São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), also known as Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport, is Brazil’s busiest airport and a major hub for international travel in South America. Serving the city of São Paulo, GRU is the primary gateway for both domestic and international travelers coming to and from Brazil. Here’s what you need to know to navigate Guarulhos International Airport.
Location and Terminals
Guarulhos Airport is located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of São Paulo’s city center. The airport has three main terminals:
- Terminal 1: Mainly handles domestic flights for Azul Airlines. Terminal 1 is smaller and mainly used for regional flights within Brazil.
- Terminal 2: Serves both domestic and international flights and is used by multiple airlines, including LATAM, Gol, and several international carriers. This terminal has a wide range of dining, shopping, and lounge options.
- Terminal 3: Primarily for international flights, Terminal 3 is modern and spacious, with many amenities. It hosts airlines like American Airlines, Lufthansa, Emirates, and other major international carriers. Terminal 3 also offers a variety of duty-free stores, dining options, and lounges.
Shuttle buses connect the terminals, making transfers straightforward.
Flights and Airlines
GRU is a major international hub for flights to and from Latin America, Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. It’s the primary base for LATAM Airlines and Gol Linhas Aéreas, and you’ll also find many major international airlines operating here, including Air France, British Airways, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines. With its extensive connections, GRU makes it easy to access almost any major destination worldwide.
Getting to and from the Airport
- Airport Express Train: São Paulo’s CPTM Line 13 connects Guarulhos Airport to the city’s rail network. The Airport Express runs directly between Guarulhos and São Paulo’s main downtown stations, making it a fast, budget-friendly option.
- Airport Buses (Airport Bus Service): The Airport Bus Service operates comfortable buses to several locations around São Paulo, including major hotels and business areas, for a moderate price.
- Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are widely available at the airport. The drive to downtown São Paulo typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
- Car Rentals: Several car rental companies operate at GRU, so renting a car is an option if you plan to explore more of São Paulo or surrounding areas.
Facilities and Amenities
Guarulhos International Airport has a wide range of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers:
- Dining: The airport has a broad range of dining options, including Brazilian, international cuisine, fast food, and cafes. Terminals 2 and 3, in particular, have a strong selection for travelers seeking a quick bite or a sit-down meal.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops are available in the international terminals, offering luxury brands, electronics, and local Brazilian goods. Other stores throughout the airport provide souvenirs, books, and essentials.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, though speeds can vary depending on passenger volume. Paid Wi-Fi options are also available for faster speeds.
- Lounges: GRU has several VIP lounges, including the Star Alliance Lounge, American Airlines Admirals Club, and LATAM’s lounge. Many lounges also offer paid access for travelers looking for a quiet space to relax and enjoy refreshments before their flights.
- Sleeping Pods and Nearby Hotels: For travelers with long layovers, GRU offers sleeping pods in Terminal 3. The nearby Marriott and Pullman hotels also offer convenient accommodation for those needing more comfort during their layover.
Tips for Travelers
- Arrive Early: GRU can be very busy, so plan to arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights to allow time for check-in and security.
- Prepare for Security and Customs: Brazil’s customs and security can take some time, especially during peak travel hours, so plan ahead and have all your travel documents ready.
- Consider Lounge Access: If you have a long layover or an early flight, consider accessing one of the airport lounges to relax, recharge, and grab refreshments.
- Keep Local Currency: While credit cards are widely accepted, having some Brazilian reais (BRL) on hand can be helpful for smaller purchases or transportation.
In Summary
São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport is a well-equipped, modern airport that efficiently handles millions of travelers each year. With extensive facilities, strong international connections, and several convenient transportation options, GRU provides a solid experience for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re visiting São Paulo or connecting to another destination, GRU has everything you need for a smooth journey. Safe travels!