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Gateway to Santa Maria Island in the Azores archipelago.
Opened
1944
Location
Vila do Porto, Portugal
Santa Maria Airport (IATA: SMA, ICAO: LPAZ) serves Vila do Porto on Santa Maria Island, the southernmost and oldest island in Portugal's Azores archipelago. The airport provides essential air links connecting the island to other Azorean islands and to mainland Portugal.
The airport is operated by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal and plays a vital role in supporting the island's tourism and local economy. Santa Maria Island is known for its warm, sunny climate and sandy beaches, making the airport an important entry point for visitors.
Historically, Santa Maria Airport holds significant importance as it was one of the first airports in the Azores and served as a key transatlantic refueling stop during the mid-20th century.
Terminals
The airport operates a single, modest passenger terminal suited to the island's small population and visitor numbers.
Getting to & from
Taxi services and rental cars are the primary ground transportation options connecting the airport to Vila do Porto and the rest of Santa Maria Island.
Airlines here
SATA Air Açores (Azores Airlines) is the primary carrier operating flights to and from Santa Maria Airport, connecting it to other Azorean islands and Lisbon.
Notable facts
- ›Santa Maria Airport was a critical transatlantic refueling stop for long-haul flights in the 1940s and 1950s.
- ›It is one of the oldest airports in the Azores archipelago.
- ›The airport is operated by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal.
- ›Santa Maria Island has the warmest and driest climate in the Azores, attracting beach tourism.
- ›The airport has hosted transatlantic air races and aviation historical events due to its mid-Atlantic location.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
