Brazil Gives Initial Green Light for International Flights at São Paulo’s Congonhas

Overview

• Brazil’s civil aviation secretariat issued a favorable technical opinion for Congonhas to reintroduce international passenger service, confirming alignment with national aviation policy.
• The opinion does not constitute final authorization, with approvals still required from the Federal Police, Receita Federal, Anvisa, Vigiagro, and a formal process with ANAC.
• Aena targets a phased rollout starting with executive aviation, with regular commercial routes expected from July 2028 alongside delivery of a new passenger terminal.
• International operations will focus on short and medium distances within South America due to the airport’s 1,940‑meter runway, with upgrades accommodating larger single‑aisle jets and expanding jet bridges from 12 to 19 and apron positions from 30 to 37.
• The modernization is part of a broader concession financed by a roughly R$5.7 billion package with major BNDES participation, of which about R$2 billion is earmarked for Congonhas works.