Rio de Janeiro/Galeao International Airport, officially named Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, is the primary international airport serving Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Named after the legendary bossa nova composer, the airport is located on Governador Island in Guanabara Bay, approximately 20 kilometers north of the city center. GIG opened in 1977 to handle international traffic that had outgrown the older Santos Dumont Airport, which continues to serve as the downtown airport for domestic shuttle flights. The airport handles over 11 million passengers annually across two terminals. Terminal 2 is the primary terminal for international flights and major domestic carriers, while Terminal 1 handles additional domestic and select international services. Galeao serves as a hub for Gol Linhas Aereas and LATAM Airlines and receives international flights from carriers across the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East. The airport operates two runways. Ground transportation includes the BRT Transcarioca bus rapid transit line, premium bus services, and taxi connections to the city. During the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympic Games, the airport underwent substantial renovations to improve passenger experience and increase capacity. Rio de Janeiro's iconic attractions, including Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the annual Carnival celebration, make Galeao a major gateway for international tourism in Brazil.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport to the city center?

The BRT Transcarioca bus line connects the airport to various parts of Rio de Janeiro. Premium bus services (Real Auto Onibus 2018) run to Santos Dumont Airport and the city center for about BRL 20 (USD 4). Taxis to Copacabana or Ipanema cost approximately BRL 120-180 (USD 25-35) for the 25-35 km trip, taking 30-60 minutes. Ride-hailing (Uber/99) is widely used.

How many terminals does Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport have?

Galeao-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 handles some domestic flights, and Terminal 2 serves international flights and major domestic carriers. The terminals are connected by a covered walkway. A free shuttle bus also operates between them.

What is notable about Galeao Airport?

GIG is named after Antonio Carlos Jobim, the legendary Brazilian composer who wrote The Girl from Ipanema and helped create the bossa nova genre. The airport is located on Governador Island in Guanabara Bay, offering views of the surrounding mountains including Sugarloaf Mountain on approach. It serves as one of Brazil's two primary international gateways alongside Sao Paulo Guarulhos.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Galeao Airport?

Yes, GIG offers free Wi-Fi in both terminals. The network provides basic browsing speeds. Terminal 2 has a wider selection of shops, restaurants, and lounges. The airport also features artwork and installations celebrating Rio's cultural heritage.

Which airlines operate from Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport?

LATAM Airlines Brazil and Gol Linhas Aereas have the largest domestic operations. Azul Brazilian Airlines also serves the airport. International carriers include American Airlines, Air France, KLM, TAP Portugal, and Emirates. GIG handles a large share of Rio's international tourist traffic, especially during Carnival and major sporting events.