Cascais Municipal Aerodrome

Cascais Municipal Aerodrome, also known as Tires Aerodrome, is the exclusive air gateway to the **Lisbon Riviera**, where an atmosphere of privilege and comfort reigns instead of the usual hustle and bustle. This compact aviation hub serves as the premier alternative to the capital's main airport for private jets and business aviation, allowing travellers to find themselves on sunny beaches or golf courses just minutes after landing. Here, time flows differently: rapid procedures, a personalised approach, and the feeling that your journey through **Portugal** begins with a bird's-eye view over the picturesque Atlantic coastline.

Airport Features and Advantages:

• VIP Status and Comfort: The aerodrome specialises in serving private and business aviation, offering passengers premium lounges and expedited processing of all formalities without queues.
• Ideal Location: Located just 8–9 km from the centre of Cascais and a 20-minute drive from Lisbon, providing quick access to the luxury resorts of Estoril and Sintra.
• Regional Connections: It serves as a hub for Sevenair, which operates unique scheduled flights connecting Cascais with the northern and southern regions of Portugal (Bragança, Vila Real, Viseu, Portimão).
• Training Centre: One of the largest flight schools in Europe operates at the aerodrome, so training flights of future pilots are a common sight here.

• Official Airport Website: www.aerodromo-cascais.pt
• Help Desk Phone: +351 214 457 300
• Airport Address: Aeródromo Municipal de Cascais, Av. Amália Rodrigues, Tires, 2785-632 São Domingos de Rana, Portugal
• Email: amcascais@arcascais.pt
• Airport Social Media: Official Aeródromo de Cascais Facebook page
• Lost and Found Information: In case of lost items, it is recommended to contact the ground handler of your flight or the administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Assistance can be obtained at the information desk in the terminal or by calling the administration number +351 214 457 300.

Cascais Municipal Aerodrome is located in the locality of Tires, approximately 8–10 km from the historic centre of Cascais and just 20 km from the capital of Portugal. Thanks to the terminal's compact size and convenient location, getting here is quite simple, especially if you prefer a car or taxi. If you are arriving on an international flight at Lisbon Portela Airport, the trip to Cascais Aerodrome will take about 20–30 minutes by highway.

Taxi and Transfer

This is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the aerodrome, given its specialisation in business aviation. Popular ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt) work excellently in the region, as do traditional city taxi services.

• Travel Time: From the centre of Cascais or Estoril, the trip will take about 15–20 minutes. From the centre of Lisbon, it takes about 25–35 minutes (depending on traffic on the A5 highway).
• Cost: A trip from Cascais will cost approximately 10–15 Euros. A transfer from Lisbon will cost between 25 and 40 Euros.
• Tip: Indicate the destination to the driver as "Aeródromo de Tires", as locals often use this specific name.

Public Transport

There is no direct metro or train station immediately at the terminal, so travelling by public transport will require transfers and combining a train with a bus.

• Train + Bus: You need to take the suburban train (Linha de Cascais) to Parede or Carcavelos stations. From these stations, buses of the Carris Metropolitana network operate, stopping in the Tires area (stop near the aerodrome).
• Time and Cost: The total travel time from the centre of Cascais may take 40–50 minutes. The cost of the combined journey will be economical — about 3–5 Euros per person.
• Recommendation: This option is suitable only if you are travelling light. Transfers can be tiring with bulky luggage.

Car Rental

Travelling by private or rented car is an excellent choice for those planning to explore the Lisbon Riviera. The aerodrome is located next to the major A5 motorway (exit for Tires/São Domingos de Rana).

• Offices of several rental companies operate on the aerodrome territory and in the immediate vicinity.
• The roads are of excellent quality, and navigation via signs is intuitive.

Airport Parking

One of the main advantages of Cascais Aerodrome is the convenience of parking. Unlike large international hubs, the parking zone here is located literally a few steps from the terminal.

• Both short-term and long-term parking are available.
• Rates here are generally more democratic than at the capital's airport, and the availability of spaces for passengers of private flights and Sevenair flights is practically guaranteed.

