SSA Airport Insights & Guide
Key SSA Airport Topics:
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Salvador Magalhaes Airport (SSA) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SSA-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"SSA has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is primarily for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles international flights. If you’re connecting between domestic and international flights, give yourself at least 45 minutes to navigate between terminals." — João M., Lauro de Freitas, BA, August 2023
"Look for the blue signs to guide you through the terminals. They’re very helpful, especially if you’re in a rush. Also, the information desks are staffed with friendly personnel who speak multiple languages." — Ana P., Camaçari, BA, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is about 28 kilometers from downtown Salvador. The most convenient way to get there is by using the airport shuttle service, which runs every 30 minutes. It’s reliable and much cheaper than a taxi." — Carlos R., Salvador, BA, September 2023
"If you prefer public transport, the metro line connects directly to the airport. It’s a cost-effective option and takes around 50 minutes to reach the city center." — Maria F., Simões Filho, BA, October 2023
Parking
"SSA has several parking options, but the best value is the long-term parking lot. It’s a bit farther from the terminals, but a free shuttle runs every 10 minutes." — Pedro S., Salvador, BA, November 2023
"For short trips, the short-term parking lot is right next to Terminal 1. It’s more expensive, but incredibly convenient if you’re just picking someone up or dropping them off." — Laura G., Lauro de Freitas, BA, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"SSA has a great selection of food and shopping options. If you have time, try the local Bahian cuisine at one of the restaurants. The acarajé is a must-try!" — Bruno T., Salvador, BA, January 2024
"Don’t miss the duty-free shops in Terminal 2. They have an excellent selection of local products, perfect for last-minute souvenirs." — Fernanda L., Camaçari, BA, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the airport’s real-time wait times online before you leave for the airport. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during peak travel times." — Rafael D., Simões Filho, BA, March 2024
"Arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially if you’re flying internationally. Security lines can get long, and it’s better to be safe than sorry." — Mariana V., Salvador, BA, April 2024
iFly Tip: For a full range of air travel resources, check out our Flying Info and Tips page.
Getting to Know SSA Airport
Discover Salvador Airport, your entry to Brazil's colorful city of Salvador, renowned for handling millions of passengers with its unique capoeira performances. This concise guide equips you with essential information for a seamless journey through SSA. Whether it's your first visit or you're a regular, we streamline your airport experience.
Embark on your SSA journey with ease, using our guide for flight updates, terminal details, parking, dining, shopping, and more. Ensure a hassle-free trip and dive into the vibrant airport culture. For a deeper dive into airport insights, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.com.
Navigating SSA's Terminals
The airport, also known as SSA, has a single terminal with two concourses, A and B. Concourse A has 8 gates and Concourse B has 11 gates, making a total of 19 gates in the terminal. The airport is used by major airlines such as Gol, Azul, and LATAM.
Upon arrival at the airport, passengers will go through security and immigration before reaching the main terminal area. Once inside the terminal, passengers can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and services. There are duty-free shops, souvenir shops, and convenience stores for any last-minute needs. Dining options include fast food chains, cafes, and restaurants serving local cuisine.
Passengers can easily navigate the terminal with the help of signs and information screens displaying flight information and gate numbers. There are also information desks located throughout the terminal for any additional assistance needed.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Salvador Magalhaes Airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal is divided into two floors, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the upper level. There are no shuttle buses or trains available for getting between terminals since there is only one terminal building. However, passengers can easily walk between the arrival and departure areas within the same building. The walk time between the two areas is approximately 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how crowded the terminal is.
iFly Tip: Learn how to communicate your needs to airline staff with tips from our overweight passengers guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At SSA Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas in front of each terminal. However, it is important to note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles must not be left unattended at any time. Violators may be subject to fines or even towed.
For those waiting to pick up passengers, the airport offers convenient cell-phone waiting areas where drivers can park and wait for their party to call or text when they are ready to be picked up. This helps to alleviate traffic congestion and ensures a smooth flow of vehicles in and out of the airport.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers several parking options for travelers. There are both covered and uncovered parking lots and garages available at the airport. The parking facilities are located within walking distance of the airport terminals, making it easy to access them.
In addition to the on-site parking options, the airport also offers a cell phone waiting area for those who are picking up passengers. This area is free to use and allows drivers to wait for their passengers to arrive before entering the airport.
For travelers with disabilities, there are designated handicapped parking spots available in all of the parking facilities. These spots are located close to the airport terminals and are easily accessible.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is also available near Salvador Magalhaes Airport. These parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Transportation Options
SSA, located in Brazil, offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: SSA Airport provides several major car rental providers, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz, located within the airport premises. Travelers can book their rental cars in advance or upon arrival at the airport. The car rental center is conveniently located in the Arrivals Hall, and most services operate from early morning to late evening.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily accessible at SSA Airport, with designated drop-off and pick-up areas located just outside the terminal. Fares are typically calculated based on the distance traveled. It is advisable to confirm the fare with your driver before starting your journey. The average fare to the city center is approximately BRL 100, and the trip takes around 30 minutes.
- Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available at SSA Airport, offering a cost-effective transportation option. Designated pickup areas are located outside the terminal. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity before booking.
- Airport Shuttles: Several companies operate shuttle services to and from SSA Airport. Shuttle services are a convenient option for those traveling to nearby hotels or other destinations. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal, and it is recommended to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
- Public Transportation: SSA Airport is well-connected to Salvador's bus system. Several bus routes, including routes 1001, 1002, and 1003, stop at the airport, providing affordable transportation to various parts of the city. The average fare is around BRL 4, and tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or at designated ticket counters within the airport. The journey to the city center typically takes about 45 minutes.
Airport Hotels
Traveling can be exhausting, especially when flights are delayed or arrive late at night. The solution? Stay at a hotel near the airport. We have compiled a list of the best hotels near the airport. These accommodations offer a variety of amenities and are conveniently located within a short distance of the airport, making them ideal for air travelers. From the convenience of the Intercity Salvador Aeroporto to the tranquil escape of the Hotel Pousada Salvador Paradise, there is something for everyone. If you're seeking simplicity and proximity, the Onix Hotel Aeroporto might be your best bet. For those who enjoy shopping or dining out, the Apartamento 3/4 completo em frente ao Aeroporto is an excellent choice. And if you want to explore the coastal beauty, consider booking a stay at the charming beachfront property, Casa de praia no Flamengo. Check out our comprehensive list of Salvador Magalhães Airport Hotels now!
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at Salvador Airport, you're in luck. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit all tastes and needs.
For a quick snack or coffee, head to Café do Ponto, located in the Departures area. If you have more time to spare, check out the full-service restaurant, Casa do Pão de Queijo, which serves up delicious Brazilian snacks and sandwiches. Both options are located in the Domestic Terminal.
When it comes to shopping, the airport has a range of stores selling everything from souvenirs to electronics. If you're looking for a unique gift, stop by the Bahia Artisans store, which sells handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans. For tech gadgets and accessories, head to iStore, located in the International Terminal.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at SSA can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, lost and found services are available at the airport. Passengers can contact the airport's information desk for assistance.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, the airport features a children's play area located in the departure lounge, where kids can play and have fun before their flight.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Help: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located on the ground floor of the terminal building. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
- Airport Lounges: Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport features the VIP Lounge, accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs. The lounge is located after security in the departure area and offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides a quiet space with workstations and shower facilities for those needing to freshen up before a long journey.
Flight Status Info
As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight, especially if you're flying from Salvador Magalhaes Airport in Brazil. Luckily, there are several ways to check your flight status at this airport.
One of the easiest ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information, making it easy for passengers to stay informed.
Another option is to download the mobile app of the airline you're flying with. Many airlines offer apps that allow passengers to check their flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for their flight directly from their phone. Passengers can also opt to receive notifications via text, email, or push notifications through these apps.
Finally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Salvador Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport (SSA) is located in Salvador, Brazil.
- Terminals: The airport features two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, connected by a walkway.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including LATAM Airlines Brasil, Gol Airlines, and Azul Brazilian Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the SSA Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport handles approximately 30,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 220 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SSA are Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Belo Horizonte, and Recife.
- Hub Status: The airport serves as a hub for Azul Brazilian Airlines, Gol Airlines, LATAM Airlines Brasil, and Passaredo Linhas Aereas.
Airport History
Salvador Magalhaes Airport, located in Brazil, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1925: The airport was founded as a small airfield called Santo Amaro de Ipitanga Airport.
- 1941: The airport was renamed to its current name, Salvador Airport, in honor of a local politician.
- 1950s: The airport underwent major renovations and expansions to accommodate the increasing number of passengers and flights.
- 1960s: The airport became a hub for Brazilian airlines and saw a significant increase in international flights.
- 1990s: The airport underwent another round of renovations and expansions to modernize its facilities and improve passenger experience.
- 2019: The airport was privatized and is now operated by a private company, which has plans for further expansions and improvements.
Today, SSA is one of the busiest airports in Brazil, serving millions of passengers each year and connecting them to destinations all over the world.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Salvador International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: SSA
- Airport Website
- Phone: +55 71 3204-1010
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Aeroporto Internacional de Salvador, Praça Gago Coutinho, s/n - São Cristóvão, Salvador - BA, 41520-970, Brazil
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Salvador Magalhaes Airport Q&A
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