Brazil’s tourism sector is experiencing a period of remarkable growth, driven by a number of key factors. The country’s citizens now enjoy visa-free access to 173 countries, offering a wealth of travel opportunities. This freedom of movement has fueled a surge in outbound tourism, with 6.4 million Brazilian travelers venturing abroad in 2022, generating a substantial US$12.2 billion in international tourism revenue. The United Kingdom has emerged as a particularly popular destination for Brazilian travelers, welcoming 266,661 visitors in 2022. These visitors contributed significantly to the UK economy, with a total expenditure of £311.4 million and an impressive average spend of £1,168 per person. This positive trend continued into 2023, with the Brazilian Educational & Language Travel Association (Belta) reporting a remarkable 21.7 percent business increase in the outbound travel sector. Belta’s survey revealed that 73.9 percent of respondents experienced business growth, while only 10.9 percent saw a decline compared to the previous year, highlighting the resilience and growth potential of Brazil’s travel industry. As Brazilian travelers continue to explore the world, they bring vibrant cultural exchanges and significant economic benefits to their destinations. Beyond visa-free access, Brazil’s tourism infrastructure is also undergoing significant development. The country’s airports are handling a surge in both domestic and international passengers, driven by increased travel demand and a growing economy. São Paulo/Congonhas Airport (CGH), managed by Aena, welcomed over 22 million passengers in 2023, nearly matching its pre-pandemic figures, with a passenger count just 0.5% shy of 2019 numbers. The airport recorded 231,800 movements, with 185,600 being commercial flights. The latter half of 2023 saw a notable 17% increase in passenger traffic compared to the first half, and an 8% rise compared to the second half of 2019, indicating improved flight occupancy rates projected for 2024. July was the busiest month, with 2.1 million passengers, while September 11 was the peak day, accommodating 81,000 travelers. On average, Congonhas handled over 60,000 passengers and 510 commercial flights daily in 2023. The airport serves 49 domestic destinations, with top routes including Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont (3.6 million passengers), Brasília (2.3 million), Porto Alegre (2.2 million), Belo Horizonte (1.9 million), and Salvador (1.5 million). The airlines operating at Congonhas are Gol (44.4% market share), Latam (43.6%), Azul (10.9%), Voepass (0.9%), and Azul Conecta (0.1%). Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), Brazil’s busiest airport and a major international gateway, handles the highest number of international flights and connections in the country. Rio de Janeiro/Galeão – Antônio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG) is a significant hub for both domestic and international flights, known for its modern facilities and proximity to Rio de Janeiro’s renowned tourist attractions. Brasília – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport (BSB) serves Brazil’s capital city, acting as a crucial hub for domestic flights and connecting various parts of the country. Belo Horizonte – Tancredo Neves/Confins International Airport (CNF) serves the metropolitan area of Belo Horizonte and is an essential airport for both domestic and international flights. These airports play a vital role in Brazil’s connectivity, offering essential services for travelers both within the country and internationally, facilitating tourism, business, and cultural exchange. Fueling this growth is a robust aviation sector, with several major airlines offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. LATAM Airlines Brazil, the largest airline in the country and part of the LATAM Airlines Group, boasts an extensive network of domestic and international routes. Renowned for its comprehensive service and frequent flights, LATAM connects major cities within Brazil and to destinations around the globe. GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, a prominent low-cost carrier in Brazil, is known for its wide range of affordable domestic and international flights. The airline is celebrated for its extensive domestic coverage, providing accessible and budget-friendly travel options for passengers across the country. Azul Brazilian Airlines has quickly risen to become one of Brazil’s leading airlines, recognized for its exceptional service and broad domestic network. The airline also operates several international routes and is distinguished by its modern fleet, contributing to a comfortable travel experience. Passaredo Linhas Aéreas, a regional airline, plays a vital role in connecting smaller cities to major urban centers in Brazil. Known for its reliable service, Passaredo ensures that remote areas remain accessible, thereby supporting regional connectivity and development. These airlines collectively enhance Brazil’s aviation landscape by offering essential services for both domestic and international travelers. From providing low-cost options to ensuring connectivity to remote regions, they play a pivotal role in the country’s transportation infrastructure, supporting economic growth and mobility.
Brazil’s Booming Tourism: Visa-Free Travel, Airport Growth, and Key Airlines