Unlike large international hubs, Cascais Municipal Aerodrome (CAT) is designed to be as simple and intuitive as possible. You will not find endless travelators, multi-level transitions, or a complex gate system here. The entire airport complex is designed to minimise the passenger's time on the ground, ensuring a quick and comfortable departure.

Airport Structure and Terminals

In fact, the airport has one main terminal, which serves passengers of scheduled domestic flights and general aviation clients. However, given the specifics of the airport (orientation towards business jets), the infrastructure is divided into several functional zones:

• Passenger Terminal (Main Terminal): A small but cosy building where passengers of the regional airline Sevenair are served. It houses the check-in counter, security screening area, and a compact waiting hall.
• VIP Terminals (FBO): Separate operators (such as Omni Handling or Safeport) operate for private flights and business aviation. These are effectively private lounges with separate entrances, where passengers go through all formalities in an exclusive setting, often with direct access to the apron and the aircraft.

Map and Navigation

Navigation at Cascais Airport is elementary. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all key points are within direct line of sight. The airport is a compact complex located along the runway.

• Departure Zone: The entrance to the terminal is located directly from the parking side. The distance from the car door to the check-in counter is no more than 20–30 metres.
• Arrival Zone: After landing, passengers reach the terminal in just a couple of minutes. Baggage claim (for Sevenair flights) happens very quickly, often manually or on a small belt, as the volume of cargo on small aircraft is low.

Transfers Between Terminals

Since the airport does not have an extensive system of buildings, the concept of "transfer between terminals" does not exist here. Movement between the main building and hangars or VIP zones is done on foot or via a special transfer (minivan) accompanied by airport staff, if necessary.

Features and Services in the Terminal

Despite its small size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a short wait:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the territory.
• A small cafe-bar where you can have coffee or a snack before departure.
• Restrooms, equipped also for people of determination (people with disabilities).
• Border Control Service (SEF) for flights arriving from outside the Schengen area (operates upon request or schedule).

Procedure Times

The main advantage of Cascais is speed. The long queues characteristic of Lisbon are absent here.

• Check-in and Security: Procedures take mere minutes.
• Recommended Arrival Time: For passengers of scheduled Sevenair flights, arriving at the airport 30–40 minutes before departure is sufficient. For private aviation passengers, arrival time is often determined individually and can be as little as 15–20 minutes before takeoff.

Navigation Recommendations

If you are departing on a scheduled flight, follow the signs to the main entrance marked Aeródromo Municipal de Cascais. If your flight is operated by a private jet, check with your broker or pilot exactly which FBO (operator terminal) the departure will be from — they may have separate entrances and parking lots located next to the main building.

The history of Cascais Municipal Aerodrome is a classic example of how a private initiative by enthusiasts turned into an important strategic asset for the entire region. What is today a gateway for business aviation began as a modest dream of the skies over the Portuguese Riviera.

Birth of the Airport: The Era of Romance

The aerodrome owes its existence to the passion of one man — the Count of Monte Real (Conde de Monte Real). It was on his initiative that the first runway was built on the site of the current complex.

• 11 October 1964: This date is considered the official birthday of the aerodrome. On this day, the grand opening of the facility took place, which was then private in nature and intended for aviation enthusiasts and the aero club.
• Presidential Blessing: The then President of Portugal, Américo Thomaz, attended the opening ceremony, immediately giving the new aerodrome a high status.

Transformation and Development

Over time, it became clear that the fortunate location near Lisbon and the fashionable resorts of Estoril required a larger scale. Management passed to the Municipality of Cascais, which began systematically developing the infrastructure, turning the aerodrome from an amateur club into a professional aviation hub.

Historical Milestones and Visits

Tires Aerodrome (as locals often call it) has repeatedly been the scene of important events:

• Papal Visit (1991): One of the brightest pages in the airport's history was the arrival of John Paul II. The Pontiff used Cascais Aerodrome during his pastoral visit to Portugal. This event required unprecedented security measures and demonstrated the airport's ability to receive delegations of the highest level.
• Rescue Base: Historically, the airport plays a key role in the region's civil defence, serving as a base for firefighting aviation and air ambulance flights.

21st Century Modernisation

In recent decades, the airport has undergone massive reconstruction to meet strict international standards of safety and comfort.

