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Ruben Berta Airport

About the Airport

Ruben Berta Airport (Aeroporto de Uruguaiana–Rubem Berta) is not just the air gateway to the city of Uruguaiana, but a key transport hub on the western border of Brazil. Located in a strategically important region, it serves as a starting point for travel throughout the state of Rio Grande do Sul and provides access to neighbouring Argentina and Uruguay. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a significant role in connecting this remote corner of the country with major Brazilian cities, ensuring convenience for business travel and tourism.

Ruben Berta Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars
IATA Code URG
ICAO Code SBUG
City Uruguaiana
Distance to Centre 9 km
Status Domestic
Passengers per Year About 15,000
Popular Airlines Azul Linhas Aéreas

The main advantage of Ruben Berta Airport is its compactness and efficiency. There are no long queues or the hustle and bustle typical of large air hubs. Check-in and security screening processes are quick, allowing passengers to arrive shortly before departure. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting Uruguaiana with key hubs such as Porto Alegre, from where you can continue your journey to any point in Brazil and the world.

Basic amenities are available for travellers, including a small café and car rental counters, which is particularly convenient for those planning to explore the Gaucho region on their own. Thanks to its unique location on the triple border, the airport is often used by tourists as a starting point for trips to the Argentine city of Paso de los Libres, located directly across the Uruguay River. This makes it an important gateway not only for domestic but also for cross-border tourism.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Uruguaiana Airport. We recommend checking the accuracy of the data on the official website before your trip.

  • Official Website: All current information about flights, services, and regulations can be found on the airport's official page on the operator CCR Aeroportos website: www.ccraeroportos.com.br/uruguaiana-rs.
  • Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can contact the airport administration by phone: +55 (55) 3413-1317.
  • Airport Address: Rodovia BR-472, s/nº, Km 583 - Aeroporto, Uruguaiana - RS, CEP 97510-010, Brazil.
  • Email: A direct email address is not provided. For communication, it is recommended to use the contact form in the "Fale Conosco" (Contact Us) section on the official website.
  • Social Media: Follow the news of the management company CCR Aeroportos on their official social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn).
  • Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you should first contact your airline's representative. Regarding items left in the airport terminal, please contact the Lost and Found service (Achados e Perdidos) via the administration phone number.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: The main airport information desk phone number is used for passenger support.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Ruben Berta Airport (Uruguaiana–Rubem Berta Airport, URG) from the city centre of Uruguaiana is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. The trip usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes, depending on the chosen transport and traffic situation.

Taxi and Transfer
The most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport is by taxi. Cars can be found at designated stands in the city or ordered by phone. The trip will cost a reasonable amount and ensure maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with luggage. Ride-hailing services via apps (such as Uber) may also be available in the city, offering a modern alternative to traditional taxis. For complete peace of mind, you can pre-book a private transfer that will meet you at your hotel at the appointed time.

Public Transport
For budget-conscious travellers, there is an option to use city buses. Although there may not be direct express routes to the airport, some city lines pass in the immediate vicinity. This option will require more time and possibly a short walk from the stop to the terminal. We recommend checking current routes and schedules on-site. There are no trains or metro services in Uruguaiana.

Car Rental
If you plan to move around the region actively and explore the surroundings, renting a car will be the ideal solution. You can rent a car both at the airport upon arrival and at one of the city offices of rental companies. This will give you complete freedom of movement during your journey through Brazil. The drive from the centre to the airport by car will take about 10 minutes.

Airport Parking
Parking is provided for those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicles. Options for both short-term and long-term parking are usually available. This is a convenient option if you are seeing someone off or leaving your car for the duration of your absence.

Terminals and Map

Ruben Berta Airport (URG) in the city of Uruguaiana is a compact and convenient aviation hub characterised by a simple and clear structure. It consists of one passenger terminal serving both domestic arrivals and departures. Such an organisation makes it ideal for travellers who value speed and a lack of hassle.

The terminal layout is intuitive. All key zones are located in one building a short distance from each other. Upon entering the main hall, you will immediately see the airline check-in counters. Departure and arrival zones are located nearby: after check-in, passengers proceed to a small waiting lounge through a single security checkpoint, while arriving passengers enter the baggage reclaim area, which is located near the exit to the main hall. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals.

