Brazil breaks historic record for international flights in early 2025

Number of takeoffs between January and May even exceeds pre-pandemic levels

Brazilian aviation started 2025 at a fast pace. Between January and May, the country recorded more than 66,000 international departures, a growth of 15.6% compared to the same period in 2024, according to data from the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). The number not only represents the best performance in the historical series but also exceeds the rates prior to the pandemic. In 2019, for example, 59,884 departures abroad were recorded.

The positive movement extends to domestic flights. During the current peak winter season, airlines are expected to operate more than 68,300 domestic flights, totaling around 11 million seats, an increase of 6% compared to July last year. The airports of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasília are leading this expansion, with increases in supply of 10%, 5% and 6.4%, respectively.

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In addition to the capitals of the Southeast, regional routes are also gaining strength, especially in the connection between Brasília and cities in the Northeast. Flights to Pernambuco grew by 44%, followed by Bahia (+17%), Paraíba (+20%) and Rio Grande do Norte (+10%).

“We achieved the highest volume of passenger movement in history in the first five months of the year, and July will be the best month for Brazilian aviation. These results mean more tourism, more jobs and more income in all regions,” said the Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho.

Companies expand offer

To meet the growing demand, airlines are stepping up their operations. Gol Linhas Aéreas, for example, expects more than 27,500 landings and takeoffs this winter, a 10% increase compared to the same month in 2024, with Galeão Airport in Rio de Janeiro making the most of the increase.

Latam Airlines Brasil has scheduled more than 1,300 extra flights between June 23 and August 10, with the expectation of transporting up to 4.1 million passengers during the period.