Pontes e Lacerda Airport

This airport is not closed. The premise of closure is based on incorrect data associated with the non-standard ICAO identifier 'BR-2114'. The official and correct ICAO code is SWPL, under which the airport is registered as active and operational with the Brazilian aviation authority (ANAC).

The airport is currently open and fully operational for public use, primarily serving general aviation, executive/business flights, and air-medical services. In 2021-2022, it underwent a major modernization project funded by the Government of Mato Grosso. Key upgrades included the paving of its 1,500-meter long by 30-meter wide runway (01/19), taxiway, and aircraft apron. These improvements have significantly enhanced safety and allow for the operation of larger turboprop and light jet aircraft, such as the King Air and Phenom models, regardless of weather conditions.

Pontes e Lacerda Airport has long served as a vital air link for the remote western region of the Mato Grosso state. Historically, it featured an unpaved runway, which limited its capacity and reliability, especially during the rainy season. The airport was crucial for supporting the region's primary economic activities, including cattle ranching and mining, and provided essential access for air taxi services, private aircraft, and critical air-medical transport. It played a role during local gold rushes by providing access to a region with limited road infrastructure.

As the airport is operational, the focus is on future expansion and capability enhancement rather than reopening. The next planned phase of development includes the installation of night-time operational capabilities, such as runway lighting (balizamento noturno) and a Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI). The goal of these upgrades is to enable 24/7 operations, which is critical for emergency medical flights, and to attract regular regional commercial airline service, further integrating Pontes e Lacerda into the national air network.