Lages Airport (LAJ)

Antônio Correia Pinto de Macedo Airport (LAJ), identified by its ICAO code SULB (formerly SBLJ), is a regional aviation facility located in the highlands of Santa Catarina, Brazil, serving the city of Lages. The airport is currently undergoing a significant R$ 2.3 million infrastructure upgrade, scheduled for completion in May 2025, which includes a full renovation of the passenger terminal roof and the installation of a new 2.4-meter high perimeter fence to meet rigorous ANAC safety standards. While regular scheduled commercial services for the region have primarily migrated to the neighboring Correia Pinto Airport (EEA), Lages remains a critical node for executive aviation and regional logistics. The terminal building provides a functional environment tailored for non-commercial flight operations, managing approximately 70 rotations per month. Inside, the facility serves as a primary hub for specialized services including organ transport, aeromedical evacuations, and public safety flights for the Santa Catarina military police. Travelers utilizing the airport for private charters or business aviation will find essential waiting areas and administrative support, with the facility's design emphasizing rapid processing and high security for its niche operational focus. Infrastructure at Lages is centered around a 1,530-meter asphalt runway (16/34) equipped for both night operations and instrument landings (IFR). Ground transportation is well-supported by its proximity to the city center, situated just 6 kilometers from downtown Lages, providing a significantly faster connection than the 30-kilometer journey required for commercial jet services at Correia Pinto. As of 2026, the facility continues to play a vital role in supporting the region's prominent cattle ranching and timber industries, maintaining its status as a critical emergency and business aviation link for the Serra Catarinense highlands.