Brazil is the largest country in South America and has become a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers. With an extensive network of international airports and domestic airports, navigating through the country is easy. In this guide, we will take a closer look at Brazil’s major international airports, which airlines fly into them, and how to get to your final destination.
Overview of the international air travel industry in Brazil
The air travel industry in Brazil is booming, with 34 million passengers flying through the São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport in 2022. This increase in air traffic can be attributed to increasing economic growth in the region as well as increased tourism and business activities. The majority of international flights arrive into either São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport (GIG), or Brasília International Airport (BSB). These three airports provide the main international access points into Brazil.
Top Major International Airports in Brazil
Guarulhos International Airport – São Paulo
Guarulhos International Airport is Brazil’s largest airport and serves as a major hub for international connecting flights. More than 40 airlines operate out of this airport, including major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The airport is located around 25 kilometers from downtown São Paulo, and travelers have a variety of transportation options, including taxis, buses, and Uber.
Galeão International Airport – Rio de Janeiro
Galeão International Airport is Rio de Janeiro’s main airport and serves as a gateway to destinations across Brazil. Currently, more than 30 airlines operate out of this airport, including Avianca, Emirates, and KLM. The airport is located around 20 kilometers from downtown Rio de Janeiro, and travelers can take a taxi, bus, or Uber to get to their final destination.
Brasília International Airport – Brasília
Brasília International Airport serves as Brazil’s third-busiest airport and is a hub for Avianca Brasil and LATAM Brasil airlines. More than 20 airlines operate out of this airport, including Air France, Gol Airlines, and Lufthansa. The airport is located around 10 kilometers from downtown Brasília, and taxis and buses are readily available for travelers.
Confins International Airport – Belo Horizonte
Confins International Airport is the main airport serving Belo Horizonte, and offers flights to destinations throughout Brazil as well as international flights to North America and Europe. Currently, more than 20 airlines operate out of this airport, including Azul, British Airways, and TAP Portugal. The airport is located around 40 kilometers from downtown Belo Horizonte, and travelers can take a taxi, bus, or Uber to get to their final destination.
Recife/Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport – Recife
Recife’s international airport is located on the east coast of Brazil and provides access to a wide range of destinations. Currently, more than 20 airlines operate out of this airport, including Air Europa, Copa Airlines, and TAP Portugal. The airport is located around 12 kilometers from downtown Recife, and taxis, buses, and Uber are readily available for travelers.
Viracopos International Airport – Campinas
Viracopos International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Brazil, serving as a hub for Azul Brazilian Airlines and LATAM Brasil airlines. More than 25 airlines operate out of this airport, including American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Royal Air Maroc. The airport is located around 30 kilometers from downtown Campinas and taxis and buses are readily available for travelers. Additionally, the airport offers a wide range of amenities and services such as duty-free shops, restaurants, ATMs, and currency exchange counters.
Santos Dumont Airport – Rio de Janeiro
Santos Dumont Airport is the primary airport serving Rio de Janeiro, with flights to destinations throughout Brazil and a few international locations. Currently, more than 15 airlines operate out of this airport, including Air Canada, KLM, and Gol Airlines. The airport is located in downtown Rio de Janeiro and travelers can easily take a taxi or Uber to their final destination.
Salgado Filho International Airport – Salvador
Salgado Filho International Airport is the primary airport serving Salvador, with flights to destinations throughout Brazil and a few international cities. Currently, more than 20 airlines operate out of this airport, including Air France, Emirates Airlines, and KLM. The airport is located around 10 kilometers from downtown Salvador and travelers can take a taxi or bus for their final destination.
Salvador International Airport – Salvador
Salvador International Airport is the second largest airport serving Salvador, with flights to destinations throughout Brazil and a few international cities. Currently, more than 10 airlines operate out of this airport, including Air Canada, Gol Airlines and Azul Airlines. The airport is located around 12 kilometers from downtown Salvador and travelers can take a taxi or bus for their final destination.
Fortaleza International Airport – Fortaleza
Fortaleza International Airport is the primary airport serving Fortaleza, with flights to destinations throughout Brazil and a few international cities. Currently, more than 15 airlines operate out of this airport, including Air France, Emirates Airlines, KLM and Lufthansa. The airport is located around 10 kilometers from downtown Fortaleza.
