International Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| São Paulo/Guarulhos – Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport | São Paulo | GRU | SBGR |
| Rio de Janeiro/Galeão – Antônio Carlos Jobim International Airport | Rio de Janeiro | GIG | SBGL |
| Brasília International Airport – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek | Brasília | BSB | SBBR |
| Tancredo Neves/Confins International Airport | Belo Horizonte | CNF | SBCF |
| Viracopos International Airport | Campinas | VCP | SBKP |
| Recife/Guararapes – Gilberto Freyre International Airport | Recife | REC | SBRF |
| Salgado Filho International Airport | Porto Alegre | POA | SBPA |
| Fortaleza/Pinto Martins International Airport | Fortaleza | FOR | SBFZ |
| Salvador-Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport | Salvador | SSA | SBSV |
| Curitiba/Afonso Pena International Airport | Curitiba | CWB | SBCT |
| Manaus/Eduardo Gomes International Airport | Manaus | MAO | SBEG |
| Belém/Val-de-Cans – Júlio Cezar Ribeiro International Airport | Belém | BEL | SBBE |
| Natal/Governador Aluízio Alves International Airport | Natal | NAT | SBSG |
| Florianópolis – Hercílio Luz International Airport | Florianópolis | FLN | SBFL |
| Cuiabá/Marechal Rondon International Airport | Cuiabá | CGB | SBCY |
| Maceió/Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport | Maceió | MCZ | SBMO |
| João Pessoa – Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport | João Pessoa | JPA | SBJP |
| São Luís/Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport | São Luís | SLZ | SBSL |
| Aracaju/Santa Maria International Airport | Aracaju | AJU | SBAR |
Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Congonhas Airport | São Paulo | CGH | SBSP |
| Santos Dumont Airport | Rio de Janeiro | SDU | SBRJ |
| Pampulha Airport | Belo Horizonte | PLU | SBBH |
| Jacarepaguá – Roberto Marinho Airport | Rio de Janeiro | RIO | SBJR |
| Campo de Marte Airport | São Paulo | MAE | SBMT |
| Uberlândia – Ten. Cel. Av. César Bombonato Airport | Uberlândia | UDI | SBUL |
| Vitória – Eurico de Aguiar Salles Airport | Vitória | VIX | SBVT |
| Londrina – Governador José Richa Airport | Londrina | LDB | SBLO |
| Maringá – Sílvio Name Junior Regional Airport | Maringá | MGF | SBMG |
| São José dos Campos – Professor Urbano Ernesto Stumpf Airport | São José dos Campos | SJK | SBSJ |
| Juiz de Fora – Francisco Álvares de Assis Airport | Juiz de Fora | JDF | SBJF |
| Presidente Prudente Airport | Presidente Prudente | PPB | SBDN |
Notes:
- Major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have airports serving both international and domestic flights (e.g., GRU and CGH in São Paulo, GIG and SDU in Rio).
- Brazil has an extensive domestic airport network connecting regional areas to major cities.
- Some domestic airports also handle international charter or private flights.
Brazil Airports
Brazil boasts a vast network of airports across its diverse landscape. As South America’s largest country, air travel plays a vital role in connecting its many regions and cities. From bustling international hubs to small regional airfields, Brazilian airports serve millions of passengers each year.
Brazil has 493 public and 4,789 private certified aerodromes, along with 511 helidecks and helipads open to the public. This extensive aviation infrastructure caters to both domestic and international travellers. Major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília host some of the country’s busiest airports, welcoming visitors from around the globe.
For those planning a trip to Brazil, understanding the country’s airport system is key. From navigating customs at international gateways to hopping on domestic flights to explore the Amazon rainforest or pristine beaches, Brazil’s airports serve as gateways to unforgettable experiences. Let’s take a closer look at the main airports and what travellers can expect when flying in this vibrant South American nation.
Major Gateways and Infrastructure
Brazil’s airports serve as crucial gateways for domestic and international travel. The country’s busiest hubs offer modern facilities and a range of services to accommodate millions of passengers annually.
Busiest Airports in Brazil
São Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) tops the list as Brazil’s busiest airport. It handles over 40 million passengers yearly and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão International Airport is another key gateway, welcoming nearly 9 million travellers annually. It has a rich history, once hosting Concorde flights.
Brasília International Airport, located in the capital city, is a vital connection point for domestic travel. It links various regions of this vast country.
Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre rounds out the top tier, serving Brazil’s southern region.
Top Facilities and Services
Brazilian airports offer a range of amenities to enhance the travel experience. Many feature:
- Duty-free shops
- Currency exchange kiosks
- Car hire services
- Lounges for premium passengers
Guarulhos Airport boasts extensive shopping and dining options. It has invested in modern check-in facilities to speed up passenger processing.
Galeão Airport provides free Wi-Fi and has focused on improving its accessibility features. It offers special assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility.
Brasília’s airport is known for its efficient layout and clear signage, making navigation easier for travellers.
Airlines and Connectivity
Brazil’s airports offer a wide range of airline options and transportation choices. Travellers can find both domestic and international flights, as well as various ways to reach the airports.
National and International Carriers
Brazil’s busiest airports serve as hubs for major airlines. Azul Brazilian Airlines, LATAM Brasil, and Gol Linhas Aéreas are the country’s main domestic carriers. These airlines connect cities across Brazil, making travel within the country convenient.
For international travel, São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport stands out. It offers direct flights to over 112 destinations worldwide, including major cities in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
Airlines like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines also operate flights to Brazil. These carriers provide links to key global destinations, enhancing Brazil’s connectivity with the rest of the world.
Airport Access and Ground Transportation
Getting to and from Brazil’s airports is typically straightforward. Most airports offer multiple transportation options to suit different needs and budgets.
São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport, for example, is located about 25 kilometres from downtown São Paulo. Travellers can choose from taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transport to reach the city centre.
Many airports also provide car rental services. This option is particularly useful for tourists planning to explore beyond the main cities. However, it’s worth noting that navigating Brazilian roads can be challenging for those unfamiliar with local driving customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brazilian airports serve millions of travellers each year. Entry procedures, transport options, and flight preparation are key concerns for visitors.
What are the main international gateways for air travel into Brazil?
São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport is Brazil’s busiest airport. It handles the most international traffic.
Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão International Airport is another major gateway. It welcomes many overseas flights.
How early should one arrive at Brazilian airports for international flights?
For international flights, arrive at least three hours before departure. This allows time for check-in, security, and any unexpected delays.
Peak travel times may require even earlier arrival. It’s wise to check with your airline for specific recommendations.
How does one navigate through customs and immigration at Brazilian airports?
Upon arrival, follow signs to immigration. Present your passport and any required visa.
After passport control, collect your luggage and proceed through customs. Declare any items as needed.
Are there any specific visa requirements for entry into Brazil via its airports?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries’ citizens need a visa to enter Brazil.
Some visitors may be eligible for visa-free entry. Check with the Brazilian embassy in your country for current rules.
What are the transport options available from major Brazilian airports to city centres?
Taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services are common at Brazilian airports. Many cities offer dedicated airport bus lines.
Some airports have rail links. São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport connects to the city via train service.
Can you provide information on airport transfer services at major airports in Brazil?
Many hotels offer shuttle services from airports. Book these in advance for convenience.
Private transfer companies operate at major airports. They provide door-to-door service for those who prefer it.
