Vacaria

Vacaria Airport (VCC) is a compact and welcoming air hub located in southern Brazil, serving as the main gateway to the picturesque "Campos de Cima da Serra" region. This aviation facility is perfect for travellers wishing to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Brazilian highlands and visit the famous canyons while avoiding the bustle of large metropolises. Thanks to its location and tranquil atmosphere, the airport offers passengers a unique sense of adventure immediately upon landing.

Despite its modest size, the airport plays a vital role in regional logistics, connecting remote corners of the state of Rio Grande do Sul with major centres. Small private jets and regional flights frequently land here, giving the place a special charm of exclusivity and privacy. For tourists, this is not just a transit point, but the first step towards exploring the natural wonders of the region.

Airport Features and Advantages:

• Proximity to Nature: The airport is an ideal starting point for visiting national parks and famous canyons such as Itaimbezinho and Fortaleza.
• No Queues: Low passenger traffic guarantees a quick passage through all pre-flight formalities and the absence of the stress typical of large hubs.
• Personal Approach: The compact terminal creates a cosy atmosphere where staff pay attention to every passenger.
• Regional Accessibility: Its convenient location allows for quick access to Vacaria city centre and key tourist routes via taxi or transfer.

Since Vacaria (VCC) is a small regional airport, many administrative issues are handled through city services or directly by the airlines (e.g., Azul Conecta). Below are the current contact details:

• Official Website: The terminal does not have its own website. Reference information can be found on the official portal of the Vacaria Prefecture: www.vacaria.rs.gov.br
• Airport Address: Rodovia BR-285, Km 134, Vacaria - RS, Brazil.
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (54) 3231-6400 (General phone number of the Vacaria Prefecture, which oversees infrastructure operations). There is no direct public number for the terminal.
• Email: There is no public e-mail provided for passenger enquiries. It is recommended to use the feedback forms on the city administration or airline websites.
• Social Media: Current news about the region and transport is often published on the Prefecture's pages (Prefeitura de Vacaria) on social networks.
• Lost & Found Information: There is no separate "Lost & Found" counter in the terminal. In case of lost items, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For questions regarding schedules, check-in, and flight status, it is best to contact the call centre of the operating airline (e.g., Azul Linhas Aéreas / Azul Conecta).

The transport infrastructure of Vacaria Airport corresponds to its status as a small regional air harbour. Since the terminal is located approximately 13–15 km from the city centre, the choice of transport methods is limited but quite convenient for travellers who value time and comfort. The main transport artery connecting the airport to the city is the federal highway BR-285.

Taxi and Transfer

The most reliable and popular way to get to or from the airport is to use taxi services or ride-hailing apps. Aggregators popular in Brazil (such as Uber or 99) operate in Vacaria; however, due to the terminal's distance from residential areas, the waiting time for a car may be extended.

• Travel Time: The trip from the city centre (Praça General Daltro Filho) to the airport takes about 15–20 minutes assuming no traffic jams on the highway.
• Cost: The estimated price of a taxi ride or app booking is between 30 and 50 BRL (Brazilian Reals), depending on the time of day and tariff.
• Recommendation: If you have an early flight, it is recommended to arrange a driver in advance or order an official city taxi through your hotel, as there may be no cars in the airport zone upon arrival.

Car Rental

For tourists planning to visit the famous canyons of the Campos de Cima da Serra region, renting a car is the best solution. This provides freedom of movement through the picturesque surroundings.

• Rental points of well-known chain agencies (e.g., Localiza) are located primarily in the centre of Vacaria city.
• It is recommended to book a car in advance with a "meet & greet" option at the airport, as there may be no stationary rental counters inside the small terminal.

Public Transport

There is no direct public transport connection (metro, trains, or special shuttles) to the airport. Regular buses travelling along the BR-285 highway may stop on request near the turnoff to the airport, but you would have to walk from the highway to the terminal, which is extremely inconvenient with luggage. Therefore, tourists are strongly advised not to rely on buses.

Parking

An open parking zone is equipped in front of the terminal building. Since passenger traffic is low, spaces are usually always available. Parking is generally free but is not guarded, so it is not recommended to leave valuable items in the car cabin for long periods.

Alternative Airports Nearby

Since Vacaria receives a limited number of flights, many travellers prefer to fly into larger neighbouring cities and reach Vacaria by ground transport. Here is a list of the nearest aviation hubs that can serve as convenient alternatives:

• Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport (CXJ) — located in the city of Caxias do Sul, approximately 87 km from Vacaria. This is a popular option for those wishing to reduce travel time by land.
• Correia Pinto Regional Airport (EEA) — located 110 km away, serves the neighbouring region and may be convenient for certain routes.
• Passo Fundo Airport (PFB) — located at a distance of about 129 km. A good option for domestic flights within the state.
• Salgado Filho Airport (POA) — the main international hub of the state, located in Porto Alegre (174 km). Most international flights and aircraft from other regions of Brazil arrive here. From here, you can reach Vacaria by comfortable intercity bus or rental car in approximately 2.5–3 hours.
• Humberto Ghizzo Bortoluzzi (JJG) — an airport in Jaguaruna, nearly 194 km away, is an option for those travelling from the coast.

