Pico Island Airport

Arriving at Pico Airport is not merely a logistical step, but an exciting beginning to an adventure on the "Grey Island" of the Azores archipelago. The runway here is laid practically at the ocean's edge, with the majestic Mount Pico—the highest mountain in Portugal—towering in the background. This air gateway is renowned for its cosy atmosphere and incredible panoramic views that greet passengers even before they touch the ground. The airport serves as the ideal starting point for travellers dreaming of whale watching and walking through the unique UNESCO heritage vineyards.

Airport Features and Highlights:

• Incredible views upon landing. The airport is situated in one of the most picturesque locations of the archipelago. During descent, passengers can enjoy dramatic landscapes: on one side, the boundless Atlantic Ocean and the neighbouring island of Faial, and on the other, the monumental cone of the Pico volcano.
• Compactness and speed of service. Thanks to the terminal's small size, all procedures—from check-in to baggage claim—are completed as quickly as possible, without the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs.
• Modern infrastructure. Despite its status as a regional airport, the terminal has been modernised and offers travellers a comfortable departure lounge, free Wi-Fi, and a café featuring local pastries.
• Convenient logistics. The airport is located just a 10–15 minute drive from the island's main town, Madalena, allowing you to begin your holiday almost immediately after arrival.

Below you will find contact information for Pico Airport (PIX), which will help you plan your trip and communicate with its services.

• Official Airport Website: www.aeroportopico.pt (managed by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal).
• Information Desk Phone: +351 292 628 480.
• Airport Address: Aeroporto do Pico, 9950-000 Bandeiras, Ilha do Pico, Açores, Portugal.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the management company's contact email: ana@ana.pt.
• Social Media: The airport is represented within the official pages of ANA Aeroportos de Portugal on popular social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance, you may use the main airport information phone number.

Getting to Pico Airport (PIX), located approximately 8 km from the centre of Madalena, is possible via several methods. The best choice depends on your budget, time, and plans for further travel around the island, which is part of Portugal.

Taxi and pre-booked transfer — the fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport. The journey from the centre of Madalena takes just 10-15 minutes. Taxis can be found at designated stands in the town or called by phone. The cost of the trip is moderate, though it is the most expensive of the available options. Pre-booking a transfer can be a good idea if you are travelling in a large group or with bulky luggage, or if your flight is early in the morning or late at night.

Car Rental — an extremely popular and practical choice for travellers on Pico Island. By renting a car, you not only solve the airport transfer issue but also gain complete freedom of movement to explore the island's stunning landscapes. Car rental desks are located both at the airport and in Madalena. It is strongly recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during the high tourist season (June to September), to guarantee availability and secure the best rate.

Public Transport on the island is provided by buses. This is the most budget-friendly option, however, it requires planning. Bus routes connect major settlements, including Madalena, but their schedule may be infrequent, and the stop might not be directly at the terminal. Be sure to check the current timetable on the local operator's website (Cristiano Limitada) before your trip to ensure it aligns with your flight time.

Airport Parking. If you are travelling in your own or a rented vehicle, you can use the parking facilities at Pico Airport. Both short-term and long-term parking options are available, which is convenient if you plan to leave the car while visiting another island in the Azores archipelago.

Pico Airport (PIX) is a compact and modern regional airport serving the island of the same name in the Azores archipelago. Its structure is as simple and convenient as possible for passengers, making travel through it quick and stress-free.

The airport has just one passenger terminal, which primarily serves domestic flights connecting the island with other islands of the Azores and mainland Portugal. Due to its small size, it is practically impossible to get lost here. The terminal building is a single space where all necessary zones are logically grouped: check-in counters, security screening, the departure lounge, and the baggage claim area.

Departure and Arrival Zones are located in the same building but are clearly separated. After checking in for a flight, passengers pass through pre-flight security and enter a small but comfortable waiting hall with several boarding gates. The arrival zone is in another part of the building and includes a baggage carousel and an exit to the public area, where you can meet arrivals or take a taxi.

Completing all formalities usually takes minimal time. There are no long queues characteristic of large hubs. Check-in and security screening proceed very quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure to check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing. Navigation is intuitive, signage is present everywhere, and staff are always ready to assist.

