Pinheiro Airport (PHI)

Pinheiro Airport (PHI), officially known as Aeroporto Regional de Pinheiro – Prefeito Diogo de Sousa, is a domestic aviation facility serving the Baixada Maranhense region in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. The airport functions primarily as a regional landing ground and is currently undergoing a major revitalization project led by the State Government to modernize its infrastructure. It acts as a critical link for the surrounding agricultural and fishing communities, primarily supporting air taxis, private charters, and essential medical transport.

The current terminal infrastructure is modest and focused on basic transit services, providing a functional waiting area and administrative offices. However, as of early 2026, the facility is nearing the completion of a comprehensive upgrade that includes an expanded passenger terminal building, new security fencing, and modernized access roads. While the building lacks large-scale commercial amenities like retail shops or food courts, it provides a secure environment for travelers and pilots transitioning to the interior of the state.

Operationally, the airport features a substantial 5,709-foot (1,740m) asphalt runway capable of supporting medium-sized aircraft like the Boeing 737. The ongoing upgrades include the installation of a new night lighting system (*balizamento noturno*), which will eventually allow for 24-hour emergency operations and medical evacuations. Ground transportation to central Pinheiro, located approximately 3.7 miles (6 km) to the southeast along the MA-106 highway, is informal and typically managed via local taxi services or pre-arranged private vehicle transfers.