João Paulo II Airport

João Paulo II International Airport is not merely a transport hub; it is the main aerial gateway to the Azores archipelago, where your true island adventure begins. Located on the picturesque coast of São Miguel Island, this airport welcomes travellers with a fresh ocean breeze and views of emerald hills even before they step out of the terminal. Named after the Pope who visited the islands in 1991, the air terminal combines the welcoming atmosphere of a small airport with the modern services necessary for a comfortable start to your journey across the Atlantic.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Ponta Delgada Airport is distinguished by its compactness and intuitive navigation: it operates with a single passenger terminal where it is practically impossible to get lost. This makes the process of security checks and baggage claim quick and calm, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in a holiday atmosphere without unnecessary stress. Despite its modest size, the infrastructure meets all international standards, offering travellers free Wi-Fi, a VIP zone, and comfortable waiting lounges.

Transport accessibility deserves special attention: the airport is located just a few minutes' drive from the historic city centre, allowing you to reach your hotel by taxi or bus in literally 10–15 minutes. The arrivals area features a wide selection of car rental desks, which is crucial for the Azores, where a car is the main means of transport. Additionally, in the airport shops, you can purchase unique local souvenirs, such as the famous Azorean pineapples, tea from the Gorreana plantations, and local vineyard specialties, to take a piece of the islands home with you.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for João Paulo II Airport (PDL).

• Official Website: www.aeroportopontadelgada.pt
• Information Service Phone: +351 296 205 400
• Address: Aeroporto João Paulo II, 9500-749 Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores, Portugal
• Email: You can contact the airport administration via the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the Portuguese airport network, ANA Aeroportos, on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Lost & Found: For items lost within the airport terminal, please contact via email at pdl.lost.found@prosegur.com or by phone at +351 961 283 503. If your query concerns checked baggage, you should contact your airline first.
• Passenger Support Service: For general information and support, please use the main information service phone number.

João Paulo II Airport (PDL) is located just 3 kilometres west of the city centre of Ponta Delgada, making the journey there quick and convenient. You can reach the terminal in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport: Shuttle Bus
The most economical way to get from the airport to the city and back is to use the dedicated shuttle bus (Aerobus). It operates on a route connecting the airport with key points in the city, including the centre and major hotels. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers and those travelling light. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver.

Taxi and Transfer
For those who value comfort and time, a taxi is the optimal solution. The taxi rank is located right outside the arrivals hall exit. A trip to the centre of Ponta Delgada will take no more than 10 minutes. The cost of the trip is usually around 10-15 Euros but may vary slightly depending on the time of day and luggage. You can also book a private transfer in advance—this guarantees a fixed price and a meet-and-greet service in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental
If you plan to actively explore São Miguel Island, renting a car is the most practical option. João Paulo II Airport hosts offices of many international and local rental companies. You can collect your car immediately upon arrival and drive comfortably to your accommodation. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to guarantee the availability of the desired model at a favourable price.

Airport Parking
For travellers arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicles, parking zones are provided. There are options for both short-term and long-term parking. Rates depend on the duration of the stay. This is a convenient option if you are seeing someone off, meeting someone, or leaving your car while travelling to other islands of the archipelago.

Ponta Delgada João Paulo II Airport (PDL) features a well-designed and passenger-friendly structure. It consists of one modern passenger terminal that serves all flights—both domestic and international. This significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building has two main levels:

• Ground Floor (Piso 0) — This is the Arrivals area (Chegadas). Passengers arrive here after landing. Located here are passport control counters for those arriving from non-Schengen countries, baggage reclaim belts, and customs control. The public hall houses car rental offices, ATMs, and the exit to taxis and buses.
• First Floor (Piso 1) — The Departures area (Partidas). Here you will find airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks. After checking in, passengers proceed to security screening, after which they enter the "airside" zone with boarding gates, Duty-Free shops, cafés, and waiting lounges.

Registration and screening procedures at PDL usually take less time than in major European hubs. However, during the peak tourist season (June to September), queues are possible. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure for Schengen destinations and 2.5-3 hours before international flights outside the Schengen zone.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the numerous signs, which are displayed in both Portuguese and English. Thanks to the building's compactness, you will reach one part from another easily and quickly. There is no need to worry about getting lost here—all key zones are within a few minutes' walk of each other.

The history of João Paulo II Airport, located in the vicinity of Ponta Delgada, begins in 1969. Its opening was a turning point for the Azores, which had previously been significantly isolated from the rest of the world. Initially known as Nordela Airport, it provided a vital link with mainland Portugal and other islands of the archipelago, contributing to the economic and social development of the region.

One of the most iconic events in the airport's history was the visit of Pope John Paul II to the Azores in 1991. This event held immense cultural and spiritual significance for the local population. In honour of the Pontiff, the airport was officially renamed, receiving its current title—Aeroporto João Paulo II. This gesture forever inscribed the airport's name in history.