• The 2000s: Works were carried out to extend the runway and install modern navigation equipment. This allowed for the reception of heavier business jets, which previously could only land in Lisbon.
• Night Flights: The installation of a modern lighting system allowed the airport to operate after dark, significantly increasing its appeal for business aviation.
• International Certification: The airport received international status, enabling direct flights outside the Schengen area (with passport control on-site).

Interesting Facts

Over the years, the airport has accumulated quite a few curious features:

• Training Ground: Cascais is considered the unofficial "training desk" of Portuguese aviation. The country's leading flight schools are based here, and most pilots of the national carrier TAP Air Portugal made their first takeoffs from the runway in Tires.
• Cinematic Appeal: Thanks to picturesque views and the absence of huge crowds of passengers, the aerodrome is periodically used as a filming location for car commercials and movie scenes where a beautiful setting with a private plane is required.

The infrastructure of Cascais Municipal Aerodrome differs significantly from what passengers are accustomed to in large international hubs. Here you will not find endless rows of duty-free shops or food courts with fast food. All service in Cascais is built around the concept of "fast, exclusive, and functional". Services are primarily oriented towards business aviation passengers and those who value their time.

Restaurants and Dining

The gastronomic component of the airport is modest but atmospheric. It is not just a place for a snack, but a location popular even among locals who are not flying anywhere.

• Cafe-Restaurant with Runway View: An establishment operates on the aerodrome territory (often simply called the "Aero Club" or terminal cafe), famous for its open terrace. It is an ideal place to drink a cup of Portuguese coffee (bica) or have lunch while watching private planes take off and land.
• Assortment: The menu usually features local cuisine dishes, snacks, fresh pastries, and beverages. For passengers of morning Sevenair flights, this is an excellent opportunity to have breakfast before departure.

Shops

Shopping in the usual sense (Duty Free, souvenirs, clothing) is absent in the terminal. The compactness of the airport implies that passengers arrive shortly before departure and do not spend time shopping.

• If you need to purchase essentials, press, or souvenirs, it is recommended to do so in advance in the city of Cascais or at nearby shopping centres (for example, Oeiras Parque or CascaiShopping, located a 10–15 minute drive away).
• In the FBO zone (private aviation terminals), small showcases with premium accessories or products for pilots may be available.

VIP Lounges and Business Services

Since the aerodrome specialises in business aviation, the level of comfort here corresponds to the VIP class by default.

• FBO Lounges: Private flight operators (such as Omni Handling, Safeport) have their own luxurious lounges. Here, passengers are offered soft sofas, satellite TV, refreshments and hot beverages, as well as complete privacy.
• Conference Facilities: The operator buildings and airport administration have small meeting rooms where an urgent meeting can be held immediately after arrival or before departure. These services are provided upon prior request.
• Wi-Fi and Work: Free wireless internet is available both in the general terminal and in VIP zones, ensuring stable connectivity for work. Charging stations for gadgets are located in waiting areas.

Financial Services

There are no full-fledged bank branches or currency exchange points in the terminal. This is because Portugal is part of the Eurozone, and the main flow of passengers arrives from EU countries or via domestic flights.

• ATMs: A Multibanco network ATM may be available on the territory for withdrawing cash Euros. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to carry a small amount of cash or a card, as opportunities to withdraw money may be limited.
• Currency Advice: Visitors from the UAE should exchange currency to Euros prior to arrival or use ATMs in the city.

Services for Passengers with Children

Specialised playrooms or mother-and-child rooms are not provided in the public terminal due to the short waiting time for flights.

• Airport staff are always ready to assist families, ensuring priority boarding and help with strollers.
• Restrooms have changing tables.
• Thanks to the absence of crowds and noise, the atmosphere in the airport is calm, which is comfortable for young travellers.

Accessibility

Cascais Aerodrome fully complies with European standards for serving passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).

• The terminal is single-story, eliminating the need for elevators and stairs.
• Entrances are equipped with ramps, and doorways are widened.
• There are specially equipped restrooms.
• When booking a ticket (for a Sevenair flight) or chartering, it is necessary to notify the carrier in advance about the need for special assistance — staff will meet you at the car and help you reach the aircraft.

