Una-Comandatuba Airport (UNA)

Una-Comandatuba Airport (IATA: UNA, ICAO: SBTC) is a privately administered public-use airport that serves as the primary air gateway to the island of Comandatuba and the southern coast of Bahia, Brazil. Its main role is to facilitate access for tourists visiting the region, particularly the Transamerica Resort Comandatuba, which is the airport's principal user. The airport's infrastructure is designed to provide a direct and efficient entry point for visitors, significantly reducing travel time compared to arriving via the larger airports in Ilhéus or Porto Seguro.

Opened in the late 1980s to support the development of the resort, the airport's history is directly tied to the growth of luxury tourism in this secluded part of Brazil. Its existence was a strategic necessity, enabling the resort to attract national and international guests by offering convenient access via charter and scheduled flights. The airport features a runway capable of handling mid-sized jet aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, which has been crucial for its operation.

Located on the mainland in the municipality of Una, the airport is situated just across a narrow channel from Comandatuba Island. Access for nearly all travelers is pre-arranged through the resort. Upon arrival, guests are met by resort staff and shuttled a short distance to a private pier for a brief ferry crossing to the island. Independent travel from the airport is uncommon, as there are no regular taxi or ride-sharing services available.

Operations at Una-Comandatuba consist almost exclusively of domestic flights, often operating on a seasonal or charter basis. Major Brazilian airlines, notably Azul Linhas Aéreas, provide scheduled service from key hubs like São Paulo (Viracopos) and Belo Horizonte, with flight frequencies increasing during peak holiday seasons. The passenger volume is modest and fluctuates with tourist demand, creating an uncrowded and streamlined airport experience.

The airport facilities are functional and tailored to its boutique nature. A single, small terminal building houses check-in counters, a basic waiting lounge, and restroom facilities. Amenities are limited; there are no extensive shops, restaurants, or executive lounges. The focus is on rapid and comfortable passenger processing, from deplaning to the resort transfer.

For travelers flying to Una-Comandatuba, it is advisable to arrive 90 minutes to two hours before a departing flight. The most critical tip is to confirm ground and sea transportation with your hotel or resort in advance, as it is the only reliable way to reach your final destination. As a point-to-point destination airport, it does not serve as a hub for connecting flights.