With the growth of the Azores' popularity as a tourist destination, the need for expansion and modernisation arose. In 1995, a new passenger terminal was inaugurated, designed to serve the increased flow of travellers. In subsequent years, the infrastructure continued to improve: the runway was extended to accommodate larger long-haul aircraft from North America and Europe, and navigation and passenger service systems were updated.

Today, João Paulo II Airport is the main transport hub of the Azores archipelago. It not only receives and dispatches flights but also plays a key role in the prosperity of the islands, serving as a gateway for tourists from all over the world. Its history reflects the journey the Azores have taken: from a remote corner of the Atlantic to one of the most desirable destinations for eco-tourism, with the airport being an integral part of this amazing transformation.

João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in Ponta Delgada offers passengers a compact yet functional range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped to meet the basic needs of travellers.

Dining, Shopping, and Leisure

At the airport, you will find several cafés where you can enjoy coffee with famous Azorean pastries or have a snack before departure. For those wishing to buy souvenirs, shops offering local goods are available: from Azorean cheese and pineapple delicacies to handmade items. A Duty Free shop is also available with a classic assortment of perfumes, beverages, and sweets.

Lounges and Comfort

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, the SATA Plus Lounge (VIP) operates at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and attend to work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and waiting areas are equipped with power outlets and USB ports for charging electronic devices.

Financial and Other Services

The airport building houses ATMs (Multibanco) and currency exchange points. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with children. In case of necessity, you can contact the medical point for first aid. Travellers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance under the MyWay service—it is recommended to book this in advance through your airline.

Accommodation and Business Services

There are no hotels directly inside the airport building; however, in the city of Ponta Delgada, just a few minutes' drive away, there are many accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Dedicated conference rooms are not provided at the airport, but for business travellers, the VIP lounge can serve as a convenient place to work in silence.

Ponta Delgada João Paulo II Airport, despite its compact size, offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. The main catering establishments are located in the single passenger terminal and are available both in the public zone and in the departures area after security control.

In the public zone (landside), before passing through security, you will find a café. This is an ideal place to drink a cup of aromatic Portuguese coffee with the famous pastel de nata pastry while saying goodbye to those seeing you off or waiting for check-in to begin. Here you can order light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It is an excellent choice for those short on time.

After passing security control (airside), in the departures zone, the choice becomes wider. Here, passengers can relax while waiting for their flight in a more spacious lounge or restaurant area. Typically, there is an establishment offering not only beverages and sandwiches but also hot meals. For those who prefer familiar tastes, an international fast-food outlet may be available. This place is suitable for a more substantial lunch or dinner before your flight.

Being in the Azores, even at the airport, it is worth paying attention to local specialties. Try a sandwich with Azorean cheese, for example, with Queijo de São Jorge, or pick up some local sweets as an edible souvenir. We also recommend trying the local passion fruit soft drink – Kima. This is a great way to extend your acquaintance with the unique flavours of the region.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian sandwiches and salads are available in most cafés. Finding vegan or gluten-free dishes might be more challenging, so it is best to check the ingredients with the staff. The price range at the airport, as expected, is higher than the city average. Opening hours are usually aligned with flight schedules; they open with the first morning departures and operate until the last aircraft leaves, so you will not go hungry.

To ensure your journey through João Paulo II Airport (PDL) goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our useful tips. Serving the city of Ponta Delgada and the entire island of São Miguel, this airport is the key transport hub of the Azores, so a little preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Although the airport is not very large, it can get busy during the tourist season. We recommend arriving 2 hours before domestic flights (including flights to mainland Portugal and other Schengen countries) and at least 3 hours before international flights. To save time, complete online check-in and print or save your boarding pass on your mobile device in advance.

Security Check and Seat Selection: The security checkpoint is standard. Prepare liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and electronic devices in advance. When choosing a seat on the plane, if possible, book a window seat. During take-off or landing, stunning views of the volcanic landscape of São Miguel Island will open up to you.

Hand Luggage: Always check hand luggage allowances with your airline, as they may vary. Besides standard restrictions on liquids and sharp objects, remember that some local delicacies, such as soft cheeses, may be considered liquids. It is better to pack them in your checked luggage.

Connecting Passengers and Customs: Transfers at Ponta Delgada Airport are usually quick. If you are flying with different airlines or arriving from a non-Schengen country, check if you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Customs control for passengers arriving from EU countries is generally a formality. For other flights, standard customs rules apply.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, book a taxi or transfer online in advance. Inside the airport, after passing security, there are drinking fountains, so you can bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it with water. Keep all documents (passport, tickets, visa) in one easily accessible place to avoid wasting time searching for them.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. If your flight falls under EU Regulation 261/2004, you have the right to assistance (meals, beverages, and if necessary, hotel accommodation). While waiting for your flight, you can visit several shops, including Duty Free, or have a snack in one of the terminal's cafés.