Author: Lisbeth Juliao

Aracaju International Airport, also known as Santa Maria Airport, serves as the main airport for Aracaju, Brazil.

While the airport had been operational since the early 1950s, its official opening ceremony took place on January 19, 1958. In 1961, the first renovation of the airport complex commenced, including the extension of the runway and the enlargement of the passenger terminal. These improvements were essential in accommodating the growing number of passengers and ensuring smoother operations.

In 1975, Infraero, the Brazilian government agency responsible for airport administration, assumed the role of the airport’s administrator. Under Infraero’s management, further expansions were undertaken to enhance Aracaju International Airport‘s facilities. The runway underwent extension, a project that was completed in 1993. Additionally, a significant enlargement of the passenger terminal was carried out, ultimately completed in 1998. These developments aimed to cater to the increasing demands of air travel and provide passengers with improved services and amenities.

In 2012, Aracaju International Airport embarked on its most recent extension project, involving the construction of a completely new passenger terminal. This expansion initiative aimed to double the airport’s capacity, accommodating the anticipated growth in passenger traffic and ensuring a seamless travel experience for travelers. The construction of the new terminal signaled a commitment to modernizing the airport’s infrastructure and meeting the evolving needs of passengers.

On March 15, 2019, a notable change occurred in the management of Aracaju International Airport. AENA, a prominent Spanish company specializing in airport operations, secured a 30-year concession to operate the airport. With AENA taking charge of operations, further advancements and improvements are expected for Aracaju International Airport. The collaboration between AENA and local authorities aims to support the region’s economic growth, promote tourism, and ensure that the airport remains a key transportation hub in northeastern Brazil.

Teresina Airport, also known as Senador Petrônio Portella Airport, serves as the primary airport for Teresina, Brazil.

Since December 22, 1999, the airport has been named after Petrônio Portella Nunes (1925-1980), a significant figure in Teresina’s history. Portella Nunes, a former Mayor of Teresina, Governor of Piauí, Senator, and Minister of Justice, played a pivotal role in preparing for the end of the Brazilian military government. The airport’s naming honors his contributions and legacy in the region.

The commissioning of Teresina Airport took place on September 30, 1967, marking the commencement of its operations. Subsequently, on December 23, 1974, Infraero, the Brazilian government agency responsible for airport administration, began operating the airport.

The airport has undergone significant renovations and improvements over the years. Between 1998 and 2001, major renovations were undertaken, encompassing various aspects of the airport’s infrastructure. These renovations included the refurbishment of the passenger terminal, the expansion and enhancement of the runway, and the construction of a new control tower. These upgrades aimed to enhance the airport’s operational efficiency, improve passenger experience, and meet the growing demands of air travel.

Infraero had previously operated Teresina Airport. However, on April 7, 2021, a significant change occurred in the airport’s management as CCR, a renowned infrastructure company, won a 30-year concession to operate and develop the airport. This transition to CCR’s management signifies a new chapter for Teresina Airport, with the expectation of further enhancements, improved services, and infrastructure development.

Teresina Airport serves as a vital transportation hub, connecting Teresina and the surrounding regions, supporting travel, trade, and tourism. The airport’s commitment to providing quality services and its ongoing development efforts contribute to the region’s prosperity and connectivity.

Uberlândia Airport, officially known as Tenente Coronel Aviador César Bombonato Airport, serves as the primary airport for Uberlândia, Brazil.

Since 2001, the airport has been named in honor of César Bombonato (1955–1998), a pilot in the Brazilian Air Force who was born in Uberlândia. Bombonato tragically lost his life in an aviation accident. The airport’s renaming pays tribute to his contribution to aviation and his connection to the local community.

The first flight to the site of the airport took place on May 10, 1935. However, it was officially designated as an airport on July 21, 1953, marking the formal recognition of the area’s significance as an aviation hub.

