Serafin Enoss Bertaso Airport

Aeroporto de Chapeco - Serafim Enoss Bertaso sits 12 kilometres west of downtown Chapeco, serving the agricultural heart of western Santa Catarina. With a single terminal handling domestic flights, it connects this inland city to São Paulo, Campinas, and other Brazilian hubs. Though compact, the airport handles a steady flow of business travellers and passengers visiting relatives or attending events in the region. Its location near major highways makes it accessible for travellers coming from neighbouring states.

Getting There

Chapeco Airport is reachable by car, taxi, or ride-hailing services from the city centre. The drive along BR-282 and local roads takes about 20 minutes in light traffic, though heavier flows during peak hours can stretch it to 35. Taxis are available at the airport and downtown; expect a fare around R$50–70 depending on the exact destination. Uber and 99 operate in Chapeco, offering a slightly cheaper alternative. For those driving, the airport is signposted from the main highway, and parking options include both free and paid lots near the terminal. The free lot lies a short walk from the entrance, while the paid lot sits directly in front, costing roughly R$10–20 per day. Public bus service is limited; the line 07 (Aeroporto) runs infrequently from the central bus station, so it’s not recommended for time-sensitive travellers. Most visitors rely on private transport.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Chapeco Airport is small but functional. Arrivals and departures share the same building, with check-in counters on one side and baggage claim on the other. Security screening is efficient, though queues can form before the busiest flight times, which are around 3 pm from Monday to Thursday. The waiting area after security offers basic seating and a view of the single runway. Facilities include a baggage storage service, useful for passengers with layovers or extended waits. Wheelchair-accessible features are present: an accessible entrance, designated parking, a toilet, and a changing table in the restroom. Toilets are clean but limited in number. There is no major food court; a small café sells snacks, coffee, and sandwiches, but meal options are minimal. Passengers should eat before arriving or bring snacks for longer waits. The atmosphere is no-frills but orderly, with staff generally helpful.

Aeroporto de Chapeco - Serafim Enoss Bertaso and Chapeco

Chapeco is the economic powerhouse of western Santa Catarina, known for its agribusiness sector. The city is a major producer of poultry, pork, and grains, hosting some of Brazil’s largest food processing companies, such as BRF (owner of the Sadia and Perdigão brands). This industrial base drives much of the air traffic, with business travellers flying in for meetings and plant inspections. But Chapeco also has a cultural and historical identity that draws visitors. The city gained international attention after the 2016 Chapecoense air disaster, when the football team’s plane crashed near Medellín, Colombia, killing most of the squad. The Chapéu the stadium, the team’s home ground, and a memorial museum honour the victims and the club’s resilience. Outside football, the region offers natural attractions: the nearby Foz do Chapecó Hydroelectric Plant creates a reservoir popular for water sports, and the Eco Rota road trip highlights rural landscapes, waterfalls, and local wineries. The city’s cuisine features strong Italian and German influences, with churrascarias and family-run restaurants serving hearty portions. Annual events like the Efapi (agricultural fair) and the Chapecó Oktoberfest draw thousands. For most travellers, the airport is the first point of contact with this dynamic region, and its straightforward layout sets a practical tone for a visit focused on business or exploration.

Practical Information

The airport is open daily from early morning until the last flight, typically around 10 pm, but hours can vary. It is not a 24-hour facility, so plan accordingly. Contact information: website www.chapeco-aero.com.br provides flight schedules and parking details. The busiest days are Monday through Thursday around 3 pm, so arrive at least 90 minutes before those departures to clear security. Carry cash, as some taxi drivers and the coffee shop may not accept cards. The paid parking lot is worth the fee if you value proximity; the free lot requires a five-minute walk. One concrete tip: if you are connecting through Campinas (Viracopos) to Chapeco, flights are frequent but often delayed in the afternoon; allow extra time for onward connections. Finally, bring a jacket even in summer — the terminal air conditioning can be strong, and Chapeco’s elevation (670 metres) can make evenings cool.