Overview of Lajes Airport
Lajes Airport is a military and commercial airport located on the island of Terceira in the Azores archipelago. It was built in 1928 by the Portuguese government as a refueling stop for transatlantic flights. During World War II, it became an important military base for the United States Air Force and played a key role in the transportation of troops and equipment to Europe.
Today, Lajes Airport serves as a crucial airfield for both military and civilian purposes. The airport is operated by the Portuguese Air Force and provides a range of services, including cargo operations, air ambulance services, and search and rescue operations. In addition, the airport offers regular scheduled flights to Lisbon, as well as seasonal charter flights to other destinations in Europe and North America.
Lajes Airport is equipped with modern facilities and amenities, including a VIP lounge, car rental services, and various dining and shopping options. The airport is also home to the Lajes Air Base, which houses several military units from the Portuguese and American armed forces.
In recent years, Lajes Airport has been the subject of significant investment and development, aimed at enhancing its capacity and improving its services. Today, the airport is a key hub for air traffic in the Azores and a vital link in the transportation network between Europe and North America.
Terminals at Lajes Airport
Lajes Airport, also known as Lajes Field, is a military and civil airport located on the island of Terceira in the Azores archipelago, Portugal. Lajes Airport has only one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal has a capacity of approximately 1.2 million passengers per year.
Upon arriving at the airport, passengers will find the check-in counters located on the ground floor of the terminal. There are several airlines operating from Lajes Airport, such as SATA Air Açores, TAP Air Portugal, Azores Airlines, Ryanair, and Delta Air Lines. The terminal offers a variety of services, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, ATM machines, currency exchange desks, car rental services, and more.
Passengers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, which makes it easy to stay connected with friends and family or catch up on work. The airport also provides special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities. There are designated parking spaces for disabled passengers and wheelchair-accessible facilities throughout the terminal.
The security measures at Lajes Airport are strict and passengers are advised to arrive at the airport early to allow for sufficient time to pass through the security checks. There are restrictions on the amount of liquids and gels that passengers can bring through security, so it’s recommended to check the airline’s guidelines before packing.
Overall, Lajes Airport’s terminal is clean, modern, and efficient. Passengers can expect a hassle-free experience when flying in or out of this airport. The staff is friendly and helpful, making it easy to navigate the terminal and find everything needed for a comfortable flight.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Lajes Airport:
– Azores Airlines: Destinations include Lisbon, Porto, Boston, Toronto, and Ponta Delgada.
– SATA Air Açores: Destinations include Flores, Corvo, Pico, Terceira, Santa Maria, Graciosa, São Jorge, and Lisbon.
– TAP Portugal: Destinations include Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal (seasonal).
There are also charter flights operated by EuroAtlantic Airways and Privilege Style that serve seasonal destinations such as Punta Cana, Cancun, and Varadero.
Domestic routes connect the nine islands of the Azores archipelago, while international routes primarily serve mainland Portugal and North America. The flight schedule is subject to seasonal changes, with more frequent flights during the summer months.
Transportation Options at Lajes Airport
Lajes Airport, located on Terceira Island in the Azores, offers several transportation options for travelers to get around the island.
One option is the airport shuttle service, which is operated by local tour companies. This service provides transportation to and from the airport, as well as tours of the island. Advance reservations are recommended for this service.
Another option for travelers is car rental. Several car rental agencies have offices located within the airport terminal, allowing travelers to easily rent a car upon arrival. The island is small enough to drive around in a day, making it a convenient transportation option for visitors who want to explore on their own time.
For those who prefer not to drive, there is also a shuttle bus service that runs between the airport and various locations on the island. This service operates on a fixed schedule, with several stops along the way. It’s an affordable and convenient way to get around the island without having to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads.
Additionally, there are train lines on the island that offer transportation to various destinations. The trains are operated by Comboios de Portugal and run on a regular schedule. Visitors can purchase tickets at the train station or online in advance.