In 1980, the administration of Uberlândia Airport was assumed by Infraero, the Brazilian government agency responsible for airport operations and development. Then, on June 8, 2001, the airport’s name was officially changed to include the tribute to aviator César Bombonato, further solidifying his legacy within the local aviation community.

Over the years, significant improvements have been made to the airport’s infrastructure. In 2005, the terminal underwent extensive renovations and expansions, providing passengers with modern facilities and enhancing their travel experience. Additionally, in 2007, the runway was extended, allowing for the accommodation of larger aircraft and improving operational efficiency.

Previously operated by Infraero, a notable transition occurred on August 18, 2022. AENA, a renowned Spanish company specializing in airport operations, won a 30-year concession to operate Uberlândia Airport. This change in management represents a new phase for the airport, bringing with it the anticipation of enhanced services, infrastructure development, and increased operational efficiency.

Uberlândia Airport, Tenente Coronel Aviador César Bombonato Airport, stands as a gateway to Uberlândia and the surrounding regions, fostering connectivity and contributing to the region’s prosperity. The airport’s commitment to development and service excellence underscores its importance in facilitating travel and promoting economic development in the area.

Porto Velho International Airport, officially known as Governador Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira International Airport and colloquially referred to as Belmonte Airport due to its location in the Belmonte neighborhood, serves as the primary airport for Porto Velho, Brazil.

Since July 3, 2002, the airport has been named after Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira (1922-1987), the first Governor of the State of Rondônia. This naming honors his contributions to the region and recognizes his historical significance.

A notable aspect of Porto Velho International Airport is that some of its facilities are shared with the Porto Velho Air Force Base of the Brazilian Air Force. This collaboration allows for synergies between military and civilian operations, ensuring efficient use of resources and enhancing overall aviation capabilities in the region.

The airport was opened on April 16, 1969, serving as a replacement for Caiari Airport, which was subsequently closed. Since 1979, Infraero, the Brazilian government agency responsible for airport administration, has operated Porto Velho International Airport. Infraero’s management has played a crucial role in the airport’s development and improvement over the years.

In 2002, Porto Velho International Airport was granted international status, further enhancing its connectivity and opening doors to international travel and trade. A significant change occurred on April 7, 2021, when Vinci SA, a renowned French company specializing in airport management and operations, won a 30-year concession to operate Porto Velho International Airport. This transition to Vinci SA’s management signifies a new phase for the airport, bringing with it expectations of enhanced services, improved infrastructure, and increased operational efficiency.

Porto Velho International Airport serves as a vital transportation hub, connecting Porto Velho to domestic and international destinations. Passengers can expect modern facilities, comfortable waiting areas, and efficient services as they travel through the airport.

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport, also referred to as Governor André Franco Montoro International Airport, is the primary international airport serving São Paulo. It is commonly known locally as Cumbica Airport or Guarulhos Airport, named after the district and municipality where it is located, respectively.

Originally, the plans for São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport included three runways and four passenger terminals. However, the construction began with two runways and two terminals on August 11, 1980, as the initial phase. The airport was officially inaugurated on January 20, 1985 and quickly became São Paulo’s main airport, surpassing São Paulo–Congonhas Airport.

Since November 2001, the airport has been named after André Franco Montoro, the former Governor of São Paulo state, and in 2012, the airport underwent a rebranding and became known as GRU Airport.

In 2012, São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport was the busiest airport in Brazil in terms of passenger traffic, aircraft operations, and cargo handled. It ranked as the second busiest airport in Latin America for passenger traffic, trailing behind Mexico City International Airport. Guarulhos Airport, along with São Paulo-Congonhas, Brasília, Belo Horizonte-Pampulha, and Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont, operates with slot restrictions, allowing a maximum of 45 operations per hour.

Since 2012, a consortium consisting of Invepar S/A, Airports Company South Africa, and Infraero has been operating São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport. Additionally, some of the airport’s facilities are shared with the São Paulo Air Force Base of the Brazilian Air Force.

