The expansion project for Ponta Delgada Airport will be undertaken in phases between 2025 and 2030. The objective is to ensure the airport remains operational throughout the construction period. ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal’s CEO, Thierry Ligonnière, discussed the planned expansion, emphasizing that the airport is currently processing passengers.
The renovation aims to double the terminal area, adding 15,000 square meters to Ponta Delgada Airport.
Plans include expanding the check-in area, which will more than double its current capacity, as well as enlarging boarding gates, security control, and border control areas.
“The first stage is to free up capacity on this side [current VIP lounge] to allow an initial capacity expansion while simultaneously working on the opposite terminal side. This phase begins in 2027,” he explained.
The chairman of ANA’s board, part of the Vinci group, expressed gratitude to the Regional Government (PSD/CDS-PP/PPM) for their support and highlighted the “radical transformation” that João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada is set to undergo.
“This project represents a radical change and signifies Vinci and ANA’s commitment to the Azores,” emphasized José Luis Arnaut.
The Regional Government President acknowledged the fulfillment of ANA’s commitment following a justified demand from the region to “increase installed capacity” at the archipelago’s busiest airport.
“We are taking a step forward. It’s an act of proactivity, preparing the installed capacities in the Azores to welcome our visitors and Azoreans by air,” he noted.
José Manuel Boleiro also cautioned that the Azorean Government will closely monitor the fulfillment of the deadlines.
“We will remain vigilant to ensure commitments are honored. The government will maintain a stance of vigilance and oversight to meet these deadlines and objectives,” he stated.
The ANA CEO noted that around 20 million euros have already been invested in the Ponta Delgada and Horta airports.
In Ponta Delgada, investments included facade renovations, replacement of floors, walls, and ceilings, installation of new furniture and signage, and implementation of new technologies, totaling approximately 10 million euros.
Horta Airport also received a 10 million euro investment in coatings and in the control and security areas, boarding and disembarkation areas, and commercial space.
On August 30, 2023, the ANA president announced that João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada would be expanded by 4,000 square meters by 2027, increasing its area by 30%.
