Juvenal Loureiro Cardoso Airport (PTO)

Juvenal Loureiro Cardoso Airport (IATA: PTO, ICAO: SBPO) is a regional airport that serves as a vital transportation link for the city of Pato Branco and the surrounding Sudoeste region of Paraná, Brazil. Primarily facilitating business and leisure travel, it connects this important agricultural and technological hub to the country's broader air network. The airport's modern operations are the result of significant investment and redevelopment. Originally inaugurated in 1949, it operated for decades before a long period without regular commercial aviation. Following extensive renovations to its runway and terminal, it was reopened for commercial flights in 2019, a milestone that revitalized regional connectivity and economic development.

Located approximately five kilometers west of downtown Pato Branco, the airport is easily accessible by road. The journey from the city center typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes by car. Travelers can reach the airport using local taxi services or ride-sharing applications, which are the most common forms of transport. There is no dedicated public bus service to the terminal, so arranging private transportation is recommended. On-site parking is available for those who choose to drive.

The airport exclusively handles domestic flights. Operations are centered around a single key route, currently operated by Azul Linhas Aéreas, which connects Pato Branco to Viracopos International Airport (VCP) in Campinas. This flight provides passengers with access to a major national and international hub, enabling connections to destinations across Brazil and the world. The passenger terminal is a modern, compact, and functional building designed to handle the region's air traffic efficiently. Inside, facilities are modest and include check-in counters, a single departure lounge with seating, and restrooms. A small café or snack bar is typically available for basic refreshments, but travelers should not expect extensive shopping or dining options.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to arrive approximately 90 minutes before their scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and security screening, even though processes are generally quick at a facility of this size. Upon arrival, taxis are usually waiting to meet incoming flights. As all commercial flights from Pato Branco connect through a hub, travelers should ensure they have adequate layover time at their connecting airport, such as Campinas, to transfer to their final destination.