Ponta Delgada International Airport – PDL Joao Paulo II
Considered as the main airport of the Azores archipelago, Joao Paulo II Airport not only serves domestic flights but also international flights to Europe and North America. Named after the Pope John Paul II, Joao Paulo II Airport is situated on the island of São Miguel, Portugal. Construction of the airport began in 1963 and was inaugurated in 1969 by President Admiral Américo Tomás. PDL Airport is the 5th largest airport, which located in Ponta Delgada, Portugal. In fact, it served around 1.5 million passengers in 2016.
Best Time to Visit
Joao Paulo II Airport serves as a main hub for the SATA Group of airlines. It consists of one passenger terminal that caters to both domestic and international flights. The terminal is split into two levels. The ground level is for arrival, departure, and check-in areas. The first level is for restaurants and family restrooms. Despite being a small airport, it still offers upscale facilities and services to ensure quality service to its clients. Upon arrival at the PDL airport, visit some of the neighboring cities of Ponta Delgado such as the Calhetas and Candelária.
What to Do & Area Attractions
For security reasons, Ponta Delgado Airport closes at midnight and opens at five in the morning. Layover passengers can check-in at nearby Ponta Delgado hotels. Azoris Royal Garden offers contemporary rooms with the best ocean views while The Lince Azores Great Hotel is a modern hotel with a glass facade. These hotels are just 9 minutes' ride away from the airport. Other nearby airports of Ponta Delgado is the Santa Maria Airport, which is around 3 to 4 hours ride away from these hotels.
