Funchal airport is known by several names- Funchal, Madeira Airport and also formerly Santa Catarina Airport. Opened in 1964, the airport is the main landing and departure point for traffic on the island of Madeira and the city of Santa Cruz. The airport developed a reputation for its very short runway that had many a visitor white knuckled on landing and take off, but thankfully now the runway has been extended giving a much more pleasant experience! Madeira is a very popular European destination with its beautiful beaches, friendly locals and warm climate so it now caters for many airlines with visitors from around Europe wanting to getaway to the island life for a break.
With many airline carriers operating to this airport and so many tourists visiting, the airport can get busy. Most people on arriving decide to hire a car for the duration of their visit to the island and there are car hire companies based in Funchal Airport. Even with these companies available it is always a good idea to book your car hire in advance so it is ready for you to pick up when your plane lands. Most people find that booking online is the easiest way to find both the best deal and the ideal car for their stay on the island and with the Internet now being so accessible it really is the easiest option. Once you have found the best deal and car, you can relax and know that when you arrive you can head straight out into discovering the island.