Faro Airport

Common Complaints

• Excessive Security & Passport Control Wait Times: This is by far the most significant and recurring complaint, with travelers reporting waits of 1.5 to 3 hours, especially during peak seasons and when multiple flights from the UK and Ireland arrive simultaneously. This is often attributed to inadequate staffing, closed booths, and non-functional automated e-gates.
• Rude and Unhelpful Staff: Many reviews mention airport and security staff being rude, miserable, and unhelpful, particularly during chaotic queuing situations.
• Limited Food and Seating Options: The selection of cafes and dining options is considered limited, especially after security, with reports of insufficient seating, leading to people sitting on the floor. Prices for food and water can also be very high.
• Dirty Toilets: Despite some claims of cleanliness, several recent reviews explicitly mention dirty and unhygienic toilet facilities.
• Baggage Handling Delays: Some travelers experienced slow baggage arrival due to too many flights assigned to one carousel.
• Ineffective Priority/Fast Track: Even travelers with disabilities or young children reported difficulties and chaos with priority queues.

Overall, while Faro Airport offers a modern and easily navigable physical space, the severe and ongoing issues with security and passport control wait times, coupled with perceived poor staff attitudes and limited amenities, significantly detract from the overall traveler experience. Many recent reviews indicate that these issues are a major deterrent for returning to the region for holidays.