Rio’s Galeão Airport Targets 14.2 Million Passengers by 2024
In the vibrant heart of Rio de Janeiro, Tom Jobim International Airport, more commonly known as Galeão, is on track to redefine its scale and scope by the end of 2024.
Situated in the city’s bustling northern zone, the airport is poised to register 14.2 million passengers.
This ambitious goal nearly doubles the 7.9 million travelers recorded in 2023 and rivals the 15 million peak seen in 2018.
From the outset of the year through May, Galeão has already greeted 5.6 million people.
RIOGaleão, the management company, reports significant growth. They project that July alone will bring in 1.2 million passengers.

This number not only doubles the previous July’s statistics but also sets a new high since 2018. Flight operations in July have surged by 126% over last year.
The anticipated 1.2 million in July includes 857,000 on domestic routes and 382,000 on international journeys.
In addition, the busiest international flights connect Rio with cities like Buenos Aires, Santiago, Panama City, Lisbon, and Bogotá.
On the domestic front, flights frequently head to São Paulo, Recife, Salvador, Belo Horizonte, and Fortaleza.
Enhancements at Galeão Airport
To manage the increased flow, Galeão will open five aircraft slots at Terminal 1 next month.
Terminal 2 will bolster support with specialized teams, three new info posts, and 500 additional baggage carts.
Furthermore, Galeão has recently partnered with Rio’s Operations Center (COR) to enhance response capabilities during crises, including fires and runway issues.
This collaboration involves joint emergency drills and ensures a workstation at COR for major events.
However, this integration mirrors Rio’s eventful year, already marked by a notable summer and a Madonna concert.
Dimas Salvia, the operations director at RIOGaleão, highlighted the city’s readiness for upcoming events like the G20 and Rock in Rio.
He emphasized the technical partnership’s role in reinforcing safety and enhancing service quality, reflecting a commitment to excellence in facing Rio’s bustling future.
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This article was drafted with automated assistance and reviewed before publication. How we use AI · Report an error · Editorial responsibility: Matthias Camenzind, Editor-in-Chief
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