João Paulo II Airport (PDL)

Ponta Delgada, PT 🇵🇹 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

LPPD

IATA

PDL

Elevation

259 ft

Region

PT-20

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: LPPD

Local Code: Not available

Location: 37.741199° N, -25.697901° E

Continent: EU

Type: Large International Airport

External Links

Links verified by AI • Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

João Paulo II Airport (LPPD (PDL)) in Ponta Delgada generally receives very good service ratings from travelers, averaging around 8.0/10. Travelers frequently describe it as a small, efficient, and well-organized airport that is easy to navigate.

What Travelers Love
  • Efficiency and Smooth Operations: Passengers often report quick passage through security and passport control, even for international flights. Ground handling is also noted as very efficient upon arrival.
  • Cleanliness and Organization: The terminal is consistently described as clean and well-maintained.
  • Convenient Location: The airport is located very close to Ponta Delgada city center, making for short transfer times to accommodations.
  • Easy Car Rental Access: Rental car offices are conveniently located near the exit, facilitating quick pick-ups.
  • Friendly Staff: Many travelers praise the staff for being professional and helpful.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Post-Security Amenities: There are few options for food, drinks, and shopping once past security, especially for flights to the US/Canada.
  • Lack of Direct Public Transportation: There is no extensive public bus service directly to the city center, with only a minibus service connecting to major hotels. Taxis and private transfers are the main alternatives.
  • Crowding During Peak Times: While generally efficient, the airport can become crowded during peak seasons, leading to longer queues at check-in or security.
  • Small Toilets: One recurring, albeit minor, complaint refers to the unusually small size of the toilet bowls.

Overall, João Paulo II Airport is a functional and pleasant smaller airport, particularly appreciated for its efficiency and cleanliness. While amenities are limited and public transport options could be improved, it serves as an effective gateway to the Azores.

Generated 6 days ago
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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

Current Weather Conditions

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Airport Routes

Popular Flight Routes
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Top Airlines

Operating at João Paulo II Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
9 673 9 Dec 10, 2025
16 466 16 Dec 10, 2025
1 146 1 Dec 10, 2025
Ryanair
RYR / FR
3 62 3 Dec 9, 2025
4 62 4 Sep 29, 2025
Smartwings
TVS / QS
1 12 1 Oct 3, 2025
1 8 1 Oct 19, 2025
United
UAL / UA
1 8 1 Sep 24, 2025
Lufthansa
DLH / LH
1 5 1 Oct 19, 2025
1 5 1 Oct 11, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
12/30 8192 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
APP APP 119.4 MHz
TWR TWR 118.3 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
MGL Ponta Delgada NDB 371 kHz
PD Ponta Delgada NDB 351 kHz
VMG Sao Miguel VORTAC 114500 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Taxis are available 24/7 from a rank located directly outside the arrivals hall. The trip to the center of Ponta Delgada is short, taking approximately 10 minutes and costing around €10-€15. Fares are metered, with potential surcharges for luggage, weekends, or late-night travel.

Rental Cars

Several international and local car rental companies have service desks inside the arrivals terminal, including Ilha Verde, Hertz, Avis, Sixt, and Europcar. Renting a car is a very popular option for exploring São Miguel island. It is highly recommended to book your vehicle in advance, especially during the busy summer season, to secure availability and better rates.

Public Transportation

The ANC Aerobus provides a convenient and economical connection between the airport and various points in Ponta Delgada, including the city center and major hotels. The bus stop is located just outside the terminal building. It is the most budget-friendly option for reaching the city.

Nearby Airports

Santa Maria Airport
SMA • LPAZ
Vila do Porto, PT
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~97 km away
Santa Maria Airport
SMA • LPAZ
Vila do Porto, PT
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~97 km away
Hospital do Divino Espirito Santo Heliport
PT-0011
Ponta Delgada, PT
Heliport
~2 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.