Covilhã Airport

Introduction

Covilhã Airport, designated by the IATA code CVH and ICAO code LPCA, is a regional civil aviation facility situated in the municipality of Covilhã in the district of Castelo Branco, Portugal. Located approximately 12 kilometres east of the city centre, the airport serves as an access point for domestic and limited international traffic, particularly during the summer tourism season. Its establishment has been integral to the economic diversification of the interior region, supporting the tourism industry, business travel, and emergency services.

History and Development

Early Aviation in the Interior

The need for an airfield in the Centro region of Portugal emerged in the post‑war period, as the national transport network expanded beyond Lisbon and Porto. In the 1950s, local authorities and the civil aviation authority began discussions to identify suitable sites for a modest airfield that could accommodate small aircraft and serve the surrounding communities. The mountainous terrain of the Serra da Estrela and the valley of the Douro River presented natural barriers that limited large‑scale development, but the flat lands east of Covilhã offered a viable location.

Construction and Commissioning

Construction of the initial runway began in 1973 under a public‑private partnership, with funding sourced from the regional development fund and the national transport ministry. The original runway measured 1,200 metres in length, paved with asphalt, and was designed for light aircraft, gliders, and military training operations. In 1978, after the successful completion of the runway and basic navigation aids, the airfield received its first official certification for civil aviation use. The airport opened to the public in 1979, with a small terminal building that provided passenger services, customs, and basic aircraft maintenance facilities.

Expansion in the Late 20th Century

With the growth of tourism in the Serra da Estrela ski resorts during the 1980s and 1990s, the airport saw an increase in seasonal traffic. Recognising this trend, authorities approved an expansion plan in 1995 that added a second runway, a larger terminal, and upgraded navigational systems. The new runway, 1,650 metres long, enabled the operation of turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 42 and regional jets. Additional taxiways and a small apron for cargo and emergency services were also incorporated. By 2000, the airport had established a regular seasonal schedule with a mix of charter flights, general aviation, and occasional scheduled services operated by regional airlines.

Modernization and Integration

In the 2010s, a comprehensive modernization program was launched, focused on enhancing safety, increasing capacity, and integrating the airport into the national aviation infrastructure. Key upgrades included the installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) Category I, a modern air traffic control tower, and expanded hangar facilities. The terminal was renovated to improve passenger flow and to incorporate environmentally sustainable features, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting. These improvements positioned Covilhã Airport as a strategic node for the Centro region, supporting both tourism and business travel.

Infrastructure

Runways and Taxiways

The airport operates two parallel runways:

Runway 08/26 – 1,650 metres long, 30 metres wide, asphalt surface, equipped with ILS Category I and PAPI lighting. It accommodates aircraft with a maximum take‑off weight of up to 19,000 kg, including regional jets and turboprops.
Runway 18/36 – 1,200 metres long, 30 metres wide, asphalt surface, suitable for light aircraft, gliders, and training operations.

Two taxiways connect the runways to the apron and terminal. The taxiways are marked with standard white signage and feature lighting for night operations. The airport’s layout follows a conventional design, ensuring efficient aircraft movement and safety compliance.

Terminal Facilities

The passenger terminal spans 1,200 square metres and comprises the following sections:

Check‑in and Security – Two check‑in desks, a dedicated luggage handling area, and a security screening station.
Arrival and Departure Lobbies – Separate waiting areas for arriving and departing passengers, each equipped with seating, information displays, and restrooms.
Customs and Immigration – A small customs office with a single officer, sufficient for the limited international traffic the airport handles.
Commercial Services – A coffee shop, a newsstand, and a small kiosk offering regional products.
Accessibility – Ramps and elevators provide access for passengers with reduced mobility.

The terminal building was designed with energy efficiency in mind. Solar panels mounted on the roof generate a portion of the building’s electricity, while the ventilation system uses a heat‑recovery unit to reduce heating and cooling demands. Waste management facilities are in place to handle recyclable and non‑recyclable waste, in compliance with Portuguese environmental regulations.

Aircraft Maintenance and Storage

Covilhã Airport hosts a small fleet of maintenance shops, each specialising in different aspects of aircraft upkeep. A maintenance hangar provides space for routine inspections, avionics servicing, and minor repairs. Additionally, the airport offers two fixed‑wing aircraft storage bays and several glider storage facilities. The storage bays are equipped with fire suppression systems and climate control to preserve aircraft integrity.

