Faro airport (FAO)

Faro Gago Coutinho Airport (FAO), opened on 11 July 1965, is the main air terminal serving the Algarve region, providing services to southern Portugal and south-western Spain. It is a strategic hub for international tourism, operating an extensive network of domestic and international flights that connect the region with major destinations across Europe and Canada.

Official Website: aeroportofaro.pt

Telephone: +351 289 800 800

Social Media:

Terminals

The airport has a single passenger terminal that operates 24 hours a day. Recently modernised to increase its capacity, it offers facilities adapted to the high passenger volumes it handles, particularly during the busy summer season.

Annual Traffic (2025): 10.1 million passengers.

Information Desks

General information counters are located in the public hall and the departure area, operating from 6:00 am to 12:00 am. In addition, the arrivals area hosts a tourism office for the Algarve Region, open from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.

 Location

The airport is located in the Algarve region, in the parish of Montenegro, 7 km (4.4 miles) west of the city of Faro.

Parking services at Faro airport (FAO)

The airport complex features several parking areas located just a few metres from the terminal, designed to suit different timeframes and budgets. All parking zones operate 24 hours a day, are outdoors, and are equipped with surveillance systems.

Kiss & Fly

This area is intended exclusively for quick passenger drop-off and pick-up, and is located on the access roads to the departures and arrivals areas. The first 10 minutes of parking are free of charge. Only two free entries per day are permitted; from the third entry within a 24-hour period, charges apply from the first minute.

Parking Areas

• P1 – Low Cost Plus: Located close to the departures area, this is a mid-range option suitable for short- and medium-term stays.
• P2 – Classic: This is the car park closest to the arrivals area. It is aimed at short stays and offers maximum proximity to the main terminal building.
• P3/P4 – Low Cost: These are the most economical options, recommended for long-term parking. They are approximately an 8- to 10-minute walk from the terminal.

Electric Vehicles: The P1 car park is equipped with electric vehicle charging points integrated into the Mobi.E network.

Bookings and Tariffs: It is recommended to book online in advance to guarantee availability and access better rates. You can manage your parking space via the official parking portal.

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Faro Airport is designed to be an accessible and comfortable environment for all travellers, ensuring smooth movement through the terminal regardless of passengers’ physical or mobility needs.

Reduced Mobility

The MyWay service provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, covering everything from arrival support to boarding the aircraft. To ensure optimal assistance, this service must be requested through your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours in advance.

Meeting Points: The terminal features clearly marked assistance call points located in the car parks, on the departures kerbside, and in the main terminal hall, where assistance can be activated.

Physical facilities include lifts, access ramps, adapted toilets, and dedicated signage to facilitate safe and easy movement for users.

Travelling with Children

For families travelling with babies or young children, the airport offers a range of services to make waiting more comfortable:

• Complimentary pushchairs: After the security screening, baby pushchairs are available free of charge for use until boarding.
• Care rooms: Baby-changing facilities and breastfeeding areas are strategically located throughout the terminal.
• Priority access: Families with young children usually benefit from priority lanes at clearly signposted security checkpoints.

Travelling with Animals

The transport of pets is subject to each airline’s rules and international health regulations. Animals must remain in their travel carriers while inside the terminal.

Assistance Dogs: Guide dogs and service dogs are permitted access to all public and boarding areas. It is recommended to inform the airline in advance in order to coordinate security procedures and cabin space.