are located in one building and within walking distance of each other. You will not have to worry about transfers between terminals or using shuttles — all processes are concentrated under one roof.

The terminal layout is logical and standard for regional airports.

  • Departure Zone: Usually located on the upper level or in the main part of the hall. Here you will find airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks, after which passengers proceed to the security screening area and then to the departure lounge with boarding gates.
  • Arrival Zone: Located on the ground floor. After disembarking from the aircraft, passengers enter the baggage claim hall, and then the general arrivals area, where they are met by greeters and where exits to taxis and public transport are located.

Thanks to the airport's compactness, completing all pre-flight formalities generally does not take much time. Check-in and security screening take on average from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how busy it is. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance — approximately 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure to avoid rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are in Portuguese and English. Since all major services — from check-in to baggage claim — are close to one another, getting lost here is practically impossible. If you have any questions, airport staff are always ready to assist.

Airport History

The history of Teresina Airport (THE), officially named in honour of Senator Petrônio Portella, began on 30 September 1967. Its opening was a significant milestone for the state of Piauí and all of northern Brazil, as the new airport replaced the old airfield and provided the state capital with a modern air harbour capable of receiving larger aircraft and fostering the region's economic development.

A key stage in the airport's development was 1975, when management was transferred to the state-owned company Infraero. Under its leadership, the airport began to be systematically modernised. The most significant reconstruction was completed in 2001. During these works, the passenger terminal area was more than doubled — from 2,500 to 5,600 square metres, which allowed for a significant increase in capacity and passenger comfort. Telescopic jet bridges were installed, and waiting lounges and check-in areas were updated.

In recent years, the airport's history has entered a new phase. In 2021, as part of the privatisation programme for Brazilian airports, management rights were transferred to the private operator CCR Aeroportos. This event marked the beginning of a new period of modernisation. The new concessionaire announced plans for further investment in infrastructure, including terminal expansion, runway improvements, and the implementation of modern technologies to enhance efficiency and service quality.

An interesting fact: the airport bears the name of Petrônio Portella Nunes, a prominent political figure from the state of Piauí who served as governor, senator, and Minister of Justice. This is a tribute to his contribution to the region's development. Throughout its history, the airport has played and continues to play a strategic role, serving as the main aerial gateway to the state and an important node connecting Teresina with the country's largest cities.

Services and Amenities

Teresina Airport (THE) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a quick sandwich, enjoy aromatic coffee, or have a full meal before departure. There are also shops selling souvenirs, travel essentials, press, and local delicacies, so you can buy gifts for loved ones or a memento of your trip to Brazil.

For relaxation before your flight, comfortable waiting lounges with ample seating are provided. Passengers seeking more privacy and comfort can utilise the services of the VIP Lounge (access conditions should be checked in advance). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and to ensure your gadgets do not run out of power at an inconvenient moment, charging stations are installed throughout the airport.

You can also handle financial matters at the airport. Passengers have access to ATMs and currency exchange points. In case of feeling unwell, there is a medical post in the terminal where first aid can be provided.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. Nursing rooms are equipped for families with small children. Passengers with limited mobility and People of Determination are provided with all necessary assistance, including accompaniment, and the terminal infrastructure is adapted to their needs: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several hotels for every budget are located in the immediate vicinity, which is convenient for those with an early departure or a long layover. For business travellers, conference rooms or business centres may be available. It is recommended to check the availability of such services and make reservations in advance.

Dining

Teresina Airport (THE) offers travellers several cosy establishments where you can have a snack or drink coffee while waiting for your flight. Although the selection is not comparable to major international hubs, you can find options for both a quick bite and a more substantial lunch.

Most establishments are concentrated in the main terminal. In the public area (before security screening), you will likely find a branch of the popular Brazilian chain Casa do Pão de Queijo. This is the ideal place to try the famous cheese buns with fresh coffee. After security control, in the "airside" departure zone, small cafes and snack bars (lanchonetes) also operate, where you can purchase beverages and sandwiches.

While in Brazil, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy local flavours. We recommend ordering traditional pão de queijo (warm cheese buns) or salgados — popular pastries with various fillings, for example, coxinha (with chicken) or esfiha (with meat). For a light and refreshing snack, acai bowls are an excellent choice.

Prices at the airport can be described as moderate, comparable to other regional airports in the country. Opening hours for most establishments are tied to flight schedules, so they are open from early morning until late evening. Specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes may be in limited supply, but vegetarians and those preferring meat-free options will easily find suitable choices, such as cheese pastries or vegetable snacks.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Teresina Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. Planning ahead will help avoid unnecessary stress and make the start or end of your trip to Brazil more pleasant.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This time is sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. Be prepared to present your passport and boarding pass at check-in counters and during security control.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection: Be sure to pack all valuables, documents, medication, and portable electronics in your hand luggage. Remember the standard restrictions on carrying liquids — no more than 100 ml in a single container. Sharp and flammable items are prohibited. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat ensures more legroom and freedom of movement around the cabin.

Transfers and Customs Control: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Upon arriving at the airport, immediately find information about your next flight on the display boards. When passing through customs, if you are not carrying goods subject to declaration, feel free to go through the "Green Channel". Be prepared for possible random checks, especially regarding food and agricultural products.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security control, and light snacks. Compare the cost of taxis and car-hailing apps to choose the most advantageous transfer option. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, do not panic. Contact your airline representative for information on further actions, provision of meals, or hotel accommodation, if provided for by the regulations.

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