Belo Horizonte International Airport – Belo Horizonte
The Belo Horizonte International Airport is the main airport serving the city of Belo Horizonte. Several airlines operate out of this airport, including Avianca, Gol Airlines, and LATAM Brasil. The airport is located around 25 kilometers from downtown Belo Horizonte, and taxis and buses are readily available for travelers. Additionally, the airport offers a wide range of amenities and services such as duty-free shops, restaurants, ATMs, and currency exchange counters.
Afonso Pena International Airport – Curitiba
The Afonso Pena International Airport is the main airport serving Curitiba and surroundings. Several airlines operate out of this airport, including Azul Airlines, Gol Airlines and LATAM Brasil. The airport is located around 25 kilometers from downtown Curitiba, where travelers can take a taxi or bus for their final destination.
Tips for Traveling to Brazilian Airports
Benefits and amenities offered to travelers at Brazilian airports
Travelers at Brazilian airports can expect to find a variety of amenities and services. These include duty-free shops, restaurants, ATMs, currency exchange counters and more. Additionally, most Brazilian airports offer Wi-Fi service for travelers with internet access.
The majority of Brazilian airports also offer additional services such as car rental companies, hotel reservation desks, and tourist information booths. Many airports have dedicated customer service agents that can help travelers with any queries they may have.
Brazilian airports also offer a variety of other services such as baggage storage, car parking, and flight status updates. Furthermore, some airports provide special facilities for disabled passengers or those traveling with small children.
Whether you are flying in or out of Brazil, you can be sure that you will find plenty of services and amenities designed to make your journey hassle-free. From duty-free shops to car rental companies, there is something for everyone at Brazilian airports.
Tips for navigating Brazilian airports efficiently
With so many services and amenities available, navigating Brazilian airports can be a bit overwhelming. To make your journey through the airport hassle-free, here are some helpful tips:
• Plan ahead and arrive at the airport early – this will allow you time to navigate the terminals and check-in for your flight without any last minute stress or delays.
• Take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi – this can help you save money on roaming charges and also allow you to stay connected with loved ones back home.
• Be mindful of baggage limits – most Brazilian airports have strict policies when it comes to carry on luggage, so be sure to check these before packing your bags.
• Learn the airport’s layout in advance – do some research before arriving at the airport to familiarize yourself with the terminals, gates, and security checkpoints. This will help you navigate the airport more quickly and efficiently.
Following these tips can go a long way towards making your journey through Brazilian airports as stress-free as possible. With a bit of preparation and planning, you can ensure that your flight will be a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Happy travels!
Tourist Information Centers at Brazilian Airports
For travelers who are unfamiliar with Brazil, the airports provide an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the local culture. Most major airports have dedicated Tourist Information Centers where visitors from abroad can learn more about the country and ask for helpful advice. The staff at these centers are very knowledgeable and can provide a great deal of insight into the attractions, culture, and history of Brazil.
The Tourist Information Centers also offer tips on local customs and etiquette as well as other useful information such as currency exchange rates, transportation options, and nearby restaurants. These centers are a great way to make the most of your time in Brazil by getting all the necessary information about your destination and making sure you stay safe during your travels.
Information on additional transportation available after landing at major airports
Once you’ve landed at a major airport in Brazil, you may want to explore the nearby area before heading off to your destination. Fortunately, many airports offer additional transportation services such as shuttle buses and rental cars that make it easy to get around.
Shuttle buses are a reliable and affordable way to travel between the airport and downtown areas or other nearby attractions. These services usually run regular routes and offer convenient pickups and drop-offs right at the terminal. Rental cars are also a great option if you want to explore more of Brazil or make your own way from the airport to your destination. Most major airports have car rental agencies that can provide you with a vehicle for the duration of your stay in Brazil.
By taking advantage of these transportation services, you can make sure your travels in Brazil are comfortable and safe. Whether you’re planning a short stay or an extended vacation, having the flexibility of multiple transport options can help make your experience even more enjoyable.