Medical Assistance

There is no pharmacy or full clinic at the airport. However, considering the facility's status in civil protection, rescue services are constantly on duty at the aerodrome.

• Security and terminal staff are trained in first aid.
• In case of serious illness, an ambulance is called from the nearest hospital (Hospital de Cascais), located just a 10-minute drive away.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels on the aerodrome territory itself, but thanks to the convenient location in the Tires area, the choice of accommodation is quite wide. You can stay in budget guest houses in the immediate vicinity or in luxury hotels on the coast.

• Within a 1–3 km radius (Tires, São Domingos de Rana): Small private hotels and apartments are located here, convenient for transit overnight stays or for crews.
• Within an 8–10 km radius (Cascais and Estoril): Most tourists prefer to stay here, by the ocean. A taxi ride from the aircraft steps to the reception of a five-star hotel (for example, the famous Palácio Estoril or hotels in the Cascais Marina) will take no more than 15–20 minutes. This makes the aerodrome an ideal arrival point for those heading to the resorts of the Lisbon Riviera.

The culinary scene at Cascais Airport (CAT) fully reflects its intimate and exclusive character. You will not encounter noisy food courts or fast-food giants here. Dining is organised to meet the needs of two categories of visitors: those who want to leisurely enjoy lunch with a view of the planes, and business aviation passengers who value privacy and speed.

Main Restaurant and Cafe

The main attraction for all guests is the restaurant-cafe located in the public area (landside). This establishment is popular not only with passengers but also with locals, pilots, and spotters, thanks to its unique atmosphere.

• Location: The restaurant is in the main building, next to the terminal entrance. The main feature is the spacious open terrace facing directly onto the apron and runway.
• Atmosphere: Relaxed and informal. Here you can watch the takeoffs of business jets and training aircraft literally from a distance of a few dozen metres.
• Cuisine: The menu is based on traditional Portuguese cuisine. It is an ideal place for a full lunch before departure or meeting arrivals.

What to Try

Since the menu focuses on local authenticity, it is recommended to order classic Portuguese dishes prepared in a home-style manner:

• Prato do dia (Dish of the Day): A daily changing offer, which usually includes fresh fish (e.g., grilled sea bream or sea bass) or meat with a side dish.
• Bitoque: The famous Portuguese steak served with an egg, French fries, and rice — a hearty option for those who want a substantial lunch.
• Coffee and Desserts: Be sure to order a cup of strong espresso (bica) and a traditional Pastel de Nata pastry or homemade cake.

Dining in VIP Terminals (FBO)

For private flight passengers departing through separate operator terminals (e.g., Omni or Safeport), dining is organised differently. In these zones (airside), there are no public restaurants, but premium catering is offered.

• Lounge Zones: In FBO waiting lounges, complimentary snacks, fresh fruits, refreshments, premium beverages, and high-quality coffee are available.
• In-flight Orders: If you require a full meal during the flight, ordering dishes from the best restaurants in Lisbon or Cascais is arranged through your broker or operator in advance.

Dietary Requirements and Special Requests

The selection of specialised dishes in the public cafe is limited due to the small size of the kitchen.

• Vegetarians: You can always find vegetable soup (traditional Portuguese purée soup) and fresh salads on the menu. Omelettes with various fillings are also often available.
• Vegan and Halal Options: Specialised options may not always be available on the standard menu. If you follow a strict diet, it is recommended to check the ingredients with the waiter or bring a light snack with you. For VIP passengers, any gastronomic requests, including Halal catering, can be fulfilled via prior order.

Prices and Opening Hours

The pricing policy at Cascais Airport differs pleasantly from large international hubs — there is no so-called "airport markup" here.

• Average Bill: A full lunch with a drink will cost approximately 10–15 Euros per person. Coffee and pastries will cost about 2–4 Euros.
• Opening Hours: The restaurant is usually open from 08:00 to 20:00 (may change depending on the season and flight schedule), adjusting to daylight hours and aerodrome activity.

