Nova Jacuí Airport

The closure was formally executed 'at the request of the operator,' which was Eletrosul Centrais Elétricas S.A. (a subsidiary of the state-owned Eletrobras). The underlying reasons are primarily economic. Maintaining a private airport is costly, and as corporate travel policies evolve and road infrastructure improves, the necessity for a dedicated private airfield for a single facility diminishes. Corporate cost-cutting measures, especially within state-run enterprises undergoing restructuring, often target such non-core, high-upkeep assets.

The physical infrastructure, including the paved runway (approximately 1400 meters long), remains intact on the grounds of the hydroelectric plant. However, the airport is completely inactive and closed to all air traffic. Satellite imagery confirms the runway is unused, with no aircraft present and early signs of disuse. The site has not been repurposed and remains part of the power company's property, effectively mothballed.

The airport, officially registered with ANAC as Aeródromo de Jacuí (the official ICAO code was SSKJ, while BR-0014 is an identifier used in unofficial databases), was a private airfield with significant logistical importance. Its primary purpose was to support the operations of the massive Jacuí Hydroelectric Power Plant complex, a cornerstone of the energy grid in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The airport was essential during the plant's construction and subsequent decades of operation for transporting company executives, specialized engineers, technicians, and urgent, high-value light cargo to the relatively remote location. It ensured swift access for maintenance and emergency response, playing a vital role in the operational efficiency of a critical piece of national infrastructure.

There are no known public or official plans to reopen the airport. Since it was a private facility closed for economic and operational reasons by its owner, any prospect of reopening would depend on Eletrobras (or a new owner) finding a new, compelling business case for it. A takeover by the local municipality for public use would require significant investment and negotiation, and there is no indication that such discussions are underway.