João Simões Lopes Neto International Airport

Overview

Pelotas International Airport (IATA: PET) is the primary air gateway for the city of Pelotas and the surrounding region in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Classified as an international airport, it primarily handles domestic flights, connecting the southern part of the state to major hubs such as São Paulo (Congonhas and Guarulhos) and Porto Alegre. The airport also serves general aviation and occasional charter flights. Its role is vital for travellers visiting the area for business, education, or tourism, as well as for local residents who rely on it for access to other parts of the country.

The airport is managed by CCR Aeroportos, a private concessionaire that oversees several airports in Brazil. Given its regional nature, the terminal is compact and straightforward, designed to handle a moderate volume of passengers with efficiency. It is not a large international hub but rather a convenient facility for those flying to or from the southernmost parts of Brazil.

Location & Access

Pelotas International Airport sits approximately 5 kilometres northeast of Pelotas’s city centre, making it easily reachable by road. The airport is located off the BR-116 highway, one of Brazil’s main longitudinal routes, which connects it directly to downtown Pelotas and beyond. For passengers driving, there is a free parking lot on site – a confirmed amenity that adds convenience for those leaving their vehicles during a trip.

Accessibility is well catered for: the airport has a wheelchair-accessible car park, a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and wheelchair-accessible toilets. Passengers with reduced mobility will find the terminal thoughtfully designed to accommodate their needs.

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available from the airport to the city centre and surrounding areas. While public bus services exist from Pelotas to the terminal, schedules can be limited, so many travellers opt for private transport. The airport also serves nearby cities: Rio Grande, about 50 kilometres south, and Porto Alegre, approximately 250 kilometres north. For those heading towards the Uruguayan border, the town of Chuí is about 200 kilometres south, accessible via the BR-471 highway.

Facilities

Pelotas International Airport provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for passengers. Confirmed facilities include:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park – designated spaces close to the terminal entrance.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance – barrier-free access for mobility aids.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet – a fully adapted restroom.
• Baggage storage – a service for storing luggage, useful for layovers or before check-in. Details on pricing and hours are best confirmed at the airport.
• Toilet with changing table – family-friendly facilities for parents travelling with infants.
• Free parking lot – no cost for parking, a rarity that many travellers appreciate.

The terminal is modest in size, and while it may not feature extensive shopping or dining outlets, it covers the basics. Vending machines are typically available for snacks and drinks. For a more substantial meal, passengers can find options in the city centre before or after their flight. As a regional airport, the focus is on practicality rather than luxury, and the amenities reflect that.

About the Region

Pelotas is a city steeped in history and culture, situated on the shores of the Lagoa dos Patos, the largest lagoon in Brazil. The region is known for its well-preserved historic centre, with Portuguese colonial architecture, ornate mansions, and cobblestone streets. In the 19th century, Pelotas was a wealthy centre for the cattle and leather industries, and that heritage is visible in landmarks such as the Cathedral of São Francisco de Paula and the Mercado Central.

Today, Pelotas is a vibrant university town, home to the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), which draws students and academics from across Brazil. The city’s cultural calendar includes events like the Fenadoce (National Fair of Sweets), celebrating the region’s famous confectionery traditions. Beyond the city, the surrounding area is agricultural, producing rice, soybeans, and livestock. The nearby coast, including the beach resort of Praia do Laranjal, offers swimming, sailing, and relaxation.

The airport serves as a gateway for travellers exploring southern Brazil’s unique landscape – the pampas grasslands, the gaucho culture, and the proximity to Uruguay. Visitors come for business, academic conferences, or to experience the region’s natural beauty and historical charm.

Practical Information

Pelotas International Airport is not open 24 hours a day; its operating hours align with flight schedules, which typically focus on the late afternoon and early evening – peak hours are around 6 pm and 7 pm. Passengers should plan their arrival accordingly and check with their airline for current flight timings.

• Website: https://www.ccraeroportos.com.br/pelotas-rs
• Phone: +55 800 727 4720 (toll-free number in Brazil)

For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and any temporary changes, travellers are advised to consult the official website or contact the airport directly. The terminal is managed by CCR Aeroportos, which also operates several other airports in the country. While compact, the airport provides a reliable and accessible entry point to the southernmost region of Brazil.