Barcelos Airport (BAZ)

Barcelos Airport (BAZ) serves the municipality of Barcelos in the Amazonas State of Brazil. Located deep within the Amazon rainforest, on the banks of the Rio Negro, this regional airport is a crucial transport link for the remote community, primarily supporting general aviation, fishing tourism, and occasional government or humanitarian flights. It does not host scheduled commercial passenger services; most travelers utilize larger airports like Manaus (MAO) for commercial connections. The terminal building is a small, functional structure that provides basic services for passengers and aircraft operations, reflecting its role as a local airfield in a remote area.

Operational procedures at BAZ are informal and highly dependent on visual flight rules (VFR) and local weather conditions. There are no advanced security checkpoints, baggage handling systems, or traditional check-in counters. Passengers for specific flights usually coordinate directly with their operators or pilots. Security, if present, is minimal, handled by local authorities. Flights are prone to delays or cancellations due to tropical weather patterns, including heavy rainfall, which can significantly affect the unpaved runway and river levels, impacting ground access.

Amenities at Barcelos Airport are non-existent for the general public. Travelers should not expect any facilities such as restrooms, food vendors, or retail shops. It is essential for visitors to bring all necessary provisions, including water, snacks, and insect repellent, and to be prepared for the hot and humid tropical climate. All arrangements for accommodation and ground transportation in Barcelos must be made in advance, as the town has limited public facilities. The airport's primary function is to provide critical air access for local needs in this remote part of the Amazon.