Federal Funds Boost Airports in Bahia's Feira de Santana and Conde

The federal government has earmarked a substantial portion of its regional aviation budget for Bahia. The state's airports are set to receive a share of the R$ 424.2 million designated specifically for the Northeast region. This funding is drawn from a massive national portfolio of public works totaling nearly R$ 1.8 billion, scheduled for the 2026/2027 cycle.

Specifically, resources have been allocated for two distinct purposes in Bahia:

• Feira de Santana Airport: Funds will be used for the preparation of basic studies and projects.
• Conde Airport: Resources are directed toward the implementation of a new airport in the municipality.

Beyond Bahia, the broader regional package includes studies for an airport in Iguatu, Ceará, and the installation of weather stations in Patos (PB), Sobral (CE), Balsas (MA), and Gurupi (TO). Additionally, direct infrastructure improvements are planned for airports in Barra do Corda, Bacabal, and Santa Inês (MA), Picos (PI), and Ilhéus (BA).

The initiative is designed to do more than just upgrade physical structures; it aims to transform regional air travel. According to the Ministry, the primary objectives are to strengthen regional aviation, expand air connectivity, and drive economic development in the beneficiary cities.

"We are structuring a robust portfolio that prepares regional airports to grow with safety, efficiency, and a focus on city development,"

The program encompasses 34 new undertakings across 31 airports in 16 Brazilian states. A key highlight of this modernization effort is the widespread adoption of advanced technological standards. The Ministry plans to utilize the Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology in approximately 65% of the projects.

This approach aligns with the national BIM BR Strategy and Law No. 14.133, which governs new public contracts. The BIM methodology employs intelligent digital models that integrate dimensions, materials, costs, schedules, and maintenance data. By doing so, it contributes to error reduction, increased efficiency, and better decision-making throughout the entire lifecycle of the infrastructure projects.

For the cities of Feira de Santana and Conde, these investments represent a critical opportunity for growth. Feira de Santana, recognized as the second-largest city in Bahia, stands to benefit from enhanced planning that could lead to improved airport facilities and services. This development is expected to bolster its status as a key economic hub in the state's interior.

Meanwhile, the municipality of Conde, located on Bahia's northern coast, is poised for a major upgrade with the construction of a new airport. This project could significantly improve access to the region, potentially boosting tourism and local commerce. The focus on the Northeast region highlights a commitment to balancing infrastructure development across different parts of the country, moving beyond major metropolitan centers to support growth in developing areas.

With the funding structure and project scope now defined, the next phase involves the execution of these initial studies and the commencement of construction works. The adoption of the BIM methodology suggests a commitment to transparency and efficiency in the contracting and construction processes, setting a new standard for public infrastructure projects in the region.

As the 2026/2027 cycle approaches, stakeholders in Feira de Santana, Conde, and other beneficiary municipalities will be watching closely. The success of these airport projects could serve as a model for future infrastructure investments, demonstrating how targeted federal spending can catalyze regional development and improve the quality of life for millions of Brazilians.