Recommendations for Passengers

• For a Quick Snack: If there is little time left before a scheduled Sevenair flight departure, limit yourself to coffee and toast (tosta mista) in the cafe. Service is fast, but hot dishes may take 15–20 minutes to prepare.
• After Security Screening: Please note that in the sterile zone (after security control in the main terminal), there are no full food outlets, only vending machines with water and snacks. Therefore, it is better to refresh yourself in the restaurant before passing through control.

Travelling through Cascais Municipal Aerodrome is fundamentally different from the experience in large international hubs. Here there is no stress, multi-kilometre walks, or commotion. To make your flight go as smoothly as possible, we have prepared a number of useful tips considering the specifics of this small but cosy aviation hub.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early". In Cascais, time flows differently.

• For Scheduled Flights (Sevenair): It is recommended to arrive at the terminal 30–45 minutes before departure. This time is quite sufficient to check in calmly and drop off luggage. Check-in usually closes 20 minutes before departure.
• For Private Flights: Arrival time is agreed individually, but often passengers can arrive just 15–20 minutes before takeoff.
• Tip: Do not arrive too early. In the sterile zone (after security), there is practically no entertainment, so it is better to spend extra time in the cafe with a terrace before passing through control.

Check-in and Pre-flight Security

Procedures here take place in a homely, almost family-like atmosphere, but safety rules are strictly observed.

• Documents: Be sure to keep your ID card or passport with you. Even for domestic flights within Portugal (for example, to Portimão or Bragança), identity verification is mandatory.
• Security: Screening is standard for EU airports. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Electronics are scanned separately. There are practically never queues at the scanner.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: Specifics of Small Aircraft

This is perhaps the most important point for scheduled line passengers. Sevenair flights are operated on small turboprop aircraft (like the Dornier 228 or Jetstream), where space is limited.

• Strict Limitations: A standard "cabin size" suitcase (55x40x20 cm), customary for Airbus or Boeing, may not fit on the shelf or under the seat.
• Soft Bags: It is recommended to use soft travel bags or backpacks — they are easier to place in the cabin.
• Delivery at Aircraft: Be prepared that you may be asked to hand over your carry-on luggage to the cargo hold right before boarding the plane (Delivery at Aircraft procedure). You will receive it back immediately after landing.

Seat Selection

A flight from Cascais is always an excursion. Planes fly at a lower altitude than liners, revealing stunning views.

• Seating: On regional aviation flights, a free seating principle often applies, or seats are allocated at the check-in counter.
• Best Views: Try to take a window seat on the right side when flying south (towards Portimão) to enjoy the panorama of the Alentejo coast. When flying north (Bragança), interesting views of the Douro Valley open up from both sides.

Connections and Transfers

Cascais Aerodrome is not a transit hub in the usual sense. There is no system for through-checking luggage to flights of other airlines here.

• Changing Airports: If you arrive in Cascais to transfer to an international flight at Lisbon Airport (Portela), allow at least 3–4 hours for the connection. You will need to collect your luggage, take a taxi to Lisbon (30–40 minutes, but traffic jams are possible), and go through all procedures there anew.
• Risks: Remember that Sevenair flights and international flights from Lisbon are different tickets. In case of a delay of one, the second ticket may be forfeited.

Saving Time and Money

• Transfer: Do not overpay for hotel transfers. Uber or Bolt apps work excellently in Cascais; the car arrives directly at the terminal exit in 3–5 minutes, and the trip to the city centre will cost only 7–10 Euros.
• Dining: Prices in the restaurant at the aerodrome are quite democratic, but if you want to save money, ordinary supermarkets and local cafes are a 10-minute walk from the aerodrome entrance (in the village of Tires).

Actions in Case of Flight Delay

Small aviation is more sensitive to weather conditions (strong crosswinds or fog) than large liners.

• Where to Wait: If the flight is delayed, do not rush to go to the departure zone. Remain in the general hall or on the cafe terrace — it is more comfortable there, and more services are available.
• Information: Listen to staff announcements. In the small terminal, information is relayed verbally, and employees will always personally approach passengers to explain the situation.
• Rights: Despite the small size of the airline, flights are subject to general European compensation rules (EU Regulation 261/2004) in case of long delays or cancellations due to the carrier's fault.