The structure of Vacaria Airport (VCC) is distinguished by extreme simplicity and functionality, which fully corresponds to its status as a regional air harbour. You will not find multi-level walkways or confusing corridors here — the entire airport complex is designed to make the journey as quick and straightforward as possible.

The airport features one single passenger terminal. This compact single-story building serves all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this intimacy, navigation here is intuitive: the entrance, check-in counters, and security zone are within direct line of sight of each other.

Terminal Zoning

The interior space of the terminal is rationally divided into main functional zones, which are located literally within walking distance:

• Check-in Zone: Located immediately upon entering the building. Here you will find airline counters (most often Azul Conecta), where passengers drop off luggage and receive boarding passes.
• Security Zone: The security control point is located right behind the check-in counters. The procedure is standard but proceeds much faster than in large hubs.
• Departure Lounge: A small sterile area equipped with seats for passengers awaiting boarding. The boarding gates are simply doors leading directly onto the apron.
• Arrivals Zone: The baggage claim sector is located near the exit to the city. Given the low passenger traffic, suitcase delivery is very prompt; sometimes baggage is unloaded manually by ground staff.

Service and Boarding Features

One of the main features of Vacaria Airport is the absence of jet bridges. Boarding and disembarking are carried out on foot across the airfield. This adds a special flavour to the flight, allowing passengers to breathe the fresh air of the Brazilian highlands from the very first minutes. Remember that movement on the apron must take place strictly along designated paths under the guidance of airport staff.

Time for Formalities

The absence of long queues is the main advantage of VCC. Processes that take hours in megacities require minutes here.

• Check-in and Security: Usually take between 5 to 15 minutes. Nevertheless, airlines recommend arriving at the airport 45–60 minutes before departure to avoid unforeseen situations.
• Leaving the Airport: Upon arrival, you can exit the terminal and get into a taxi just 10–15 minutes after the aircraft stops.

Recommendations for Passengers

The terminal offers only a basic set of amenities. There are restrooms and a small waiting area, but no Duty Free shops, international bank ATMs, or business lounges. It is recommended to arrange for water, snacks, and cash (Brazilian Reals) before arriving at the airport. It is impossible to get lost here, so you won't need a terminal map — simply follow the signs or ask the friendly staff, who are always within sight.

The history of Vacaria Airport, officially named Enore Angelo Mezari (Aeroporto Enore Angelo Mezari), is closely intertwined with the economic and cultural development of the Campos de Cima da Serra region. Unlike large capital hubs, this airfield began not as a massive state project, but as a vital necessity for connecting the highland areas with the rest of the state of Rio Grande do Sul. For a long time, it remained a modest site serving postal aviation, emergency services, and private pilots.

From Airfield to Airport

In the 20th century, as Vacaria established its status as the "National Apple Capital", the need for rapid logistics increased. The airfield was actively used by agronomists and businesspeople. During this period, the dirt runway was replaced with a hard asphalt surface, allowing for the accommodation of heavier vessels. However, for a long time, the facility remained purely utilitarian, without comfortable infrastructure for mass tourism.

Historical Milestone: 2021

The newest chapter in the history of the air harbour began quite recently. A significant milestone was the year 2021, when, after decades of waiting and planning, the grand opening (inauguration) of the new passenger terminal took place. This event marked the return of regular commercial flights to the region.

Collaboration with Azul Conecta (a subsidiary of Azul Linhas Aéreas) breathed new life into the airport. The launch of regular flights in 2021 on reliable Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft connected Vacaria with the state capital, Porto Alegre, and opened a convenient air route to the famous canyons for travellers from all over the world.

Modernisation and Safety

Parallel to the terminal construction, the airport underwent a series of important technical upgrades to meet the strict standards of the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC). Key projects included:

• Installation of modern lighting equipment to ensure night flights.
• Improvement of the runway drainage system, which is critical in conditions of frequent rainfall.
• Fencing of the territory to prevent wild animals from entering the airfield.

Interesting Facts and Features:

• Highland Character: The airport is located at an altitude of over 900 metres above sea level. Historical weather reports have recorded instances of flight cancellations or delays not due to fog, but due to snowfall and severe frost — a phenomenon extremely rare for Brazilian aviation.
• The Rodeo Phenomenon: Historically, the highest traffic at the airport is recorded not during the holiday season, but during the "International Crioulo Rodeo" (Rodeio Crioulo Internacional de Vacaria). During these days, the quiet airfield turns into a lively hive, welcoming hundreds of private planes from all over Latin America.
• Strategic Name: Naming the airport Enore Angelo Mezari was a tribute to local figures who contributed to the development of aviation and the region's economy, emphasising the inseparable link between the air harbour and the community.

