Recife airport (REC)
Location details, contact information, airlines, departure and arrival flight status, transportation, facilities and services, parking, special passenger amenities, nearby hotels and answers to passengers' frequently asked questions.
Passenger Guide
Recife/Guararapes - Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC) is the main air connection hub in Northeastern Brazil and one of the most modern and efficient airports in the country. Opened in its current configuration on July 1, 2004, it stands out for its architecture that integrates Pernambuco's art and culture. Since 2020, it has been managed by the Spanish operator Aena Brasil, which has driven improvements in its infrastructure and services. It serves as a strategic hub for domestic flights and offers direct international connections to Europe, the United States, and South America.
Official Website: aenabrasil.com.br/recife
Information Phone: +55 81 3322 4188.
Terminal
The airport operates with a single passenger terminal, recognized for its functional design and its large roof that allows for the use of natural light. It is one of the largest terminals in Brazil in terms of annual capacity.
Operating hours: The terminal remains open 24 hours.
Annual Passenger Traffic: Approximately 9.6 million passengers traveled through its facilities during the year 2024, consolidating its leadership position in the region.
Information Points
There are Aena information desks located on the first floor (Departures Level) and on the ground floor (Arrivals Level), operating 24 hours to assist travelers.
Location
The airport is located 11 km (7 miles) southwest of downtown Recife.
See MapParking services at Recife airport (REC)
Parking
Recife International Airport features an official parking system managed by the company Estapar. It offers over 2,000 spaces distributed across covered and outdoor areas, located in front of the passenger terminal.
Garage Building (Covered)
It is a multi-level building directly connected to the terminal. It offers greater convenience and protection against the weather.
Services: Signposted spaces, surveillance, and electric vehicle charging stations (located inside the building).
Outdoor Parking
Sector located in the vicinity of the garage building, ideal for taller vehicles or for those looking for a different base rate.
Reservations and App (Zul+):
It is highly recommended to book in advance through the Zul+ platform (Estapar's official app). Online booking (Estapar Reserva) guarantees a space and offers exclusive promotional rates for long stays, much more economical than walk-in payment.
Payment Methods:
The parking lot accepts automatic payments via toll Tags (Sem Parar, Veloe, ConectCar). Self-service payment kiosks (totems) are also distributed at the terminal entrances.
Facilities for passengers with special needs
Recife International Airport (REC) complies with ANAC accessibility regulations (Resolution 280) and offers an adapted infrastructure to ensure the autonomy and safety of passengers with reduced mobility or special needs.
Reduced Mobility
The terminal features access ramps, spacious elevators, adapted restrooms, accessible telephones, and tactile ground surface indicators for visually impaired individuals.
Boarding and Disembarking:
Most flights use boarding bridges (jet bridges). For remote operations, the airport has Ambulifts (lift vehicles) that allow for safe boarding and disembarking from the aircraft without using stairs.
Requesting Assistance:
Wheelchairs and personal assistance are the airline's responsibility. It is mandatory to request this service at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before the flight.
Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower Lanyard: The airport recognizes and promotes the use of the "Sunflower Lanyard." This badge allows staff to discreetly identify passengers with non-visible disabilities (autism, anxiety, dementia), providing them with more patience, support, and guidance during the security and boarding processes.
Priority by Law
In Brazil, preferential treatment is a right guaranteed by law. Priority is given in check-in, security screening, and boarding lines to:
- People over 60 years old.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- People with infants (under 2 years old).
- People with reduced mobility or obesity.
Families
For the comfort of those traveling with babies, the airport provides baby care rooms (fraldários) equipped with changing tables and nursing chairs, located in both the public area and the boarding lounge.
Latest updates: January 04, 2026
Airports in Brazil