The airport also has taxi service available, which is a convenient option for those who want door-to-door service. Visitors can easily hail a taxi from the airport or book one in advance.
No matter what transportation option you choose at Lajes Airport, all options are relatively convenient and accessible. It’s recommended to research and book your preferred method of transportation in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons when demand is high.
Parking at Lajes Airport
There are several parking options available at Lajes Airport. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options.
For short-term parking, there is a lot located directly in front of the terminal building. This lot is ideal for those picking up or dropping off passengers. The rates for short-term parking are €1.50 for the first hour, and €2 for each additional hour.
For long-term parking, there are two options available. The first option is the Economy Parking Lot, which is located a short distance from the terminal building. The rates for this lot are €5 per day. The second option is the Parking Garage, which is located adjacent to the terminal building. The rates for this garage are €8 per day.
Both the Economy Parking Lot and the Parking Garage offer 24-hour security and are well-lit for added safety. In addition, there is a shuttle service available for those parked in the Economy Parking Lot to transport them to and from the terminal building.
No matter what parking option you choose, it is recommended to arrive early to ensure availability as the parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times.
Check-In Procedures
Lajes Airport offers its passengers three types of check-in procedures: online, self-service, and traditional.
Online check-in is available for most flights and can be done from the comfort of your home or office. Passengers must access their airline’s website and follow the instructions to complete the process. Afterward, they will receive a boarding pass that they must print or save on their mobile device.
The self-service check-in kiosks are located in the airport’s public area. They allow passengers to check-in, select their seats, and print their boarding passes. This option is ideal for those who prefer to skip the ticket counter lines and do not have any luggage to check.
Finally, traditional check-in is available for those who prefer to interact with an airline agent. Passengers must go to their airline’s ticket counter and present their travel documents. If they have any luggage to check, this is the right time to do so. Airline agents will issue the boarding pass and provide additional information about the flight.
It is essential to note that check-in deadlines vary depending on the airline and destination. Therefore, passengers should verify their airline’s specific requirements and arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the check-in process and proceed through security checkpoints without delays.
Security at Lajes Airport
Security procedures at Lajes Airport include baggage screening, body scanners, and document verification.
To ensure a hassle-free security check, passengers should have their boarding pass and ID ready, remove all liquids and electronics from their carry-on bags, and wear easy-to-remove shoes.
It is also recommended to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight to allow for any unexpected delays during the security process.
Customs and Immigration
Upon arrival at Lajes Airport, passengers will need to proceed through immigration. This involves presenting a passport and any required visas or travel documents.
Once cleared through immigration, passengers will then proceed to baggage claim to collect any checked luggage. After this, passengers will pass through customs, where they may be subject to additional screening or searches.
Departing passengers will also need to go through the same process in reverse order. They will check in their luggage, pass through security screening, clear immigration and customs, and finally proceed to their gate for boarding.
Amenities
- Restaurants and Cafés – There are several dining options at Lajes Airport, including a café, snack bar, and restaurant serving local Portuguese cuisine.
- Shops and Duty-Free – Passengers can browse a variety of shops offering souvenirs, local crafts, and duty-free goods.
- Banking and Currency Exchange – There is a bank and ATM on site, as well as currency exchange services.
- Wi-Fi – Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport for passengers to use.
- Lounges – There are lounges available for passengers who want a more comfortable and private space to wait for their flight.
- Prayer Room – A prayer room is available for passengers who need a quiet space to pray or meditate.
- Car Rental – Several car rental companies have counters inside the airport terminal for passengers to rent a car.
- Parking – There are ample parking options available at Lajes Airport for both short-term and long-term stays.
Accessibility Services
Lajes Airport provides facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair assistance, accessible toilets, reserved parking spaces, tactile paving, and dedicated check-in counters.
Passengers with specific needs should inform their airlines in advance so that the necessary arrangements can be made.
Additionally, there are trained staff available to assist with boarding and disembarking, as well as with navigating through the airport.
