Aerial View of Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport

Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport GIG

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Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport (GIG) Guide

Discover the vibrant gateway to Brazil at Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport (GIG), known for its captivating mural by Brazilian artist Ueslei Marcelino in Terminal 2. This guide simplifies your travel with essential info on flights, amenities, and more. Ready for a seamless journey? Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for everything from parking to dining.

GIG has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has 26 gates and is primarily used for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 has 27 gates and is used for international flights. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United use Terminal 2 for their departures.

When navigating the airport, it's important to know which terminal your airline is departing from. Signs throughout the airport will direct you to the appropriate terminal. If you need assistance, there are information desks located in both terminals.

Once you arrive at your terminal, you can easily locate your gate by checking the flight information screens. These screens will display the flight number, destination, and gate number. If you have any questions or concerns, airport staff are available to assist you.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Travelers arriving at GIG Airport can easily move between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 using the free shuttle bus service provided by the airport. The shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day, and takes approximately 10 minutes to travel between the terminals.

If you prefer to walk between terminals, it is possible to do so via a covered walkway that connects the two terminals. The walk takes approximately 15 minutes, but can be longer depending on your walking speed and the amount of luggage you are carrying.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At GIG, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so drivers should not leave their vehicles unattended. The airport also provides cell-phone waiting areas for drivers who are waiting for arriving passengers.

Drivers who wish to park their vehicles at the airport can use the airport's parking facilities, which are located near the terminal buildings. There are both short-term and long-term parking options available, and rates vary depending on the length of stay. Passengers who are being dropped off at the airport can also use the airport's taxi and shuttle services, which are located near the terminal buildings.

Parking Facilities & Options

Traveling can be stressful, but finding parking at GIG Airport doesn't have to be. The airport offers several parking options for travelers, including both covered and uncovered lots and garages. Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 each have their own parking facilities, so be sure to park in the correct location for your departing flight.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, the airport also has cell phone waiting areas available. These areas allow you to wait in your car until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

For those with disabilities, designated handicapped parking spaces are available in all parking facilities. Be sure to display your disability placard or license plate to park in these spaces.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These lots typically offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal. Just be sure to allow extra time for the shuttle ride.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport. One of the most convenient options is car rental, with several major providers such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget available at the airport. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore the city at their own pace.

Taxi services are also available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside of the terminals. Fares are typically based on distance and time, with additional fees for luggage and tolls. Visitors should be aware that traffic in Rio de Janeiro can be heavy, which may impact travel time and cost.

For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminals, and visitors should be aware of any restrictions or fees associated with these services.

Airport shuttles are another option for travelers, offering convenient and affordable transportation to and from the airport. These shuttles typically have designated pickup areas and fares based on distance and time.

Finally, public transportation options such as buses and trains are available for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Visitors can easily access these services from the airport, with fares based on distance and time.

Airport Hotels

When traveling, finding the right accommodation can be crucial for a stress-free journey. Whether you're seeking a hotel within walking distance to the airport or looking for a place that gives you easy access to the city's attractions, we have curated a selection of hotels that cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Our selection includes hotels that are just a stone's throw away from the airport, ideal for those with early flights or unexpected layovers. For the travelers keen on exploring the local sights, we have included hotels that are in close proximity to popular attractions. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, you're sure to find a hotel that suits your needs. View all Rio de Janeiro Airport Hotels now.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

At the airport, travelers can find a variety of dining and shopping options to enjoy before their flight. Terminal 1 offers a range of fast food options, including Burger King, Subway, and KFC. For those looking for a sit-down meal, the Galeao Grill is a popular choice, serving up Brazilian barbecue and other local specialties.

In Terminal 2, travelers can find a wider selection of dining options, including international cuisine. For a taste of Italy, head to Viena Delish, serving up pizza and pasta dishes. For Asian cuisine, check out Temaki Express, offering sushi and other Japanese favorites. Those looking for a quick snack can stop by Café du Centre for a coffee and pastry.

