Rent a Car Madeira Airport
Madeira Airport, or Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, is Madeira’s main airport situated in Santa Cruz, on the island’s eastern side. Madeira Airport plays a pivotal role in cargo and passenger movement in and out of Madeira’s archipelago. Madeira Airport is located 16 kilometers northeast of the capital, just after the tourist resort of Santa Catarina. Built on stilts and perched between the high cliffs and mountains of the island's east coast, the airport has just one passenger terminal, largely underground, with 16 boarding gates and 40 check-in counters. Madeira Airport is quite small and well laid out. When you arrive, you will follow a signposted route that will quickly take you to the baggage hall and exit. Once you have passed the security checks, you can access duty-free shops and additional facilities. When you exit the airport, our helpful staff will be there to welcome you and take you to your chosen vehicle. Imperial Car Rental offers bargain prices, quality vehicles, and exceptional customer service at Madeira Airport.
Madeira Airport has long had the reputation of being one of the most dangerous airports in the world until the year 2000. This is because the runway was very short and has been extended, with the particularity of now having a section on stilts. The problem of the length of the landing strip has, therefore, been resolved. When leaving the airport, you will pass under these enormous concrete pillars. Pilots have to undergo additional training before landing at Madeira Airport. In 2004, Madeira Airport received the Outstanding Structure Award by the IABSE. It is now fully operational and the fourth busiest airport in the country.
Car Hire Madeira Airport
Madeira Airport changed its name in March 2016 to honor the native football player. It is now called Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport or Madeira Airport. The airport has a terminal with an annual capacity of 3,500,000 passengers, equipped with 16 check-in counters and four boarding gates. Madeira Airport benefited from the international expertise of VINCI Airports for the design and optimization of its space. The control zones at departures and arrivals are larger, with additional screening lanes. The check-in counters and boarding gates have also been redesigned. Thus, passengers can be accommodated in a more fluid way and can enjoy a new experience in optimal reception conditions. Moreover, Madeira Airport has benefited from a large renovation plan. Completed in 2016, the modernization work by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal provides a better experience for travelers and has enabled the airport to see its traffic and turnover increase considerably. The runway, taxiways, terminal, and additional facilities were all improved and developed to meet the passengers' needs. Madeira Airport welcomes you for an unforgettable journey and endless exploration of Madeira’s natural and cultural heritage. Rent a car with Imperial at Madeira Airport and benefit from 24/7 roadside assistance, a no-excess policy, and additional services that meet your car rental needs.
Rental Car Madeira Airport
One of the most peculiarly built airports, Madeira Airport, is now a safe airport and the first thing you’ll see as soon as you approach the island. You will find amazing things to do near the Airport, such as the observation spot of Ilhéu, where you can relax and listen to the Atlantic waves crashing on the rocks. Santa Cruz seaside resort is a short drive away and features beaches, restaurants, and bars. Praia Santa Cruz and Praia das Palmeiras are connected via the sea promenade, and you can also find seawater swimming pools here. More hidden gems await you in close proximity to the airport, such as Reis Magos Beach, the Cristo Rei statue, and Ponta da Oliveira scenic spot, as well as the famous Jardins do Garajau and Levada do Caniço - Sul hiking area. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing swim or having lunch at a seafront restaurant, or you’re an adventure spirit and want to start exploring the island’s natural areas, Madeira is the place where you won’t be disappointed.