Lajes Airport Terminal Map (2025)
Location: Praia da Vitória, Autonomous Region of Azores
Start your trip planning with the most up-to-date Lajes Airport Terminal Map.
Lajes Airport (TER) is a joint civil-military airport located on Terceira Island in the Azores, Portugal. It serves both commercial flights and the Portuguese and U.S. Air Forces. The airport handles international travel and military operations, making it strategically important in the North Atlantic.
The ground floor places airline check-in counters and baggage claim near the Arrivals Hall, making connections straightforward. Upstairs, passengers will find security screening leading directly to departure gates.
Travelers often take advantage of the airport’s shuttle service and nearby hotels such as Hotel Praia Marina or Atlantida Mar. This map helps you quickly locate key services before you land or when preparing to depart.
Lajes Airport Terminal Departures Map 2025
In 2025, Lajes Airport saw the official opening of the Terceira–Zurich international route, expanding its network to five destinations including San Francisco, Boston, Toronto, and Lisbon. The Regional Government approved an incentive program to attract additional air routes, aligning with conditions at other airports in the region. From September 2025 through January 2026, nationwide airport strikes in Portugal posed potential disruptions to travel. Earlier in January, the airport confirmed surpassing one million annual passengers at the end of 2024.
Lajes Airport Terminal Arrivals Map 2025
In 2025, Lajes Airport Terminal Arrivals underwent expansion and modernization works financed with European Union funds, including a €40 million terminal upgrade and €10 million apron refurbishment. The southern terminal building was expanded to house technical areas for the transformer station, power generators, and HVAC system. Renovations included the remodeling of the non-Schengen arrivals room, construction of new SEF border police facilities, and refurbishment of the arrivals lobby. Additionally, a government-approved incentive program was launched to attract new commercial air routes.
Questions about Lajes Airport Terminal Arrivals Map 2025
Where is the arrivals hall located at Lajes Airport Terminal? The arrivals hall at Lajes Airport is located on the ground floor of the main terminal, opposite the departures check-in area. After disembarking, passengers proceed through passport control and baggage claim before entering the arrivals area, which has access to transportation and passenger pick-up zones.
What facilities are available in the arrivals area of Lajes Airport? The arrivals area at Lajes Airport offers baggage claim, customs processing, car rental desks, restrooms, and a passenger pick-up zone. Limited food and beverage options may be available, and local transportation services such as taxis are accessible directly outside the terminal.
Where can I find baggage claim at Lajes Airport? Baggage claim at Lajes Airport is located on the ground floor of the main terminal, within the arrivals area. After exiting the aircraft, passengers follow signs through passport control to the baggage claim zone, which is adjacent to customs inspection and passenger exit points.
How long does it usually take to clear customs and immigration at Lajes Airport? Clearing customs and immigration at Lajes Airport typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on passenger volume and flight schedules. During peak times or multiple arrivals, processing may take longer. The airport’s small size generally allows for faster clearance than larger international terminals.
Lajes Airport Terminal Check-In Map 2025
In 2025, Lajes Airport Terminal Check-In updated its official counter opening and closing deadlines, with passenger information reflecting changes based on departure airports and flight times. The airport confirmed continued availability of lounges, dining, and general passenger facilities as part of updated travel guides. Additionally, the Top of the Rock Commons expanded operating hours from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, offering travelers access to dining, entertainment, events, games, a movie theater, a travel agent, and free Wi-Fi.
Questions about Lajes Airport Terminal Check-In Map 2025
Where are the airline check-in counters located at Lajes Airport Terminal? The airline check-in counters at Lajes Airport are located on the ground floor of the main terminal, near the main entrance. Passengers entering the terminal will find the counters directly ahead, with signage directing them to specific airline desks and baggage drop areas.
How early should I arrive at Lajes Airport to check in for my flight? Arrive at Lajes Airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This ensures enough time for check-in, security, and boarding, especially since the airport handles both civilian and military operations, which may affect processing times.
Does Lajes Airport have self-service check-in kiosks? Lajes Airport does not have self-service check-in kiosks. All passengers must check in at staffed airline counters. Travelers should arrive early to allow sufficient time for manual check-in and baggage handling, especially during peak travel periods.
Lajes Airport Terminal Parking Map 2025
In 2025, Lajes Airport Terminal Parking continued to provide both short-term and long-term options, with spaces situated within a short walking distance of the terminal. These facilities followed the earlier completion of the arrivals square parking lot and expansion of outdoor areas surrounding the terminal, including improved access ways to the arrivals zone. The maintained availability of these parking services ensured consistent operational support for passengers during the year.
Questions about Lajes Airport Terminal Parking Map 2025
Where is the main parking lot located at Lajes Airport Terminal? The main parking lot at Lajes Airport is located directly in front of the terminal building. It offers short-term and long-term parking options within walking distance of the departures and arrivals areas. Signage at the airport entrance directs vehicles to the designated parking zones.
How much does parking cost at Lajes Airport? Parking at Lajes Airport typically costs around €1 per hour for short-term parking and approximately €5 to €7 per day for long-term parking. Rates may vary based on duration and season, so travelers should check with airport authorities or signage for updated pricing.
Does Lajes Airport offer both short-term and long-term parking options? Yes, Lajes Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options. The main parking lot is located in front of the terminal and provides easy access for travelers. Signage at the entrance directs drivers to the appropriate areas based on parking duration.
Printable Lajes Airport Terminal Departures Map PDF 2025
Questions about Lajes Airport Terminal Departures Map 2025
What time should I arrive at Lajes Airport before my departing flight? Arrive at Lajes Airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This allows time for check-in, security screening, and potential delays. Lajes Airport serves both civilian and military operations, so early arrival ensures smooth processing.
Where is the departures check-in area located at Lajes Airport Terminal? The departures check-in area at Lajes Airport is located on the ground floor of the main terminal building. Upon entering the terminal, passengers can find the check-in counters directly ahead, near the entrance. Clear signage guides travelers to airline-specific counters and baggage drop-off points.
Are there self-service kiosks or bag-drop counters for departures? Lajes Airport does not currently offer self-service kiosks or automated bag-drop counters. All check-in and baggage services are handled at staffed airline counters. Passengers should arrive early to allow time for manual check-in and baggage processing.
What airlines operate from the Lajes Airport departures terminal? Airlines operating from the Lajes Airport departures terminal include Azores Airlines (SATA), TAP Air Portugal, and Ryanair. These carriers offer flights to mainland Portugal, other Azorean islands, and select European destinations. Airline operations may vary seasonally, so passengers should check schedules in advance.
FAQ
Is there still a US military base in the Azores?
Yes, the United States maintains a military presence at Lajes Field in the Azores. Lajes Field is operated jointly with the Portuguese Air Force and serves as a strategic refueling and logistics hub in the North Atlantic. The base supports U.S. military operations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
What is the closest airport to Lajes Portugal?
The closest airport to Lajes, Portugal, is Lajes Airport (TER), located on Terceira Island in the Azores. It is the primary airport serving the area, handling both civilian and military flights. No other commercial airport is closer, as Lajes is on an island with limited nearby alternatives.
How long is the runway at Lajes Airport?
The runway at Lajes Airport is 3,314 meters (10,873 feet) long. It is one of the longest runways in the North Atlantic, built to support large military aircraft and heavy transatlantic operations. Its length makes it suitable for emergency landings and international refueling stops.
What country is Lajes in?
Lajes is located in Portugal. It is a parish on Terceira Island, which is part of the Azores archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean. The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, making Lajes part of Portuguese territory.