When it comes to shopping, Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport has plenty of options to choose from. In Terminal 1, travelers can find stores selling souvenirs, snacks, and travel essentials. In Terminal 2, there are even more options, including luxury brands like Michael Kors and Carolina Herrera, as well as duty-free shops selling alcohol, tobacco, and cosmetics.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Rio de Janeiro Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, here's where to find everything you need.

Passenger Services

Rio de Janeiro Airport, also known as GIG, is one of the busiest airports in Brazil. The airport offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience comfortable and stress-free.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. You can easily connect your device to the airport's network and enjoy high-speed internet access.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport's lost and found department is located in Terminal 2. You can contact them by phone or email to report a lost item or inquire about a lost item you have found.

Traveling with children? The airport has designated children's areas where kids can play and have fun before their flight. These areas are located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

The airport also offers special-needs services for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and special boarding procedures. You can request these services in advance or upon arrival at the airport.

If you need to do some banking during your travels, you can find several banks and ATMs located throughout the airport. These include Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, and Santander.

In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a medical center located in Terminal 2. The center is staffed by trained medical professionals and is equipped to handle a range of medical issues.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is essential to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. At GIG, passengers can easily access flight information through various methods.

One of the most common ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These screens are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also stay informed by downloading their airline's mobile phone app. These apps often send push notifications, text messages, or emails about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. It is recommended to enable notifications for the app to receive timely updates.

Another way to check flight status is by visiting the airline's website or calling their customer service hotline. However, these methods may not always provide the most up-to-date information.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at GIG Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

When traveling through GIG Airport, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before your international flight. The busiest times to avoid are during the morning and evening rush hours, as well as holidays and weekends.

Getting to the Airport

The best ways to get to the airport are by taxi, private car, or public transportation. Taxis and private cars can be easily booked through various apps, while public transportation options include the BRT express bus line and local buses. It is important to plan your transportation in advance to ensure you arrive at the airport on time.

Getting Oriented

When arriving at Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport, it can be helpful to use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented. These maps provide detailed information on the airport's layout, including the location of terminals, gates, and amenities. Additionally, airport staff are available to assist with any questions or concerns you may have.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at Rio de Janeiro Airport, it is important to arrive early, stay informed about flight updates, and follow all security procedures. Additionally, it is recommended to pack light and avoid bringing prohibited items in your carry-on or checked luggage. By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Airport Facts & Stats

The airport, also known as Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, is the second busiest airport in Brazil, located in Rio de Janeiro city. It has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, serving both domestic and international flights.

The airport handles an average of 50,000 passengers daily, with an average of 300 daily flights. The top airlines with the most daily flights are Gol, LATAM, and Azul.

The airport serves over 26 million passengers annually, with flights to over 26 domestic and international destinations. The top 5 destinations served are Sao Paulo, Brasilia, Campinas, Belo Horizonte, and Salvador.

Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport is a hub for LATAM Brasil, Gol, and Azul airlines.

Airport History

Rio de Janeiro Airport, also known as Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, is the second busiest airport in Brazil and serves as a major hub for international flights. The airport has a rich history dating back to the 1920s.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1923 - The airport was inaugurated as a military airbase.
  • 1945 - The airport was opened to civil aviation and named after Bartolomeu de Gusmão, a Brazilian aviation pioneer.
  • 1952 - The airport was renamed to Galeao International Airport after the nearby island of Galeao.
  • 1977 - The airport was expanded with the construction of a new passenger terminal.
  • 1999 - The airport was privatized and underwent a major renovation, including the construction of a new runway and a second passenger terminal.
  • 2014 - The airport was renamed to GIG in honor of Brazilian musician Antonio Carlos Jobim.
  • 2016 - The airport hosted the Summer Olympics and Paralympics, with significant upgrades to its infrastructure and facilities.

Today, GIG Airport is a modern and efficient airport that serves millions of passengers every year, connecting Brazil to destinations around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: GIG
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +55 21 3004-6050
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport, Av. Vinte de Janeiro, s/n - Ilha do Governador, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 21941-900, Brazil

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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