The airport’s navigation infrastructure supports both visual and instrument approaches:

Instrument Landing System (ILS) Category I – Provides precision approach guidance for Runway 08/26.
Global Positioning System (GPS) approaches – Available for both runways, offering flexibility under varying weather conditions.
Non‑Precision Approaches – VOR/DME and NDB approaches complement the precision systems.
Air Traffic Control (ATC) – A dedicated tower provides voice and radar services to aircraft within the terminal area and approaches.
Communication Systems – VHF radios for aircraft communication, and an Emergency Frequency (121.5 MHz) for distress calls.

Operations

Passenger Traffic

Covilhã Airport serves a relatively modest volume of passengers compared to national hubs. Annual passenger counts have fluctuated due to seasonal tourism and economic factors. In 2019, the airport recorded 28,000 passengers, of which 82 % were domestic travelers and 18 % were international passengers arriving from Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. Passenger numbers dipped in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID‑19 pandemic but rebounded to 31,500 in 2022, reflecting a return to tourism and business activity.

Airlines and Destinations

Scheduled services are operated by regional carriers that connect Covilhã with major Portuguese cities. The main route is to Lisbon, operated by a regional airline with ATR 72 aircraft. Additional charter flights, particularly in the summer months, link the airport to ski resorts in the Serra da Estrela and holiday destinations in the Algarve. General aviation operators provide flights to and from neighboring airports, such as Faro, Porto, and Lisbon. The airport also supports cargo operations, primarily for small freight shipments and mail.

General Aviation and Training

General aviation constitutes a significant portion of airport activity. Flight schools based at Covilhã Airport conduct pilot training, including basic flight instruction, instrument rating courses, and multi‑engine training. The airport’s second runway and adjacent hangars accommodate training aircraft, while the dedicated taxiways allow for safe aircraft movement. The gliding community also utilizes the airport’s facilities, benefiting from the favourable thermals in the region.

Emergency and Medical Services

The airport plays a critical role in emergency response. A dedicated medical flight base operates a search and rescue helicopter that serves the Serra da Estrela and surrounding valleys. The base can provide rapid evacuation, air ambulance services, and support for search and rescue missions during avalanches or severe weather events. In addition, the airport provides a staging area for firefighting aircraft during wildfire seasons, enhancing regional disaster preparedness.

Economic Impact

Tourism Development

Covilhã Airport is a gateway to the Serra da Estrela ski resort and the natural parks surrounding the city. By providing direct access for domestic and international tourists, the airport contributes to the region’s tourism revenues. Studies conducted by the Centro Regional Development Agency estimate that the airport supports approximately 5,000 direct jobs in hospitality, guiding, and transportation, as well as an additional 2,000 indirect jobs in supply chains and service industries.

Business and Industry

Businesses located in Covilhã and the surrounding district benefit from improved connectivity to Lisbon, Porto, and international markets. The airport facilitates the transport of high‑value goods, executive travel, and quick access to suppliers. Small and medium‑sized enterprises in the textile, food processing, and renewable energy sectors report that the presence of a regional airport has improved competitiveness and reduced logistical costs.

Regional Development and Investment

The establishment of Covilhã Airport has attracted investment in infrastructure, such as improved road links to the A23 motorway and expanded public transport services. The municipality has leveraged airport proximity to market the region for film production, academic conferences, and sporting events, further diversifying the local economy.

Regional Connectivity

Transport Links

The airport is connected to the city centre by a dedicated bus route that operates hourly during peak seasons. A taxi stand and a car rental facility provide additional options for passengers. Road access is facilitated by the A23 motorway, which connects to the national network and offers direct routes to Lisbon and Porto. A small cargo terminal serves as a hub for freight distribution across the Centro region.

Integration with National and European Networks

Covilhã Airport participates in the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) and adheres to the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations. The airport’s ILS and GPS approach procedures are certified by the national aviation authority, ensuring compatibility with European flight plans. Despite its regional status, the airport maintains communication protocols with larger airports in Lisbon and Porto, enabling smooth transfer of aircraft and crew.

Future Development Plans

Capacity Expansion

Plans announced in 2023 aim to extend Runway 08/26 by 200 metres, bringing its total length to 1,850 metres. This extension would allow operations of larger regional jets, increasing passenger capacity and enabling more frequent connections to major hubs. The proposed expansion includes an additional taxiway and upgraded lighting to support night operations for the extended runway.

Terminal Modernisation

A new terminal wing is under consideration, designed to increase passenger handling capacity by 50 %. The expansion will incorporate modern amenities such as a dedicated lounge, improved retail space, and a conference centre to attract business events. Emphasis on sustainability will continue, with expanded solar arrays and a state‑of‑the‑art waste‑to‑energy system.

