Nelson Ribeiro Guimarães Airport (CLV)

Nelson Ribeiro Guimarães Airport (IATA: CLV, ICAO: SBCN) is the primary air access point for Caldas Novas, one of Brazil's most significant hydrothermal tourism destinations located in the state of Goiás. The airport's function is almost exclusively dedicated to serving the region's robust tourism sector, facilitating direct travel for visitors seeking the area's renowned hot springs and resorts. Its strategic importance lies in its ability to connect major Brazilian cities with this popular vacation spot, underpinning the local economy.

Inaugurated in 2002, the airport was constructed to replace an older, smaller aerodrome that was insufficient for the increasing tourist demand. This development was a critical step in modernizing the region's infrastructure and solidifying its position as a premier national travel destination. The airport is named in honor of a notable local figure involved in the region's development.

Conveniently situated just three kilometers southeast of the Caldas Novas city center, the airport offers excellent accessibility. The journey to the main hotel district is typically a short 5-to-10-minute drive. Taxis and app-based ride-sharing services are the most common forms of transportation for arriving and departing passengers, with vehicles readily available at the terminal curb.

Operations at CLV are focused on domestic routes, with a mix of scheduled and charter flights. Major national carriers, including Azul Linhas Aéreas and GOL Linhas Aéreas, provide regular service connecting Caldas Novas to key hubs like São Paulo (Campinas and Congonhas) and Belo Horizonte. Charter flights increase significantly during peak seasons and national holidays. While equipped to handle it, the airport does not typically service scheduled international flights. Passenger volume in pre-pandemic years often exceeded 200,000 annually.

The airport features a single, modern, and compact passenger terminal designed for efficiency. Its facilities are straightforward, including check-in counters, a comfortable departure lounge, baggage claim services, and car rental agencies. Amenities for travelers are modest, consisting of a few snack bars or cafés and small shops for souvenirs and basic travel items. Due to its small scale, check-in and security procedures are generally quick, and arriving 90 minutes prior to a domestic flight is usually adequate. As a destination airport, it is not designed as a hub for connecting flights.