The airport is committed to ensuring that all passengers can travel through Lajes Airport with ease and comfort.
Connecting Flights at Lajes Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Lajes Airport, it is important to plan ahead. Check the airport map and locate your departure gate before landing.
Once you disembark, follow the signs to your connecting gate. If your layover is short, inform the airline staff to expedite the process.
Additionally, make sure to keep an eye on the time and board your next flight promptly. It is best to avoid unnecessary stops or distractions during your layover.
Finally, if you are unsure about the process, do not hesitate to ask the airport or airline staff for assistance. They will be happy to guide you and ensure a smooth transition to your next flight.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Lajes Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area, indicated by signage throughout the terminal.
Once there, passengers can locate their respective airlines’ baggage carousels and wait for their luggage to arrive. If baggage is lost or damaged, passengers must report it immediately to their airline’s customer service desk.
In the case of lost property, passengers may also visit the airport’s lost and found office located in the arrivals hall. The office is open 24 hours a day, and items can be reported either in person or by phone.
It is recommended that passengers keep a copy of their baggage tag and flight itinerary with them at all times to facilitate the recovery process in case of lost or delayed luggage.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In the event of an emergency, Lajes Airport is equipped with a comprehensive emergency response team. The team consists of highly trained professionals who are ready to respond to any emergency situation.
The airport also has medical facilities on-site, including a first aid station and a medical clinic. The medical clinic is staffed by qualified medical professionals who are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
In addition to these facilities, the airport has a well-equipped ambulance service that can transport patients to nearby hospitals if necessary. Overall, passengers can feel assured that they are in safe hands in the event of any medical or emergency situation at Lajes Airport.
Hotel Accommodations near Lajes Airport
There are several hotel accommodations available within a few miles of Lajes Airport.
1. Hotel Praia Marina (3 miles)
2. Terceira Mar Hotel (4 miles)
3. Hotel Do Canal (5 miles)
4. Hotel Varandas do Atlântico (6 miles)
5. Pousada de Angra do Heroísmo (7 miles)
Each of these hotels offers comfortable rooms and amenities such as free Wi-Fi, on-site dining options, and shuttle services to and from the airport. Whether you’re looking for a luxury stay or budget-friendly options, there’s something for everyone near Lajes Airport.
Useful Tips
Here are some insider tips for making the most of your time at Lajes Airport.
First, be sure to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure to allow for check-in and security procedures.
If you have a long layover, there is a lounge available for a fee that offers comfortable seating and refreshments.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and there are plenty of charging stations for your electronic devices.
For food options, there are several cafes and restaurants offering a range of snacks and meals.
Finally, if you need any assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask one of the friendly airport staff members.
Contact Information
Airport Information: +351 296 205 400
Lost and Found: +351 296 205 464
Police Station: +351 296 205 416
Medical Assistance: +351 296 205 425
Fire Department: +351 296 205 421
Airports near Lajes Airport
Although Lajes Airport is the largest airport in the Azores, there are a few other airports in the region that offer alternative flight options, including:
- Pico Airport (PIX) – located approximately 75km southeast of Lajes Airport, Pico Airport offers flights to/from Lisbon and several other destinations in Europe. Travelers can reach Pico Airport by taxi or rental car.
- Horta Airport (HOR) – located on the island of Faial, approximately 135km west of Lajes Airport, Horta Airport offers flights to/from Lisbon, as well as several other destinations in Europe. Travelers can reach Horta Airport by taxi or rental car, or by taking a ferry from the nearby Port of Horta.
- Sao Jorge Airport (SJZ) – located on the island of Sao Jorge, approximately 155km west of Lajes Airport, Sao Jorge Airport offers flights to/from Lisbon and several other destinations in Europe. Travelers can reach Sao Jorge Airport by taxi or rental car, or by taking a ferry from the nearby Port of Velas.
Please note that flight schedules and availability may vary, and it’s always a good idea to check with your preferred airline for the latest information.