Rio de Janeiro Galeão airport (GIG)

Antônio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG), better known as Galeão International Airport, is the main air terminal in Rio de Janeiro and the second busiest airport for international traffic in Brazil. Opened on January 20, 1977, it serves as a vital hub for domestic flights and routes to the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East.

Official Website: riogaleao.com

Phone: +55 21 3004 6050 / WA: +55 21 967 615 041

Social Media:

Terminals

The airport operates two passenger terminals, both open 24 hours and connected by pedestrian walkways:

• Terminal 1: Primarily focused on General and Executive Aviation, as well as specific operations and charter flights.
• Terminal 2: Handles the vast majority of commercial airline flights, both domestic and international.

Annual Traffic (2024): 14.4 million passengers.

Information Points

You will find 24-hour customer service counters and “Welcome Centers” mainly located in Terminal 2 (arrivals and departures levels). The airport also features interactive screens and assistance staff identified by “Posso Ajudar?” (“Can I help?”) vests in high-traffic areas.

 Location

The airport is located on Governador Island, 20 km (13 miles) north of the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Parking services at Rio de Janeiro Galeão Airport (GIG)

The airport grounds offer extensive parking infrastructure, with options ranging from premium areas with direct access to the terminals to budget long-stay sectors. All parking areas operate 24 hours a day, feature security, and allow online reservations to obtain reduced rates.

Edifício Garagem

Located adjacent to Terminal 2, it provides the greatest convenience for immediate access to the check-in counters.

• Features: Covered spaces distributed across 6 floors.
• Access: Direct walkway connection to the terminal (approximately 1 minute).
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking speed and protection from the weather.

Premium Level

Located on an exclusive floor of the Edifício Garagem, this sector offers an enhanced experience with greater comfort.

• Features: Larger parking spaces, exclusive access, and direct connection to the Plaza Premium Lounge.
• Location: Second floor of the Garage Building.

Economy Sectors

Outdoor options (with some shaded areas) designed for long stays at reduced rates.

• Económico 2: Located between the two terminals. It offers walking access to Terminal 2 (approximately 6 minutes). This area also includes dedicated spaces for motorcycles.
• Económico 1: Located next to Terminal 1. Requires an internal walk of about 10–15 minutes to Terminal 2. It often offers the lowest rates available through online booking.

Reservations and Payments

It is recommended to make an advance reservation through the official website or the Zul+ app to guarantee a parking space and access significant discounts compared to counter rates.

• Payment methods: Cash (Brazilian Reais), credit/debit cards, and automatic toll tags (Sem Parar, ConectCar).

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Tom Jobim International Airport complies with ANAC (National Civil Aviation Agency) regulations to ensure accessibility for all users. In addition to adapted physical infrastructure, the airport stands out for being a pioneer in inclusion programs for non-visible disabilities.

“Sunflower Lanyard” Program

Galeão was the first airport in Brazil to officially join the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. This program allows passengers with hidden disabilities (such as autism, anxiety, or dementia) to be discreetly identified through the use of a green sunflower-patterned lanyard. Airport staff are trained to recognize this symbol and provide additional assistance, extra time, or patience during airport procedures.

Requesting Assistance

If you need special assistance (wheelchair, escort for reduced mobility, etc.), you must notify your airline at least 48 to 72 hours in advance of your flight. This ensures that the company has the necessary staff and equipment (such as ambulift service) for your boarding and disembarking.

Infrastructure and Parking

The premises feature:

• Access: Access ramps, elevators, adapted phones, and accessible restrooms in all public and restricted areas.
• Parking: There are reserved and clearly marked parking spaces exclusively for people with special needs, seniors, and pregnant women both in the Terminal 1 parking lot and in the Terminal 2 Garage Building.