Congonhas Airport in São Paulo Embarks on Major Expansion and Modernization Project
On December 11, Congonhas Airport in São Paulo officially began a comprehensive expansion and modernization initiative aimed at boosting capacity and efficiency by 2028. The project represents a significant investment of R$ 2.4 billion (approximately $400 million).
Strategic Adjustments for Construction
To ensure smooth operations during the construction phase, the airport will temporarily reduce its flight movements from 44 to 40 per hour. Aena, the operator of Congonhas since October 2023, confirmed this adjustment. CEO Santiago Yus stated that this measure is designed to minimize disruptions while the upgrades are underway.
Congonhas currently operates at approximately 80% of its maximum capacity, which is capped at 55 movements per hour by Brazil’s Airspace Control Department.
Key Features of the Expansion
The project will dramatically expand the passenger terminal, doubling its size to 100,000 square meters. It also includes the addition of 20,000 square meters of new commercial spaces and boarding bridges. These enhancements will enable the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A321neo and Boeing 737 Max 10, with the upgrades scheduled for completion by June 2028.
Addressing Operational Challenges
Congonhas Airport has faced delays and cancellations in the past due to operating near its capacity limits. These issues, compounded by weather conditions and operational constraints, have impacted the airport’s punctuality rankings.
While Guarulhos Airport, another major hub in São Paulo, handles more flights overall, it does not consistently reach its maximum capacity of 60 movements per hour. The planned improvements at Congonhas aim to alleviate these operational pressures and improve its efficiency, especially given its importance to domestic air travel in Brazil.
Balancing Expansion with Community Concerns
Currently, Congonhas operates with restricted hours, closing from 11 PM to 6 AM. While this limits overnight disruptions, local residents have raised concerns about potential noise increases if operating hours are extended.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Aena President Maurici Lucena emphasized the significance of this investment, noting it as Aena’s largest project outside Spain. Silvio Costa Filho, Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, highlighted the transformative potential of the project for São Paulo’s aviation landscape.
Phased Development Plan
To reduce construction impacts, Aena has adopted a phased approach. Early improvements, including expanded remote boarding areas and upgraded restrooms, are expected to be completed by early 2025.
Enhancing the Travel Experience
The expansion of Congonhas Airport addresses long-standing operational inefficiencies while preparing the hub to meet increasing demand for air travel. These upgrades aim to deliver a better experience for passengers and solidify the airport’s role as a critical player in Brazil’s aviation network.
This transformative initiative promises to elevate the standard of air travel in São Paulo and support the region’s growing transportation needs.