Sao Paulo Congonhas Airport, also known as Deputado Freitas Nobre Airport, is one of the four commercial airports serving São Paulo, Brazil. The airport gets its name from the neighborhood where it is situated, called Vila Congonhas, which belongs to the descendants of the Viscount of Congonhas do Campo, the first president of the Province of São Paulo after Brazil’s independence in 1822. However, since June 19, 2017, it has officially been named after Deputy Freitas Nobre, although the name Congonhas is still predominantly used. The airport is owned by the City of São Paulo.

Sao Paulo Congonhas Airport operates with slot restrictions, allowing a maximum of 30 operations per hour, making it one of the five airports in Brazil with such limitations. In 2019, it ranked as the second busiest airport in Brazil in terms of passenger traffic, following São Paulo–Guarulhos.

The central hall of the passenger terminal at Sao Paulo Congonhas Airport is considered a remarkable example of modern architecture in São Paulo. However, since 2003, efforts have been made to modernize and expand the terminal while preserving the appearance of the older, historic section. Currently, the main terminal spans an area of 51,535 square meters (554,718 square feet).

In 2008, Congonhas Airport lost its international status. On August 31, 2009, Infraero announced an investment plan to upgrade Sao Paulo Congonhas Airport, with a focus on preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, which took place in Brazil, with São Paulo being one of the host cities. The investment included the construction of a new control tower, renovation of the apron, completion of the renovation of the south portion of the passenger terminal, and refurbishment of the north portion of the passenger terminal.

Previously operated by Infraero, on August 18, 2022, the consortium AENA won a 30-year concession to operate the airport.

Brasília International Airport, also known as President Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport, serves as the sole international airport for Brasília. The airport was named after Juscelino Kubitschek (1902–1976), the 21st President of Brazil. It is situated in the administrative region of Lago Sul, in the Federal District, and is operated by Inframerica. Some of its facilities are shared with the Brasília Air Force Base of the Brazilian Air Force.

The construction of Brasília International Airport began on November 6, 1956, and lasted for over six months. The process involved clearing an area of 1,334 million square meters (14,360×106 sq ft), conducting earthwork and base stabilization, covering 73,500 square meters (791,000 sq ft), as well as topographical services, positioning, and leveling. Initially, the runway was designed to be 3,300 meters (10,800 ft) long, but it initially measured only 324 meters (1,063 ft) with a width of 45 meters (148 ft).

The passenger terminal was constructed using wood. On April 2, 1957, the first landing of the presidential aircraft took place at the site, and the official inauguration occurred on May 3, 1957. In the same year, the Brasília Air Force Base was also commissioned at the same location.

In 1990, Brasília International Airport underwent its first significant renovation, gradually taking on its current form with a central body and two initially planned satellites. However, only one satellite, the west wing, was completed. Since 1990, the airport has undergone renovations and expansions, following the architectural concept of architect Sérgio Roberto Parada. The initial phase included the construction of an access viaduct to the passenger terminal and a metal cover, both inaugurated in 1992.

The first circular satellite, resembling a UFO disc, was also inaugurated in 1994. In the second phase, the main body of the passenger terminal was revamped to include a shopping mall, while the satellite received nine jetways. A second runway was opened in 2005. The former terminal for general aviation, originally built in 1988, was subsequently transformed into Passenger Terminal 2, opening for traffic on August 2, 2010.

Planned investments for the international area of Brasília International Airport, like a new parking construction, four new hotels in the vicinity, a new business area, and other facilities, such as a Shopping Mall, were envisioned for 2016. However, none of these plans were realized until mid-2022.

Rio Galeão International Airport – Antonio Carlos Jobim, originally known as Galeão International Airport, is the primary airport serving the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As of 2019, it ranked as the country’s fourth-busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic. The airport derives its name from the Galeão neighborhood, and it holds historical significance as Praia do Galeão (Galleon Beach) lies in front of the original passenger terminal, where the galleon Padre Eterno was constructed in 1663. Remarkably, Rio Galeão International Airport boasts the largest airport site area in Brazil.

