São Filipe Airport (SFL)

São Filipe Airport (IATA: SFL, ICAO: GVSF) serves as the primary air gateway to the island of Fogo in Cape Verde. It plays an essential role in the island's connectivity, supporting tourism, commerce, and local travel by linking Fogo to the rest of the archipelago. The airport is the main entry point for visitors seeking to explore the island's unique volcanic landscapes, including the active Pico do Fogo, and the historic colonial architecture of its main city, São Filipe.

The airport's existence is a direct consequence of the island's powerful geology. It was constructed and inaugurated in 1997 following the 1995 eruption of Pico do Fogo. The lava flow from that event destroyed the island's previous airfield located in Mosteiros, necessitating the construction of a new, more securely located facility. This history highlights the airport's significance not only as a piece of modern infrastructure but also as a symbol of the island's resilience and adaptation to its natural environment.

Located just 2 kilometers southeast of the city center of São Filipe, the airport is highly accessible. The journey between the terminal and the city typically takes less than ten minutes by car. Travelers arriving at the airport will find taxis, known locally as "aluguers," readily available outside the terminal to provide transfers to hotels and other destinations around the island.

Operations at São Filipe are exclusively domestic, with no scheduled international flights. The main airline serving the airport is Bestfly Cabo Verde, which operates regular flights connecting Fogo with other key islands, most notably Santiago (Praia International Airport - RAI) and Sal (Amílcar Cabral International Airport - SID). Through these hubs, travelers can connect to international destinations. The airport handles a significant volume of inter-island traffic relative to its size, accommodating tens of thousands of passengers annually.

The airport consists of a single, small terminal building with basic but functional facilities. Passengers have access to check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a main departure lounge. Amenities include a small café/bar offering light refreshments and snacks. Due to its compact size, navigating the airport is straightforward. For travelers, it is recommended to arrive 60 to 90 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights. It is also wise to confirm flight schedules in advance, as inter-island services can sometimes be subject to change. Having local currency (Cape Verdean Escudo) is useful for paying for taxis.