Faro Airport (FAO)
Faro, PT 🇵🇹 Large International Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
LPFR
IATA
FAO
Elevation
24 ft
Region
PT-08
Local Time
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Loading...Airport Information
GPS Code: LPFR
Local Code: Not available
Location: 37.0144° N, -7.96591° E
Continent: Europe
Type: Large International Airport
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Recent traveler reviews for Faro Airport (FAO) indicate a mixed to negative overall sentiment, largely overshadowed by significant complaints regarding passport control wait times, particularly during peak seasons. While many find the airport modern and easy to navigate, recurring issues with efficiency at immigration and limited amenities frequently tarnish the experience.
What Travelers Love
- Modern and Clean Terminal (generally): The airport is often described as modern and generally clean, offering a decent environment for travelers.
- Easy to Navigate: Despite handling nearly 10 million passengers annually, its layout is relatively simple and well-signed, making it easy for first-time visitors to get around.
- Good Transportation Connections: There are ample car rental services located just outside the terminal, and numerous taxi options are available. Dedicated airport transfer services are frequently praised for their efficiency and punctuality.
- Free Wi-Fi: Travelers appreciate the availability of free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
Common Complaints
- Excessively Long Passport Control Queues: This is the most significant and frequent complaint, with many travelers reporting waits of 1.5 to 3 hours, especially during peak summer months, holidays, or when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.
- Understaffed Immigration and Non-Functional E-Gates: A primary cause of delays is often cited as a shortage of staff at passport control booths and automated e-gates that are frequently out of service or limited in number.
- Limited Seating and Crowding: During busy periods, the terminal can become extremely crowded with insufficient seating options, particularly in departure areas and around cafes.
- Limited Food and Retail Options: The variety and number of cafes, shops, and duty-free options are considered limited compared to larger international airports, leading some to advise eating or shopping before arrival.
- Cleanliness Issues: While generally clean, some recent reviews highlight dirty toilets and issues with cleanliness in catering areas.
- Rude/Unhelpful Staff: There are reports of unhelpful or rude staff, particularly at passport control, contributing to traveler frustration.
Overall, Faro Airport serves as a functional gateway to the Algarve, but travelers should be prepared for potentially significant delays at passport control and security, especially during peak travel times. While the airport generally offers modern facilities and good transport links, managing expectations regarding wait times and on-site amenities is advisable for a smoother experience.
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Airport Routes
Faro Airport (FAO) offers 174 flight routes operated by 10 airlines. Major carriers include Ryanair, easyJet, Transavia Airlines and others. Popular destinations from Faro include Copenhagen, Manchester, Brussels, Dusseldorf Int'l and Amsterdam Schiphol.
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Faro AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Ryanair
RYR
/ FR
|
46 | 1592 | 46 | Feb 2, 2026 |
easyJet
EZY
/ U2
|
18 | 658 | 18 | Jan 31, 2026 |
Transavia Airlines
TRA
/ HV
|
4 | 228 | 4 | Feb 2, 2026 |
TAP Air Portugal
TAP
/ TP
|
1 | 196 | 1 | Feb 2, 2026 |
Jet2
EXS
/ LS
|
13 | 166 | 13 | Feb 1, 2026 |
Transavia France
TVF
/ TO
|
4 | 141 | 4 | Jan 31, 2026 |
Eurowings
EWG
/ EW
|
5 | 116 | 5 | Jan 31, 2026 |
Aer Lingus
EIN
/ EI
|
2 | 85 | 2 | Feb 1, 2026 |
|
BA Euroflyer
EFW
/ A0
|
1 | 78 | 1 | Jan 30, 2026 |
Lufthansa
DLH
/ LH
|
2 | 61 | 2 | Feb 1, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
10/28 |
8169 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| APP | APP | 119.4 MHz |
| ATIS | ATIS | 124.2 MHz |
| GND | GND | 118.575 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 118.2 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Taxis are available 24/7 from the rank located directly outside the arrivals terminal. The journey to Faro city center takes approximately 15 minutes. Fares are metered, but may have surcharges for luggage, night, or weekend trips. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt also operate from the airport and are a common alternative.
Rental Cars
Several car rental companies, including major international brands (Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Europcar) and local providers, have desks located in the arrivals hall. It is highly recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during peak tourist season. The car hire parking lots are a short walk from the terminal building. This is a very popular option for exploring the Algarve region.
Public Transportation
The main public transport option is the 'Próximo' bus network. Route 16 runs frequently between the airport and the main bus terminal in Faro city center. The journey takes about 20 minutes. From the central bus terminal, you can access regional buses and the nearby Faro train station for connections throughout Portugal. There is no direct train station at the airport.