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Santos Dumont Reopens After Oil Spill Closes Runway for Most of the Day

Infraero reopened the runway only after a specialized cleanup and friction checks confirmed safe conditions.

Overview

  • Operations resumed at 17:25 after a maintenance truck leaked hydraulic oil onto the main runway around 3:00, forcing a prolonged shutdown.
  • Industry tallies reported about 161–162 flights canceled or otherwise impacted and roughly 14 diversions, with Abear estimating around 16,000 passengers affected.
  • Infraero said initial washing attempts were replaced by a biodegradable degreaser applied with firefighting high‑pressure water jets, followed by safety inspections and coefficient‑of‑friction measurements.
  • The closure disrupted the RioSão Paulo shuttle, with Congonhas canceling dozens of flights, and knock‑on effects reached Viracopos, Brasília and other airports as airlines adjusted their networks.
  • To recover schedules, the airport extended operating hours, while ANAC reminded carriers of obligations under Resolution 400 and Procon Carioca checked complaints about information and passenger assistance.