Tancredo Neves International Airport

Welcome to Tancredo Neves International Airport, also known as Confins Airport! This is the main aerial gateway to the vibrant city of Belo Horizonte and the entire state of Minas Gerais. Named after the former President of Brazil, Tancredo Neves, this modern and spacious airport serves as a vital hub for domestic and international travellers. It is frequently cited as one of the best-equipped airports in Latin America, ensuring your Brazilian adventure begins on a pleasant note.

The airport is a key transport hub that has grown significantly since 2005, when the majority of flights were transferred here from the city's other airport, Pampulha. This strategic move allowed it to become one of the busiest airports in the country.

Features and Benefits

Tancredo Neves International Airport offers passengers comfortable conditions and a wide range of services. Inside, you will find various shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can experience local cuisine or purchase souvenirs. The airport consists of two terminals with convenient connections between them. For travellers needing to reach the centre of Belo Horizonte quickly, special shuttle buses are available, as well as taxis and car rental services.

• Official Website: The airport's main web resource, where you can find flight schedules, service information, and news: www.bh-airport.com.br
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +55 (31) 3689-2700.
• Airport Address: Rodovia LMG-800, Km 7,9, s/n, Confins - MG, CEP 33500-900, Brazil. The airport is located in the municipality of Confins, approximately 40 km from the city centre of Belo Horizonte.
• Email: For most enquiries, the airport suggests using the contact forms on their official website, ensuring faster processing of requests.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on popular social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost and Found Information: For items left in the terminal (excluding checked luggage), please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) department. If your luggage was lost during a flight, you must contact your airline's representative immediately.
• Customer Support Contacts: Information desks are located within the passenger terminal. Additionally, the main airport telephone number can be used for consultations.

Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) is the primary airport for Belo Horizonte and the entire state of Minas Gerais. It is situated approximately 40 kilometres north of the city centre, so it is advisable to plan your route in advance. You can reach the airport in several ways, each offering its own advantages depending on your budget and preferences.

Public Transport. The most popular and economical option is the bus service provided by Conexão Aeroporto. There are two main types of routes: express and conventional. Express buses (Executivo) depart from the central bus station (Rodoviária de Belo Horizonte) and Álvares Cabral Avenue. They are more comfortable, make fewer stops, and the journey takes about 50-60 minutes. Conventional (Convencional) buses take longer as they make more stops along the way, but they are cheaper. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services. For greater comfort and speed, you can use a taxi or popular apps in Brazil such as Uber or 99. A car journey from the city centre to the airport takes 40-50 minutes, excluding traffic. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but it is the most convenient way to reach the terminal directly, especially if you are travelling with family or large luggage.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to explore the surroundings of Belo Horizonte, renting a car can be a great solution. Offices of all major rental companies are present at Tancredo Neves Airport. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, both short-term and long-term parking facilities are provided. Please note that parking fees can be quite high, especially for extended stays.

Important Tip: Do not confuse Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) with Pampulha Airport (PLU), which is located within the city limits and serves mainly regional and domestic flights. Always check which airport your flight departs from to avoid unpleasant surprises.

The International Airport of Belo Horizonte (CNF) consists of two passenger terminals — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. It is important to note that they are fully integrated into a single building, making movement between them simple and convenient. Passengers do not need to go outside or use additional transport to transfer from one terminal to the other.

The airport's main structure is logical and intuitive. Terminal 1 historically serves the majority of domestic flights within Brazil. Terminal 2 is a more modern extension, designed primarily for international flights. Despite this division, the check-in areas and boarding gates of both terminals flow seamlessly into one another, creating a unified space for passengers.

Departure zones, including check-in counters and security checkpoints, are located on the upper floor of the complex. The arrival zone is on the lower (ground) floor, where passengers reclaim their luggage and exit to the city. Transfer between terminals is via an internal corridor connecting both parts of the building. A walk from one end of the airport to the other takes approximately 15-20 minutes at a leisurely pace, which should be considered during transfers.

Regarding the time required for pre-flight formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 1.5-2 hours before departure, especially during peak hours. For international flights, the standard recommendation is to arrive 3 hours early to comfortably complete check-in, passport control, and security screening. Navigation within the airport is straightforward thanks to numerous signs in Portuguese and English, as well as information boards located throughout the building.

The history of Tancredo Neves International Airport, also known as Confins, is inextricably linked to the development of the metropolis of Belo Horizonte. The airport was officially opened in January 1984 with the aim of relieving the old Pampulha Airport and providing the state of Minas Gerais with a modern complex capable of handling large international flights. The project was ambitious, featuring one of the longest runways in Brazil, designed for aircraft of any class.

