Picos Airport (PCS)

Sen. Helvídio Nunes Regional Airport (PCS), also known as Aeroporto de Picos, is a regional aviation facility serving the city of Picos in the state of Piauí, Brazil. The airport features a single, functional passenger terminal building designed to handle approximately 10,000 travelers annually, primarily supporting general aviation, air taxis, and critical medical transport (SAMU aéreo). It acts as a vital infrastructure link for the southeastern region of the state, located approximately 5 miles (8 km) northwest of the city center. The terminal infrastructure is modest and focused on essential services, providing a functional waiting lounge and basic check-in counters for domestic travelers. Following recent state and federal investments, the facility has been upgraded with a new night lighting system (balizamento), allowing for 24-hour emergency operations and medical evacuations which were previously restricted to daylight hours. While the building lacks large-scale commercial amenities like retail shops or full-service restaurants, it provides a secure environment for passengers and administrative offices for the airport operator, Esaero. Operationally, the airport features a single 5,384-foot (1,641m) asphalt runway (14/32) and is currently included in a major R$ 424 million federal investment package for Northeast airports to further modernize its terminal and direct infrastructure. As of early 2026, the facility primarily serves non-scheduled flights, with most commercial travelers to the region utilizing Teresina Airport (THE) as a primary hub. Ground transportation to central Picos is well-supported by local taxi services and private vehicle access via the BR-316 highway, providing a quick link to the city's main districts.