Since August 12, 2014, the operations of Rio Galeão International Airport have been under the management of the concessionary Rio Galeão. This consortium is composed of the Brazilian investor Odebrecht, Changi Airport Group, and the government-owned company Infraero, the previous operator, which holds a minority stake. The airport has been marketed under the brand name RIOgaleão by the new concessionary.

Certain facilities at Rio Galeão International Airport are shared with the Galeão Air Force Base, which belongs to the Brazilian Air Force. This integration allows for efficient coordination between civilian and military aviation operations.

Rio Galeão International Airport handles both cargo and passenger traffic, serving as a crucial hub for both domestic and international flights. Its strategic location and modern infrastructure enable seamless operations for a wide range of aircraft and cargo needs. The airport plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade, tourism, and business activities, supporting Rio de Janeiro’s status as a global city.

With its extensive facilities, efficient services, and notable historical connections, Rio Galeão International Airport continues to be a vital gateway for travelers and cargo transportation, contributing to the growth and connectivity of the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area and the wider region.

Belo Horizonte International Airport, formerly called Confins International Airport, is the primary international airport serving Belo Horizonte. Since 2 September 1986, the airport is named after Tancredo de Almeida Neves (1910–1985), President-elect of Brazil. It is located in the municipality of Confins, in the state of Minas Gerais and it is operated by BH Airport S.A.

Belo Horizonte International Airport was built by Infraero and inaugurated in 1984, to lessen the congestion at Pampulha Airport. After its inauguration, just a small fraction of the capacity of Confins was used. Presently its maximum operational capacity is 22 million passengers per year.

The construction of Terminal 2 – an extension of Terminal 1 – started in September 2015 and finished in December 2016. It increased Belo Horizonte nternational Airport capacity to 22 million passengers per year. On 8 December 2016 Terminal 2 was opened for domestic operations and in January 2017 international Terminal 3 was closed.

As part of the concession, BH Airport committed itself to construct a new parallel runway with a length of 2,500 metres (8,200 ft), connecting taxiways and service roads as well as a multi-storey car park until 2020.

Viracopos International Airport, sometimes known as São Paulo/Campinas or São Paulo/Viracopos, is an international airport that serves the municipality of Campinas in the state of São Paulo. On January 6, 1987, the airport’s name was officially standardized to its current form. It derives its name from the neighborhood where it is situated.

The origins of Viracopos International Airport can be traced back to a simple airfield near Campinas that was constructed during the 1932 Constitutionalist Revolution in São Paulo. In 1946, shortly after World War II, the first runway was paved. Over the following years, the airport began to take shape, with the construction of the first hangar in 1948 and the terminal in 1950. During the 1950s, it started being utilized by cargo companies. In 1960, it underwent improvements, including the construction of a 3,240-meter runway capable of accommodating the first generation of intercontinental jet planes, such as the Boeing 707. The airport was officially inaugurated on October 19, 1960, which coincided with its first international flight.

Moreover, Viracopos International Airport has served (and continues to serve) as an alternate airport for Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport and São Paulo airports, primarily due to its infrequent closures caused by adverse weather conditions (averaging only five days per year).

As the second busiest cargo airport in Brazil, Viracopos International Airport features 77,000 square meters (646,000 square feet) of cargo terminals, 1,700 square meters (18,300 square feet) dedicated to animal cargo, and 1,480 cubic meters (52,200 square feet) of refrigerated space. Functioning as a prominent import/export hub, Viracopos benefits from “express lanes” for courier traffic, which are notably swift and relatively free of bureaucracy compared to Brazilian standards.

Santos Dumont Airport, named after the renowned Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos Dumont (1873–1932), serves as the second major airport for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The airport is operated by Infraero.

Santos Dumont Airport operates with slot restrictions, allowing a maximum of 19 operations per hour. This restriction places it among the five airports in Brazil subject to such limitations.