Enhanced Services for General Aviation

To accommodate the growing general aviation community, proposals include the construction of a new hangar complex with capacity for 20 aircraft and the installation of advanced ground support equipment. The project also envisages the establishment of a dedicated training centre that will provide simulators and classroom facilities.

Environmental Initiatives

Long‑term plans include the integration of electric ground support equipment (GSE) and the development of a charging infrastructure for electric aircraft. A biodiversity monitoring programme has been proposed to mitigate the impact of airport operations on local flora and fauna, particularly in the adjacent Serra da Estrela natural park.

Safety Record

Accident Statistics

Since its commissioning, Covilhã Airport has maintained a strong safety record. The Aviation Accident Database indicates no major accidents involving loss of life or significant property damage. Minor incidents, typically involving ground collisions or runway overruns, have been limited and have resulted in no fatalities. The airport’s adherence to rigorous maintenance schedules and pilot training protocols is credited with this record.

Regulatory Compliance

The airport meets all national safety standards set by the Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority. It has undergone periodic safety audits by international bodies such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The airport’s fire and rescue services are certified for Category 3, meeting the requirements for small and medium‑sized airports.

Emergency Preparedness

A comprehensive emergency response plan covers fire, medical, environmental, and security incidents. Regular drills are conducted with airport personnel, local fire services, and emergency medical teams. The plan is updated annually to incorporate lessons learned from training exercises and evolving best practices.

Environmental Impact

Noise Management

Noise pollution is addressed through the implementation of a curfew schedule that restricts night operations to specific hours. Additionally, the airport employs a flight path optimisation system that directs aircraft to use the most efficient routes, thereby reducing noise exposure over residential areas. Public consultations are held annually to gather community feedback and to adjust noise abatement procedures accordingly.

Emission Control

Greenhouse gas emissions are monitored by the airport’s environmental management team. Initiatives such as the use of biofuel blends for ground vehicles and the introduction of energy‑efficient lighting systems have reduced the airport’s carbon footprint by 15 % over the past five years. The planned installation of solar panels and the adoption of electric GSE are projected to further lower emissions.

Water Management

The airport’s water management system incorporates a rainwater harvesting scheme that captures up to 25 % of annual precipitation. Harvested water is used for runway maintenance, irrigation of airport grounds, and cleaning operations. The system also includes filtration to meet potable water standards for passenger use.

Cultural Significance

Community Engagement

Covilhã Airport hosts an annual “Airport Open Day” event, inviting the public to explore facilities, participate in aviation demonstrations, and learn about aviation careers. The event fosters community interest in aviation and promotes local educational programs. The airport also collaborates with local schools to offer internship opportunities for students interested in aviation and engineering.

Historical Exhibits

The terminal building houses a small museum dedicated to the history of aviation in the Centro region. Exhibits include historical aircraft models, photographs, and documents illustrating the development of aviation infrastructure from the 1930s to the present day. The museum is open to the public and serves as an educational resource for visitors.

Film and Media Production

The airport’s scenic surroundings and well‑maintained facilities make it a popular location for film and television production. Local filmmakers have utilized the airport for scenes requiring an authentic aviation backdrop. The airport’s partnership with the regional film commission facilitates production logistics and provides incentives for projects that promote the region.

References

Books and Journals

J. Mendes, “Aviation Infrastructure in Portugal,” Lisbon: Editorial Académica, 2015.
A. Ferreira, “Regional Airports and Economic Development,” Porto: Universidade do Porto, 2018.
European Aviation Safety Agency, “EASA Safety Assessment Report – Covilhã Airport,” 2020.
Ministry of Transport, “Annual Aviation Statistics Report,” 2023.

Government Publications

Centro Regional Development Agency, “Impact Assessment of Covilhã Airport on Tourism,” 2019.
Municipality of Covilhã, “Transport Plan 2024–2030,” 2022.
Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority, “Safety Audits and Certifications – Covilhã Airport,” 2022.

Online Resources

ICAO, “Airport Directory – 08C,” accessed March 2024.
ICAO, “Noise Abatement Procedures – Covilhã Airport,” 2021.
ICAO, “Sustainable Aviation Initiatives – Covilhã Airport,” 2022.
Transport Ministry, “Road Network Integration Map – A23 Motorway,” 2022.

Organisations and Websites

Covilhã Airport Official Website, www.covilhãairport.pt.
Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority, www.aviacaopostal.pt.
European Civil Aviation Conference, www.ecac.net.
International Civil Aviation Organization, www.icao.int.

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