The infrastructure of Vacaria Airport (VCC) fully reflects its concept as a regional "boutique airport". There are no noisy shopping galleries or huge food courts typical of international hubs here. Services and amenities are reduced to the necessary minimum, ensuring a comfortable wait for the flight in a calm environment.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

Due to the small size of the terminal, full-service restaurants or cafés inside the airport are absent. Passengers may have access to only basic services:

• Snacks and Drinks: A small coffee point or vending machines with water, soda, and light snacks may operate in the waiting area.
• Recommendation: If you are travelling with children or are accustomed to a substantial breakfast before flying, it is strongly recommended to eat in the city of Vacaria before leaving for the airport.
• Shops: There are no Duty Free zones or souvenir stalls in the terminal. Gifts and famous local apples are best purchased at city markets.

Connectivity and Work

For those who want to stay connected or handle work matters before departure, the following amenities are provided:

• Wi-Fi: A free Wi-Fi network is usually available for passengers in the terminal. However, connection speed may vary, so it is better to download "heavy" files in advance.
• Charging Stations: There is a limited number of power outlets in the waiting hall for charging mobile devices and laptops.
• Business Services: There are no separate business centres or conference rooms at the airport. Thanks to the quietness in the general waiting hall, it is quite suitable for short business calls or checking emails.
• VIP Lounges: High-comfort lounge zones are absent. However, the quick processing procedures make long waits irrelevant.

Financial Services

There are no ATMs or currency exchange points in the terminal building. Payment for taxi services or small expenses at the airport may require cash (Brazilian Reals). It is recommended to withdraw money at bank branches in the centre of Vacaria before your trip.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers

Despite its modest size, the airport strives to ensure an accessible environment and safety for all travellers:

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The single-story design of the terminal makes it convenient for wheelchair movement — there are no stairs or elevators. Boarding the aircraft (usually small Cessnas) is carried out using special ramps or with the direct assistance of trained airline staff. It is recommended to notify the carrier of the need for assistance 48 hours before departure.
• Passengers with Children: Basic baby changing facilities are provided in the restrooms. According to Brazilian law, passengers with children are entitled to priority boarding.
• Medical Services: There is no full-scale medical centre or pharmacy at the airport. Security and airline staff are trained to provide first aid. The nearest hospital (Hospital Nossa Senhora da Oliveira) is located in the city, a 15-minute drive away.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels within the airport territory or within walking distance. Since the terminal is located close to the city, passengers usually stay in the centre of Vacaria. A transfer to any of the hotels will take no more than 20 minutes.

• Pampas Hotel: A popular option with comfortable rooms, located at the entrance to the city from the BR-116 highway.
• Hotel Ponto 1: A convenient city hotel offering good value for money.
• Pousada Santa Teresa: A more atmospheric option for those who want to experience local colour.

Dining options at Vacaria Airport (VCC) are directly dictated by its status as a small regional air harbour. It is important for passengers to know that there is no full-scale food court, restaurants with hot meals, or bars here. Catering infrastructure is reduced to the necessary minimum designed for a short wait before a flight.

Cafés and Food Points in the Terminal

The single passenger terminal has an open layout. Snack options are limited and are located primarily in the general area (landside), before passing through pre-flight security:

• Snack Bar / Coffee Point: A small counter may operate in the hall, offering a basic selection: freshly brewed coffee, soft drinks, bottled water, and packaged snacks (crisps, biscuits, chocolate).
• Vending Machines: Often, self-service machines become the main source of food. This is the most reliable way to buy water or a light snack if the counter is closed.
• Opening Hours: Food points (if active) open exclusively according to the flight schedule. Service usually begins an hour before departure and ends immediately after passengers board. On days when there are no flights, the terminal and its services are closed.

Local Cuisine and Specialities

You won't be able to taste the famous dishes of the "Campos de Cima da Serra" region directly at the airport. However, if you have time before leaving for the airport, it is strongly recommended to visit establishments in the city of Vacaria itself. Before your flight, it is worth trying:

• Pinhão: Vacaria is known as the land of Araucarias. The seeds of this tree (pinhão) are the main local delicacy. In season, they are sold boiled or roasted. This makes for an excellent and filling snack for the road.
• Churrasco: Traditional Brazilian grilled meat. It is better to taste this dish in city steak houses (churrascarias) for a proper lunch before your flight.

Dietary Food (Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free)

Given that the airport's assortment is limited to industrially packaged snacks, there are no specialized options for people with strict dietary restrictions here.

