São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport Overview

São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (IATA: GRU, ICAO: SBGR), officially named Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport, is the busiest airport in Brazil and one of the most important aviation hubs in South America. Located in Guarulhos, just outside São Paulo, the airport offers extensive international and domestic connectivity and serves as a major gateway for both passengers and cargo. GRU is the primary hub for LATAM Brasil and Gol Linhas Aéreas.

General Information

  • Location: Guarulhos, São Paulo
  • Country: Brazil
  • IATA Code: GRU
  • ICAO Code: SBGR
  • Elevation: 2,459 feet (750 metres)
  • Coordinates: 23°25′55″S 046°28′10″W
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • Flights: Scheduled international and domestic flights
  • Timezone: UTC−3 (Brasília Time, BRT)
  • Distance from City: Approx. 25 km northeast of downtown São Paulo
  • Website: www.gru.com.br
  • Ground Services: Complete passenger, cargo, and VIP services
  • Operator: GRU Airport (Invepar & Airports Company South Africa consortium)

Airport Details

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 09L/27R: 3,000 m (9,843 ft) – Asphalt
    • 09R/27L: 3,700 m (12,139 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strengths: Handles wide-body aircraft, including A380 and B777
  • Fire Services: ICAO Category 10
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Assistance: ILS, VOR/DME, NDB, RNAV, GPS
  • Customs: Available (24/7 international ops)
  • Aircraft Types: Accommodates all commercial aircraft up to Code F
  • Terminals: Three terminals (T1 for domestic; T2 & T3 for domestic and international)
  • Cargo: One of South America’s largest cargo terminals with bonded storage, perishables handling, and courier services
  • Fuel: JET A-1 available via hydrant and fuel truck
  • FBOs: Lider Aviação, Universal Aviation, TAM Aviação Executiva
  • Equipment: Full GSE, hangar, and MRO services available
  • Ground Services: Passenger, baggage, cargo, crew, and VIP handling

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: 24–72 hours for private and charter flights
  • Permission Required: Yes, for all non-scheduled international operations
  • Slots: Required (Level 3 coordinated airport)
  • Backup Airports:
    • CGH: Congonhas Airport (domestic only)
    • VCP: Viracopos International Airport (Campinas – full international capability)

Contact Information

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: Passport and visa required depending on nationality; Brazil participates in reciprocal visa exemption agreements
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID, valid licenses, and health certificates; visa may be waived for crew
  • Transport: Taxis, Uber, rental cars, Airport Bus Service to São Paulo, and CPTM commuter rail
  • Accommodation:
    • Onsite/Adjacent: Pullman São Paulo Guarulhos Airport, Sleep Inn Guarulhos
    • São Paulo City: Wide range of 3–5 star accommodations including Tivoli, Renaissance, and Hilton
  • Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL); most international cards accepted

Nearby Attractions

Avenida Paulista

São Paulo’s financial and cultural centre has museums, malls, restaurants, and skyscrapers.

Ibirapuera Park

A massive green space with lakes, museums, and jogging paths, comparable to New York’s Central Park.

Municipal Market of São Paulo

Famous for local cuisine, fruits, and the legendary mortadella sandwich.

Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP)

It is one of Latin America’s top art museums, with a striking modernist design and a global collection.

Historic Downtown São Paulo

Explore the São Paulo Cathedral, Pátio do Colégio, and Theatro Municipal.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: São Paulo traffic is heavy—plan ample time; metro and express buses are efficient alternatives
  • Travel: Book slots and ground handling well in advance, especially during major events or holidays
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • April–June (Autumn): Mild weather and fewer crowds
    • September–November (Spring): Pleasant climate and cultural events
  • Tips:
    • Local regulations require permits and customs clearance for most GA flights.
    • English may be limited, so consider coordinating with the bilingual ground handler.s
    • Exchange some currency on arrival for taxis and small purchases
    • Coordinate with your FBO for expedited crew and VIP clearance

São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport is Brazil’s busiest and most internationally connected airport, designed for efficiency, scale, and comfort. Consult your preferred FBO or the official airport authority for operational coordination or real-time flight support.