Pico Airport (PIX), located on the eponymous island of the Azores archipelago, has a relatively short but extremely important history for the region. Its opening took place in 1982 and became a turning point for the island's residents, who previously had to rely on maritime transport or fly via the airport on the neighbouring island of Faial.

Initially, the airport was a small airfield with a short runway, capable of receiving only light propeller aircraft flying between the islands. The main stage of development was the large-scale modernisation work in the early 2000s. In 2004, reconstruction was completed, during which the runway was extended to 1,745 metres, and a new, more modern passenger terminal was built.

This expansion was a key achievement in the airport's history. It allowed for the reception of medium-haul jet aircraft, such as the Airbus A320. Shortly thereafter, SATA Air Açores launched direct scheduled flights connecting Pico with the capital of Portugal, Lisbon. This event significantly simplified logistics for tourists and locals and gave a powerful boost to the development of the tourism industry on the island.

One of the most interesting facts about Pico Airport is its impressive location. The runway is situated on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, with the majestic Pico volcano—the highest point in Portugal—rising in the background. Landing and taking off here offer passengers unforgettable views, which in themselves become part of the journey to this unique island.

Pico Airport (PIX), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal features a café-bar where you can have coffee, enjoy sandwiches, or try local pastries. There is also a small shop selling Azores souvenirs, newspapers, and travel essentials.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the SATA Plus Lounge, a waiting area where one can relax and have a snack in a quieter environment.

The airport is fully equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility. There are ramps and specially equipped restrooms, and staff are ready to provide assistance during boarding and disembarking (it is recommended to request this service in advance through the airline). For travellers with small children, baby changing tables are available in the restrooms.

ATMs are installed in the terminal building for withdrawing cash. Please note that there is no full-service currency exchange bureau at the airport, so it is best to arrange this beforehand. In case of need, there is a first aid point at the airport.

There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found in nearby towns, just a few minutes' drive away. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are not provided at Pico Airport, as it is primarily oriented towards serving tourist and regional flights.

Pico Airport (PIX) is a compact regional airport, so dining options are appropriate: convenient but not overly diverse. Do not expect a food court with a multitude of restaurants here, as in major hubs. The main options for snacks and relaxation are concentrated in one main café-bar, which serves all passengers.

The café is located in the general terminal area, before security control (landside), making it accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. This is an excellent place to have a coffee, eat a sandwich, or enjoy fresh pastries. For a quick snack, this is the ideal option. We advise paying special attention to local products: be sure to try something with Azorean cheese, for example, a sandwich with 'Queijo do Pico'—this is a wonderful way to experience local gastronomy before departure.

If you are looking for something more filling than a snack, the café usually offers substantial hot sandwiches or simple ready-made meals. However, a full restaurant menu with made-to-order hot dishes is generally not available here. The price range can be described as moderate, standard for a small European airport. Regarding opening hours, the establishment operates in accordance with the flight schedule, opening to serve passengers and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

Passengers with special dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, those with gluten intolerance, or those requiring Halal options) should be prepared for a limited selection. There are no specialised menus here. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff or, to be safe, bring a suitable snack with you to avoid inconvenience.

Travelling through Pico Airport, located in the town of Madalena, is generally a calm and predictable experience, as it is a small regional airport. However, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and avoid unpleasant surprises. The airport mainly serves flights between the islands of the Azores archipelago and mainland Portugal.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite the airport's modest size, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to check in and pass security control without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season. To save time, complete online check-in and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone in advance.

Security Control and Seat Selection. Procedures at Pico Airport usually proceed quickly. To ensure everything goes smoothly, prepare your documents in advance and remove liquids and electronics from your hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, we strongly advise booking one by the window. The views of the Pico volcano and the neighbouring islands of Faial and São Jorge during take-off and landing are truly unforgettable.

Hand Luggage. Standard EU rules apply: liquids may be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Please note that regional airlines, such as SATA Air Açores, may have strict restrictions on the weight and size of hand luggage—it is better to verify these in advance.

Connections and Customs. Most flights from Pico are direct. If you have a connection, ensure your luggage is checked through to the final destination. Since almost all flights operate within the Schengen Area, there is typically no customs control. Passport control is also absent on domestic flights.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book your transfer or car rental in advance—choices may be limited on arrival, and prices higher. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative. Remember your rights as a passenger in the EU (Regulation EU 261/2004). The small terminal has a café, but in case of a long wait, it is best to have a book or downloaded films with you.