Ponta Delgada airport (PDL)

João Paulo II Airport (PDL), named in honour of the papal visit of 1991 and formerly known as Nordela Airport, is the main gateway to the Azores archipelago. Opened on 24 August 1969 and located on the island of São Miguel, it is the principal point of entry to the autonomous region, situated around 1,500 km from Lisbon. It serves as a key hub for inter-island flights and international routes connecting the region with Europe and North America.

Official Website: aeroportopontadelgada.pt

Telephone: +351 296 205 400

Social Media:

Terminals

The airport has a modern and efficient passenger terminal that centralises all operations. The terminal building is generally open from 5:00 am to 12:00 am, although this may vary slightly depending on the schedule of the first and last flights of the day.

Annual Traffic (2024): 3.3 million passengers.

Information Points

In the arrivals hall, there is a tourist information desk where you can obtain maps and advice about the island. For airport-specific enquiries, staff from ANA Aeroportos de Portugal provide assistance at the main information desk in the terminal.

 Location

The airport is located in the parish of Relva, 3 km (2 miles) west of Ponta Delgada city centre.

What services does Ponta Delgada airport (PDL) facilities include

Finance and Connectivity

The airport offers Multibanco network ATMs located in both public and boarding areas, as well as a currency exchange office (Unicâmbio) in the public area. For travellers who need to work or charge their devices, workstations and power outlets are strategically located throughout the terminal. Access to free and unlimited Wi-Fi is available across the entire terminal via the “_VINCI Airports WiFi” network.

Dining

The dining options include a restaurant with runway views on the first floor, as well as several cafés and bars on the ground floor and in the boarding area. Notable venues include Go to Coffee and Cockpit. Most outlets operate in line with flight schedules, closing after the last scheduled departure.

Shopping and Duty-Free

The boarding area features the Azores Duty Free shop, offering tax-free items. In addition, the terminal includes shops selling souvenirs, Azorean handicrafts, local products (such as cheeses and teas), fashion, accessories, newspapers and gifts, including outlets such as Azorean Gift Shop.

Baggage Services

• Luggage Trolleys: Available free of charge in the departures and arrivals areas, as well as in the car parks.
• Baggage Storage: A left luggage service is available in the public area. You should contact the information desk to request access to the lockers (subject to availability and applicable fees).
• Lost Property: To claim items lost within the terminal, you must contact the security office in the arrivals area (Tel +351 296 205 400 ext. 81392).

Other Services

The facilities include a post office (CTT) on Level 0, mobile phone services (Vodafone), rest areas, breastfeeding rooms, a first aid post, and workstations with desks and power outlets (Living Spot).

Accommodation near Ponta Delgada airport (PDL)

Although there are no hotels directly integrated within the terminal building, the airport’s location on the outskirts of the city provides access to a wide range of accommodation options within a radius of less than 3 kilometres. Most of these options are guesthouses and traditional quintas, offering a peaceful atmosphere before or after a flight.

Nearby Accommodation

• Vivenda Garcia Bed and Breakfast: This is the closest option to the terminal, allowing guests to reach it even on foot or via a taxi ride of just a couple of minutes, making it ideal for overnight layovers.
• Ponta Delgada Guest House 2: Offers a practical and functional stay, with the advantage of being located midway between the airport and the city’s historic centre.
• Azores Holidays House B&B Suites: Stands out for its welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere, providing restful accommodation for travellers looking to escape commercial noise.
• Carvão PDL Inn: A modern and comfortable alternative that simplifies transport logistics to the airport thanks to its good road connectivity.
• Quinta do Bom Despacho: This historic, eco-focused quinta is perfect for those wishing to enjoy green spaces and sustainability without moving far from the terminal area.

Parking services at Ponta Delgada airport (PDL)

The airport offers several parking areas located within short walking distance of the terminal, operating 24 hours a day and providing options for both short stops and long-term stays.

Quick Drop-Off

Located in front of the departures area, the Kiss & Fly zone allows free access for dropping off or picking up passengers, provided the stay does not exceed 10 minutes. This benefit is limited to a maximum of two entries per vehicle per day; otherwise, the applicable parking charges will apply from the first minute.

Parking Areas

• P1 (Short Stay): This is the car park closest to the terminal building, ideal for those who need to park for a few hours or accompany travellers to the check-in area.
• P2 and P6 (Medium and Long Stay): Areas designed for stays of several days, offering a balanced rate between proximity and cost.
• P4 (Long Stay / Economy): Located slightly further away, this is the recommended option for travellers leaving their vehicle for extended periods, as it offers the lowest rates at the airport.

Additional Information: Passengers can benefit from significant discounts by making an online reservation in advance. All car parks offer designated spaces for passengers with reduced mobility.

Prices and Bookings: Check prices and book a parking space on the official website.

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Ponta Delgada Airport offers adapted infrastructure and specific services to ensure that all travellers, regardless of their needs, can move through the terminal comfortably and safely.

Reduced Mobility

The MyWay service provides personalised assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities. This service includes support from the point of arrival at the airport to the aircraft seat, as well as assistance during disembarkation and baggage reclaim.

To ensure the availability of this service, it is essential to notify your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours in advance. Within the terminal, you will find clearly signposted contact points bearing the MyWay logo, where you can request immediate assistance once you have arrived.

Travelling with Children

The terminal is equipped to facilitate travel for families. Baby-changing facilities and adapted restrooms are available in various areas of the airport. In addition, after passing through security control, the airport offers complimentary pushchairs for transporting young children to the boarding gate, subject to availability.

Travelling with Pets

If you are travelling with animals, it is essential to check your airline’s specific policies in advance and ensure compliance with current health requirements (EU Pet Passport, microchip and vaccinations). Service animals and guide dogs are permitted in the terminal and in the aircraft cabin at no additional cost, provided the relevant supporting documentation is presented.