A Tutorial to Flying in The Azores
Everything you need to know to plan and fly in or out of the Azores.
An extraordinary adventure awaits in the enchanting Azores, where volcanic wonders meet the vast Atlantic. As the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues, you take flight, embraced by the wings of freedom. Below, emerald-green meadows, craggy cliffs, and cascading waterfalls form a breathtaking patchwork. São Miguel reveals surreal lakes nestled within ancient calderas while the aroma of thermal hot springs lingers. Terceira unfolds with its cobblestone streets, colorful towns, and centuries-old landmarks, like the sentinel fortress of São João Baptista. From above, the Azores unveil their captivating beauty, inviting you to soar higher, to explore their hidden treasures with every exhilarating moment.
When visiting or leaving the Azores, travelers can access several main airports strategically located across the archipelago's islands. The João Paulo II Airport (LPPD) on São Miguel Island is the primary gateway, offering convenient connections to the largest and most populous island. Lajes Field (LPLA) on Terceira Island provides a critical military and civilian air base, facilitating domestic and international travel. Santa Maria Airport (LPAZ) on Santa Maria Island offers another entry point with connections to the easternmost island. Horta Airport (LPHR) on Faial Island and Pico Airport (LPPI) on Pico Island serve as gateways to the central islands, each offering unique landscapes and attractions. Travelers can also access the westernmost islands through Flores Airport (LPFL) on Flores Island and Graciosa Airport (LPGR) on Graciosa Island. Lastly, Corvo Airport (LPCR) on Corvo Island connects visitors to the archipelago's smallest and most remote island. With these diverse airports, exploring the Azores' natural beauty and cultural heritage is accessible and convenient for tourists.
The Azores Islands have become an increasingly popular destination, thanks to the arrival of budget airlines that have made the archipelago more accessible. Ponta Delgada Airport on São Miguel, the largest island, is the primary gateway for most international flights, while Lajes Airport on Terceira Island also sees a few international flights. Here is an overview of the airlines that offer flights to and from the Azores Islands:
SATA Azores Airlines: SATA, operating through its subsidiary Azores Airlines, is the leading airline serving the Azores. It offers a wide range of flights to various international destinations, including nonstop flights from Ponta Delgada / Lajes to cities such as Montreal, Cape Verde, Frankfurt, Munich, Lisbon, Porto, Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, London-Gatwick, Boston-Logan, Providence, and notably Funchal to New York JFK but there is more. SATA also operates domestic flights within the Azores. You can expect to see all sorts of aircraft used around the islands. Check the next section to see specific aircraft with SATA Azores Airlines Group.
TAP: Portuguese airline TAP operates codeshare flights with SATA, connecting Lisbon and several Azores islands. They also offer a Portugal Stopover program, allowing travelers to visit Lisbon or Porto en route to the Algarve, Azores, or Madeira. TAP flies the A321-200neo and A330-900neo to (LPPD), and the A320-200neo.
Ryanair: Budget airline Ryanair offers flights between the Azores and cities in Portugal and the UK. They operate flights from Ponta Delgada to Lisbon, Porto, London-Stansted, Manchester, and from Lajes to Lisbon. Flies all variants to the islands
United Airlines: United Airlines offers flights to the Azores from Newark Liberty International Airport in the United States. Their flights connect Newark with Ponta Delgada, providing a convenient option for travelers from the New York area. United flies the B737-8MAX, which the B737-800 can replace.
TUI Fly Belgium/Netherlands: TUI Group's Belgian subsidiary offers flights between Brussels and Ponta Delgada, while the Dutch charter airline connects Amsterdam-Schiphol with Ponta Delgada. Flies the B737-8MAX and -800NG.
In the past, the Azores were served by several airlines that have since ceased operations or no longer fly to the archipelago. These airlines played a significant role in connecting the Azores to various international destinations. Some notable examples include:
Delta Airlines: Delta Airlines once operated flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to Ponta Delgada (PDL), offering convenient connections between the United States and the Azores.
Air Europa: Air Europa used to provide flights between Madrid (Lajes and Barajas) and Lajes on Terceira Island. These routes facilitated travel between Spain and the Azores.
Primera Air: Primera Air, an Icelandic airline, had plans to fly a route between Copenhagen and Ponta Delgada. However, the airline ceased operations before the way could be launched.
While these airlines no longer serve the Azores, their previous contributions highlight the historical connectivity and the importance of air travel in connecting the Azores with vital international destinations.
SATA Azores Airlines operates a diverse fleet of aircraft to cater to different routes and passenger demands within the Azores and beyond. On inner island routes and occasionally to Funchal, SATA utilizes the Q400 and Q200 aircraft, offering efficient and comfortable travel between the Azorean islands. For ways to and from North America and Portugal, SATA operates the A320-200, A320-200neo, and A321-200neo, providing a range of capacities to accommodate varying passenger loads. These modern and fuel-efficient aircraft ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience on longer-haul flights. Notably, for the route between Funchal and New York's JFK Airport, SATA employs the A321-200neo, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient transatlantic journey. With their versatile fleet, SATA Azores Airlines ensures connectivity and convenience for travelers exploring the Azores and beyond.
Azores Airlines offers a comprehensive route network connecting the Azores to various destinations worldwide. From Ponta Delgada Airport, they offer flights to Canada, Cape Verde, Germany, Portugal, Spain, and the United States, providing travelers with convenient access to the stunning Azores and beyond.
In addition to commercial airlines, private jets also play a significant role in connecting the Azores to the world. The islands have become an increasingly popular destination for private jet travelers seeking exclusivity, privacy, and the freedom to explore at their own pace. Private jet operators offer tailored itineraries and personalized services, allowing visitors to experience the Azores' breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural heritage with utmost convenience and luxury. The presence of private jets not only enhances the tourism sector but also underscores the Azores' appeal as a sought-after destination for discerning travelers seeking extraordinary experiences. With private jets adding to the air traffic, the Azores truly showcase their allure as a premier destination that caters to a wide range of travelers, including those seeking a bespoke and indulgent exploration of these awe-inspiring islands.
The Azores Islands offer an extraordinary adventure with stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Airlines like SATA Azores Airlines, TAP, Ryanair, United Airlines, and TUI Fly Belgium/Netherlands provide comprehensive routes to access the archipelago. From main airports like Ponta Delgada and Lajes to inner island routes, travelers can enjoy the beauty and warm hospitality. While some past airlines have played a significant role, the current airlines continue to serve the islands with dedication. SATA Azores Airlines offers convenient connections with its diverse fleet. Private jets also contribute to the exclusivity of the Azores. Explore unspoiled nature and captivating landscapes for an extraordinary journey.
Written and Edited by A320_Flyerboy19