Philip Pontes has created a public petition to rename the Aerogare Civil das Lajes, located on Terceira Island in the Azores, after internationally renowned Azorean musician Nuno Bettencourt.
“It’s time to give the Terceira Island airport a dignified name, one that resonates beyond the archipelago and makes Terceira and the Azores proud. We propose that the current Lajes Civil Airport be renamed: Nuno Bettencourt International Airport,” writes the Terceirense, emphasizing that Nuno Bettencourt “is not just an Azorean guitarist, but one of the greatest guitarists of all time.”
“Acclaimed by legends such as Brian May, creator of solos that resurrect rock, and composer of anthems like ‘More Than Words,’ Nuno has brought the name of the Azores to the world’s most revered stages. Born in the city of Praia da Vitória, he has always proudly evoked the archipelago where he was born, where a legend was born. In addition to being a globally acclaimed artist, Nuno Bettencourt is known for his immense character, well-known to those who have had the privilege of knowing him, and evident to those who follow him from a distance,” the first signatory of the petition adds.
“If Madeira has Cristiano Ronaldo, it’s time for Terceira to have its own icon: A rock star. A true guitar god. An epic name for an airport that deserves more,” he further implores.
Within days, the petition has gathered over 400 supporters. However, not everyone agrees with the suggestion, leading to various discussions on social media.
“This must be a joke” and “that would be the last straw” are just a few of the comments. Some even engage in heated debates over what remains, at least for now, just a suggestion.
It should be noted that Nuno Bettencourt is a renowned guitarist, born in Praia da Vitória on Terceira Island, in the Azores, in 1966. He emigrated to the U.S. with his family at the age of four. Over the years, he built a solid and highly respected international career. Besides being part of the band Extreme, he has played with several renowned artists, including Rihanna and Steven Tyler.
Nuno Bettencourt Pays Tribute to Diogo Jota
The Portuguese guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, from the band Extreme, was present at Black Sabbath’s farewell concert, appearing on stage wearing the Liverpool jersey number 20 of Diogo Jota.
Notícias ao Minuto | 19:31 – 05/07/2025
Recently, Nuno Bettencourt paid tribute to Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident in early July. The tribute took place during a concert in Birmingham, England, at the farewell of the British band Black Sabbath.
The tribute came at the end of the event when singer Yungblud dedicated the song ‘Changes’ to the Portuguese player. Accompanying the artist was Nuno Bettencourt, guitarist of the band Extreme, who appeared on stage wearing Liverpool’s number 20 jersey with Diogo Jota’s name on it.