• Recommendation: For vegans, those with allergies, and passengers observing Halal or Kosher diets, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Factory-packaged products are allowed in carry-on luggage.

Prices and Payment

The price range in vending machines and the coffee point is low/medium.

• Coffee and water: 5–10 BRL.
• Snacks and sandwiches: 10–20 BRL.

Tips for Passengers

For a comfortable journey through Vacaria Airport, stick to the following strategy:

• For a full meal: Eat in the city centre before taking a taxi. There are many excellent restaurants in Vacaria, and the journey to the terminal will take only 15–20 minutes.
• For a quick snack: Count only on coffee and biscuits at the airport.
• Water: After passing security (in the "airside" zone), there are no shops. If you need water for the flight, check with staff at the entrance if you can bring a bottle purchased in the general zone, as rules in small airports can be more lenient but depend on the security shift.

Travelling through a regional airport like Vacaria is a unique experience that differs significantly from flying through major international hubs. An atmosphere of tranquillity and almost "private" aviation reigns here. To make your flight as comfortable and surprise-free as possible, we have prepared a number of useful tips considering the specifics of small aircraft and the airport's highland location.

Optimal Arrival Time

Unlike in megacities, there is no need to arrive 2–3 hours before departure. Check-in and security checks are very quick.

• Recommended Time: Arrive at the airport 45–60 minutes before departure time. This is quite sufficient to check in luggage and pass security control without rushing.
• Risk of Lateness: Remember that check-in counters close strictly according to schedule (usually 30 minutes before departure). Since flights are typically operated by a single airline, staff may move to the boarding gate, and there will be no one left to reopen the counter.

Check-in and Security Nuances

Flights to Vacaria are often operated on small aircraft like the Cessna Grand Caravan. This imposes certain features on the processing procedure:

• Weighing: Be prepared for airline staff to ask to weigh not only your luggage but also your carry-on items, and in some cases, the passengers themselves (along with personal items). This is a standard procedure for the correct balancing of light aircraft.
• Documents: Keep your identification document (passport) handy. Digital versions of boarding passes are accepted, but it is safer to have a printed copy or a screenshot on your phone, as the internet in the terminal zone may work intermittently.

Carry-on Luggage: What is Important to Know

The main rule for flights to Vacaria is minimalism. Overhead bins for carry-on luggage in small aircraft are very small or non-existent.

• "Cabin Size" Suitcases: A standard wheeled suitcase (55x40x20 cm) will most likely not fit in the cabin. It will be collected free of charge at the steps into the cargo hold and returned immediately upon landing (a procedure known as Valet Check).
• Soft Bags: The best choice is a soft backpack or a small sports bag that can be placed under the seat.
• Valuables: Always keep medicines, documents, money, and fragile electronics in a small bag with you, as the main carry-on luggage may need to be checked into the hold.

Seat Selection and Views

A flight to this region is a real excursion. Planes fly at a relatively low altitude, allowing for a detailed view of the picturesque landscapes of Rio Grande do Sul.

• Cabin Configuration: Cessna aircraft usually use a 1+1 or 1+2 layout. This means that almost every seat is a window or aisle seat with an excellent view.
• Seat Allocation: Often on such flights, it is not possible to select a specific seat online in advance. The crew may seat passengers depending on the weight balance of the vessel. Follow the pilot's or ground staff's instructions — this is a matter of safety.

Customs and Transfers

Vacaria Airport serves exclusively domestic flights, so there is no customs or passport control here. You only pass through security checks (metal detector and X-ray for items).

• Transit: If Vacaria is a transfer point (which is rare) or you are flying with a connection through Porto Alegre, ensure your luggage is checked through to the final destination. If you have two separate tickets, allow at least 2–3 hours for the transfer at the hub airport, as small aviation is more sensitive to weather delays.

Tips for Economy and Comfort

• Dress in Layers: Vacaria is one of the coldest cities in Brazil. Even if it is hot at your departure point, upon arrival (or when walking onto the apron to the plane), you may be met by a piercing wind. A windbreaker or sweater in your carry-on is mandatory.
• Transport: To save time and money, try to cooperate with other passengers for a shared taxi ride to the city centre, as the number of cars may be limited.
• Food and Water: Buy water and snacks in the city. Prices in the airport vending machines may be inflated, and the selection extremely poor.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay?

Weather in the mountains is changeable. Fogs and strong winds are common causes for changes in the VCC airport schedule.

• Monitor the App: Install the airline app (usually Azul) to receive real-time notifications. In the small terminal, voice announcements may not be audible, or information screens may be absent.
• Plan "B": If the flight is cancelled due to weather, check with the airline about the possibility of a transfer by ground transport. The nearest major airport in Caxias do Sul (CXJ) is about a 1.5-hour drive away, where chances of flying out are higher.