Originally known as Calabouço Airport, the airport’s history dates back to the early 1930s. In 1934, to accommodate the increasing number of land operations, land was reclaimed from the sea to create the airport’s initial runway, measuring 1,300 feet (400 m) in length. The runway was extended to 2,300 feet (700 m) in 1936, and on November 30th of the same year, it received its first commercial flight. The airport complex was officially inaugurated on October 16, 1936, and was subsequently named Santos Dumont Airport.

As international operations gradually shifted to Galeão Airport, which opened in 1952, Rio de Janeiro–Santos Dumont lost its status as an international hub. The airport now primarily handles domestic air traffic for short-to-medium haul flights within Rio de Janeiro, as well as general aviation and military operations.

While Santos Dumont Airport is conveniently located near the city center, its location poses challenges due to the presence of Sugarloaf Mountain along the direct approach path. As a result, aircraft approaching the airport must navigate the mountainous terrain beyond the two runways in either of two ways: by flying over the entrance of the bay and then swiftly maneuvering behind Sugarloaf Mountain onto the runway’s glide path, or by flying over central Rio and negotiating the mountainous terrain surrounding Sugarloaf Mountain and the central-western region of Rio.

Recife International Airport, also known as Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport, serves as the main airport for the city of Recife, Brazil. It is operated by AENA and shares some facilities with the Recife Air Force Base, which belongs to the Brazilian Air Force.

Originally named Ibura Airport, the airport was later renamed Guararapes Airport in 1948. Its origins can be traced back to World War II when it became strategically significant as a technical and refueling stopover on the route between South America and Europe.

In 2004, Recife International Airport underwent a significant transformation with the construction of a brand-new passenger terminal. This expansion included the addition of a modern shopping mall, contributing to an increase in both air traffic and revenue. Furthermore, a new concourse was opened, effectively expanding the airport’s capacity from 1.5 million passengers per year to a remarkable 9 million passengers per year. Notably, the airport boasts the longest runway in Northeastern Brazil, measuring 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) in length.

Recognizing the importance of Recife as one of the host cities for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Infraero, the airport infrastructure authority, announced an investment plan on August 2009 to upgrade Recife International Airport. The primary focus was to enhance the airport’s facilities and services in preparation for the international tournament. The investment was primarily utilized for the completion of the passenger terminal renovation and the installation of eight additional jetways. This comprehensive work was successfully concluded mid 2011, positioning the airport as fully prepared to accommodate the influx of visitors and teams during the FIFA Cup.

The continuous development and modernization of Recife International Airport have significantly elevated its status as a key transportation hub in the region. With improved infrastructure, enhanced passenger services, and its strategic location, the airport continues to play a vital role in facilitating both domestic and international travel to and from Recife, contributing to the city’s connectivity and economic growth.

Salgado Filho Porto Alegre International Airport, originally known as São João Federal Airport, serves as the main airport for Porto Alegre and the Greater Porto Alegre region in Brazil. It was officially named on October 12, 1951, in honor of Joaquim Pedro Salgado Filho, a prominent Senator and the first Minister of the Brazilian Air Force, who lived from 1888 to 1950. The airport’s operations are currently managed by Fraport Brasil.

The airport’s history dates back to May 31, 1923, when the first flights touched down at its location. However, it was not until 1940 that the first passenger terminal was constructed and put into operation. Subsequent improvements were made in 1953 when the runways were paved and the new Passenger Terminal 2 was inaugurated. Recognizing the need for further development, significant renovations and expansions were carried out between 1969 and 1971. Despite these efforts, the airport struggled to handle the increasing air traffic, necessitating the construction of a completely new and modern facility.

In January 2018, the operations and administration of Porto Alegre International Airport were taken over by Fraport, a private airport operator based in Germany. Since assuming the airport concession, Fraport embarked on an ambitious expansion project, which includes extending the runway from its current length of 2,280 meters (7,481 feet) to an impressive 3,200 meters (10,499 feet). This expansion enables the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and facilitates the landing of flights from North America and Europe. The new runway commenced operations in May 2022, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s development.

