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Santa Maria Airport (RIA) is a dual-use civilian and military airfield serving the city of Santa Maria in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. It shares its facilities with the Santa Maria Air Force Base (Base Aérea de Santa Maria), one of the most important operational bases of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) and a historic center of Brazilian military aviation. The airport handles scheduled domestic flights alongside military operations, making it a unique gateway to a city often called the 'Military Capital' of southern Brazil.
💡 Local Tip
If you have time between flights, head to the Santa Maria Air Force Base museum (Museu da Base Aérea), which features historic aircraft and exhibits on Brazilian military aviation — access is typically arranged through the main gate with proper identification.
🚖 Getting There
Taxis and rideshare services are the most reliable way to reach the airport, as there is no direct rail or metro connection. Booking a taxi in advance through your hotel is recommended, especially for early morning departures, as ride availability can be limited. Rental cars are available from agencies in Santa Maria city and can be arranged for pickup near the terminal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which airlines operate from Santa Maria Airport?
A: The airport is primarily served by regional and domestic carriers, including GOL Linhas Aéreas, which operates flights to São Paulo and other Brazilian destinations. Flight schedules and carriers may vary seasonally.
Q: Is Santa Maria Airport shared with the military?
A: Yes, the airport operates alongside the Santa Maria Air Force Base, which is one of the main FAB installations in southern Brazil. Civilian and military operations are coordinated at the same facility.
Q: How far is the airport from Santa Maria city center?
A: The airport is located approximately 12 km southeast of downtown Santa Maria, with a typical taxi or rideshare journey taking around 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Q: Does the airport have international flights?
A: No, Santa Maria Airport handles domestic flights only. The nearest major international gateway is Porto Alegre's Salgado Filho International Airport, roughly 290 km to the southeast.
AI-generated content · Generated Jun 29, 2026 · MiniMax-M3