Santa Maria Airport (SMA)

Common Complaints

• Terminal Facilities & Cleanliness: There are mixed reports on cleanliness; some areas, particularly bathrooms near baggage claim and check-in counters, have been described as dirty, with non-functioning lights and unpleasant odors. Overall terminal facilities are rated around 60%.
• Limited Amenities & Food Options: The airport offers very limited refreshment possibilities, with only one vending machine available in the transit area. Food and retail services generally receive a lower satisfaction rating of 61%.
• Poor Connectivity: Travelers frequently report very poor WiFi connection and almost no GSM signal throughout the airport. WiFi satisfaction is rated at 64%.
• Unfriendly/Slow Staff & Lack of Information: Some experiences include unfriendly and very slow staff at check-in desks, and a lack of readily available personnel in the transit area to provide information about flight delays.
• Luggage Handling Issues: There has been at least one reported instance of luggage being mishandled and damaged by airport workers.
• Transportation Challenges: There can be long lines for rental car companies, and taxis might not always be readily available.

Santa Maria Airport serves as a functional, albeit basic, gateway to the island. While its small scale can offer a smooth experience for some, travelers should manage expectations regarding modern amenities, food variety, and connectivity, and consider pre-booking transportation like rental cars or taxis to avoid potential delays.