About The Airport

FAO, your opportunity destination in 5 key points:

1.    Strategic location

Faro International Airport is located 4 km from Faro, the capital city of the Algarve in Portugal, on the South coast of Portugal, serving this region and the southwest coast of Spain – Andalucia (Huelva/Seville).
FAO is the gateway of the number 1 summer destination in Portugal, after Lisbon, in terms of number of international tourists (3,7 M guests in 2023).
The Algarve is one of Europe's top tourist destinations, offering a diverse landscape, miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a vibrant nightlife and award-winning European golf courses favored by golfers from all over the world.

2.    A growing market

FAO reached 9.6 million passengers in 2023, surpassing the 2019 passenger level by 7%.
The top 10 airlines are Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2.com, Transavia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, TAP, Eurowings, TUI and Lufthansa, and they accounted for 91% of traffic in 2023.
But FAO is growing internationally, especially on the transatlantic market. After the growth of Air Transat initiated in the W23/24 period and pursued in S24, United Airlines will be launching in May 2024 the first direct service between FAO and the USA.

3.    A booming leisure destination

The Algarve stands as one of Portugal's foremost tourist destinations, celebrated for its breathtaking coastline, balmy weather, and rich cultural heritage. In 2023, it played host to a significant portion of Portugal's international visitors, accounting for 21% of the total, with a remarkable influx of 3.6 million tourists. This remarkable figure underscores the region's allure among travelers in search of sunshine, leisure, and the splendor of nature.

4.    Growing foreign communities settling in FAO´s catchment area

The Algarve has become a haven for individuals seeking employment opportunities or a serene retirement lifestyle. With over 100,000 foreign residents as of 2022, constituting 23% of the region's population, it has emerged as a melting pot of cultures and nationalities.
In addition to their VFR potential, these foreign communities represent a major source of consumers with high purchasing power, boosting the outbound demand from the Algarve. In S23, foreign passengers represented 68% of FAO outbound market (the highest share among the ANA Airports). A real advantage for all destinations opened from FAO.

5.    Attracting Investment and quality product

The Algarve is growing with a high-end product, offering a wide selection of 4- and 5-star hotels, Spas & Wellness, sports training centers and modern conference rooms. Since 2014, the number of hotel rooms in 5* has grown by 41%, especially due to the investment of major international brands (Hilton, Hyatt, Wyndham, Marriot and Highgate).

FAO, did you know?

• The Algarve is also a winter destination. In comparison, the number of tourists in the Algarve increased the most between October and December 2023 in comparison with 2019 and during the summer months.
  
  
• With its consistently mild climate throughout the year and an extensive coastline, the Algarve presents an idyllic playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering optimal conditions for a wide array of sports. From golfing, cycling, and hiking to surfing, nautical activities, and even birdwatching, the region caters to diverse interests, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
  
  
• In 2022, its name was changed to Gago Coutinho, in honor of the navigator for completed the first aerial crossing of the South Atlantic Ocean from March to June 1922.
  
  
• According to our passenger survey, 93% of the inbound passengers traveling to FAO were staying in the Algarve region. This shows real interest in the Algarve product.
  
  
• A Hard Rock hotel is to be opened in the Algarve. It will be the first one in Portugal.