With the involvement of Fraport, Porto Alegre International Airport has undergone substantial improvements and upgrades, enhancing its capacity, efficiency, and international connectivity. The extended runway and improved infrastructure position the airport to cater to the growing demands of air travel, facilitating increased passenger traffic and opening doors to more direct flights from various destinations. As a result, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting Porto Alegre and the surrounding region with global destinations, fostering economic growth and promoting tourism in the area.

Salvador Bahia International Airport, officially known as Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport but commonly referred to as Salvador Bahia Airport, serves as the primary airport for Salvador, Brazil. Since June 16, 1998, the airport has been named after Luís Eduardo Maron Magalhães, a highly influential politician from the state of Bahia, as mandated by Federal Law. The airport’s operations are managed by Vinci SA, and certain facilities are shared with the Salvador Air Force Base, which belongs to the Brazilian Air Force.

Salvador Bahia International Airport’s history dates back to its establishment in 1925. In 1941, Panair do Brasil, with the support of the American and Brazilian governments during World War II efforts, undertook a comprehensive reconstruction of the facility, greatly improving its infrastructure.

On December 20, 1955, the airport was renamed Dois de Julho International Airport, commemorating Bahia Independence Day. To this day, the local population of Salvador da Bahia commonly refers to the airport by this name. However, on June 16, 1998, the airport was once again renamed to honor Luís Eduardo Maron Magalhães, in recognition of his significant contributions as a political figure in the state of Bahia. Since 2017, the airport has been marketed and known by the trade name Salvador Bahia Airport.

A new passenger terminal was inaugurated in 1998, replacing the outdated original terminal. Subsequent upgrades were carried out, and by the end of the year 2000, the new terminal was completed. The main terminal, which features a shopping mall, covers an area of 69,400 square meters (747,539 square feet), boasts 11 jetways, and has a capacity to handle 6,000,000 passengers per year.

The continuous development and modernization of Salvador Bahia International Airport have significantly enhanced its capabilities and services, catering to the increasing demand for air travel in Salvador and the surrounding region. With its upgraded facilities and expanding passenger capacity, the airport serves as a vital transportation hub, facilitating tourism, trade, and economic growth in the area.

Fortaleza International Airport – Pinto Martins, serves as the principal international airport for the city of Fortaleza, Brazil. The airport takes its name from Euclides Pinto Martins (1892–1924), a pioneering aviator born in Ceará. Martins played a significant role in establishing the air link between New York City and Rio de Janeiro in 1922. Fraport Brasil operates the airport, and it shares some facilities with Fortaleza Air Force Base.

The airport’s origins trace back to a runway constructed in the 1930s, initially used by the Ceará Flying School until the year 2000. During World War II, the airport served as an important allied base supporting operations in the Southern Atlantic region. On May 13, 1952, the airport underwent a name change, transitioning from Cocorote Airport to its present-day designation, Fortaleza Pinto Martins Airport.

Significant improvements and expansions have been undertaken to enhance the airport’s infrastructure. On April 27, 2018, construction commenced on a two-story terminal extension, accompanied by the expansion of the terminal and tracks. The taxi and traffic areas were remodeled, and the airport road system was redesigned, including the construction of a viaduct. On June 25, 2019, a check-in area with 60 positions was inaugurated, marking a notable milestone in the ongoing renovation project. Finally, on April 14, 2020, the comprehensive renovation was completed, further enhancing the airport’s operational capacity.

Presently, Fortaleza International Airport can accommodate up to 4 million passengers per year and offers 14 aircraft parking positions. The upgraded facilities and expanded infrastructure ensure improved services and increased efficiency for travelers. The airport serves as a vital transportation hub, connecting Fortaleza with domestic and international destinations, contributing to the region’s economic development, tourism, and connectivity.

With its rich history, modern amenities, and enhanced capabilities, Fortaleza International Airport continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating air travel and serving as a gateway to the vibrant city of Fortaleza and its surrounding regions.