Check-in and security screening procedures at Ruben Berta Airport usually take minimum time due to the low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. Inside the terminal, there are basic amenities, including a small waiting area and a café, allowing you to spend time comfortably before your flight.

To navigate the airport, simply follow the signs placed throughout the building. Due to its compact size, it is practically impossible to get lost here. If you have any questions, the airport staff is always ready to help. Overall, Ruben Berta Airport offers a calm and efficient starting point for travelling through Brazil.

Airport History

The history of Ruben Berta International Airport, located in the city of Uruguaiana, dates back to 1937, when an aero club was founded on this site. The strategic importance of this facility quickly became apparent, and by 1945, the first passenger terminal was built here. A significant step in development was the paving of the runway in 1948, which allowed for the reception of more modern types of aircraft.

In 1951, the airport received a new, more spacious passenger terminal. For a long time, the air harbour was under the management of the Brazil Air Force, but in 1974 it was transferred to the Department of Civil Aviation. A new stage in history began on January 15, 1980, when the airport came under the management of the state company Infraero, which contributed to its further commercialisation and infrastructure development.

A major modernisation was carried out in 2001, when the passenger terminal was significantly expanded and updated to meet modern service standards. The most recent change in management occurred in 2022: the airport was transferred to a 30-year concession to the private operator CCR Aeroportos, opening new prospects for its further growth and improvement.

Interesting fact: the airport is named after Ruben Martin Berta, the second employee and future president of the legendary Brazilian airline Varig. Today, Ruben Berta Airport is not only an important passenger hub but also one of the largest and busiest cargo terminals in the country. Its unique location on the border with Argentina makes it a key link in the logistics chain of the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR).

Services and Amenities

Ruben Berta Airport in the city of Uruguaiana is a small but functional regional aviation hub on the border of Brazil. It provides passengers with a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find a small café or snack bar where you can have coffee, grab a sandwich, or buy soft drinks. The selection of shops is limited, mainly consisting of newsstands, so for serious shopping, it is better to go to the city.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Power outlets for charging electronic devices can also be found in the waiting lounge. Please note that there are no specialised VIP lounges or business lounges at the airport; the waiting space is shared by all passengers.

Regarding financial services, ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed in the terminal. However, currency exchange points are absent here, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance at city banks. The airport is equipped to receive passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance provided during boarding and disembarking. There is also a medical point on the premises for first aid.

For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are provided where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. There are no hotels or conference halls within the airport itself, however, various accommodation options and business services can be found in Uruguaiana, which is located a few kilometres from the air hub. A taxi ride to the city centre will take about 10-15 minutes.

Where to Eat

When planning a snack at Ruben Berta Airport (URG), it is important to remember that this is a small regional terminal serving the city of Uruguaiana. Dining options here are quite modest and are primarily designed for passengers to quickly grab a coffee or a snack before departure, rather than for a full gastronomic experience.

Typically, in the main terminal hall, accessible to all visitors before security control, there is one or several small cafés. Here you can purchase a standard traveller's set: coffee, soft drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and, of course, the famous cheese bread pão de queijo — a popular snack throughout Brazil. This is the ideal place for a quick bite if you have a little time left before boarding.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, or those looking for gluten-free options) should note that choices for them may be extremely limited. It is recommended to bring food with you. If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is better to do so in advance at one of the city's restaurants. Prices at the airport are slightly higher than average city prices, and the opening hours of catering establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule.

Travel Tips

When planning a trip through Ruben Berta Airport in the city of Uruguaiana, use these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure for domestic flights. Although this is a relatively small airport and queues are usually short, extra time will allow you to complete all formalities without haste. To save time at the counters, always use the online check-in option if your airline provides such a service.

When passing through security control, be prepared to present laptops and other large electronics separately from your carry-on luggage for inspection. Remember standard restrictions on carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Any sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited in carry-on luggage. Saving money at the airport is simple: bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after the security check, and light snacks from home.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views, especially if you are flying during the day, while an aisle seat will provide more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport. Usually, when flying with a single airline, luggage is checked through to the final destination.

Since the airport is located in a border region of Brazil, pay attention to customs control during international travel. Familiarise yourself in advance with the rules for importing and exporting goods and currency, and declare relevant items if necessary. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. They are obliged to provide you with current information and, depending on the length of the wait, provide drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation.

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