Despite the advanced infrastructure, the early years of the airport's operation were challenging. Due to its significant distance from the city centre (about 40 km) and the habit of airlines and passengers using the closer Pampulha Airport, Tancredo Neves remained underutilised for a long time. This period in its history even earned it the informal nickname "Ghost Airport". Everything changed in 2005, when a strategic decision was made to transfer most major domestic and all international flights from Pampulha to Confins. This move was a turning point, transforming it into the region's main aviation hub.

A new stage in the airport's development began in 2013 with its privatisation by the BH Airport consortium. In anticipation of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games, significant funds were invested in its modernisation. A key event was the construction and opening of the new Passenger Terminal 2 in December 2016. This more than doubled the capacity to 22 million passengers per year and radically improved the level of comfort for travellers.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport bears the name of Tancredo de Almeida Neves, the elected President of Brazil who passed away in 1985 without taking office. His story is an example of how long-term planning and bold management decisions can turn an undervalued asset into one of the country's most modern and efficient airports, playing a key role in its transport system.

Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) offers passengers a full range of modern services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. In the spacious terminals, you will find plenty of dining options — from cosy coffee shops to restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. For those who enjoy shopping, there are stores selling souvenirs and clothing, as well as a Duty Free zone with a wide assortment of goods.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to stay connected, work, or simply pass the time. Numerous power outlets and special charging stations are provided for gadgets. If you value enhanced comfort, several business lounges and VIP lounges are at your service, where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere while enjoying snacks and beverages.

For the convenience of travellers, the airport has all necessary financial services: ATMs, bank branches, and currency exchange points. In case of feeling unwell, you can visit the 24-hour medical centre for first aid. Passengers with children will appreciate the availability of mother and child rooms, equipped with everything necessary for baby care.

The airport is fully adapted to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, lifts, specially equipped restrooms, and an assistance service (which can be booked in advance) are provided. Conference rooms are available for business travellers. If you need to rest between flights, several modern hotels are located directly on the airport premises and in the immediate vicinity.

At Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF), travellers will find diverse dining options to suit any taste and budget. You will find both well-known international fast-food chains and restaurants offering an introduction to Brazilian cuisine. Most establishments are concentrated in the main passenger terminal, both in the public area (before security control) and in the secure departure zone.

Once at the airport, be sure to try local gastronomic hits. Look out for cafes serving fresh pão de queijo — the famous Brazilian cheese breads, which pair perfectly with a cup of aromatic local coffee. Also, in many establishments, you can order an energising dessert made from açaí berries. This is a great way to taste the flavour of Brazil without leaving the airport.

If you have enough time, you can sit comfortably in one of the full-service restaurants, located primarily in the departure zone after passport control. Here you will be offered a full lunch or dinner with international and local dishes. For those in a hurry, the food court is the ideal choice, gathering fast-food outlets and places with quick service. Numerous coffee shops and snack bars offer light snacks, pastries, and beverages throughout the day.

Most establishments strive to cater to the needs of different passengers. You can find vegetarian and gluten-free dishes on the menus of many restaurants. However, please note that for more specific requests, such as Halal food, the selection may be limited. The price range varies from budget options at the food court to higher prices in full-service restaurants. Opening hours depend on location: cafes and restaurants in the departure zone are usually open from early morning until late at night, aligning with flight schedules, and some outlets may operate 24 hours a day.

To ensure your journey through Tancredo Neves Airport in the city of Belo Horizonte goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these proven tips. A thoughtful approach will help save time, money, and stress, leaving more pleasant impressions of your trip to Brazil.

Planning and Check-in: Try to arrive at the airport in advance: 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international ones. This will give you enough time in case of queues and unforeseen situations. The best way to save time is to complete online check-in on the airline's website. This way, you can head straight to the baggage drop-off counter or, if travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Security and Carry-on Luggage: The security screening procedure is standard, but it can take time during peak hours. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. Remember the rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in carry-on luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat offers more legroom and the ability to exit quickly.

Connecting Passengers and Customs: If you have a connecting flight, especially from international to domestic, check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Look for "Conexão" (Connection) signs in the airport. Those arriving from abroad may need to fill out a customs declaration (e-DBV), especially if carrying goods subject to declaration. Be prepared for potential luggage inspection.

Economy and Comfort: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle — it can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally higher, so having a light snack with you is a good idea. Also, research transfer options to the city in advance: booking a taxi via an app or taking a bus can be more cost-effective than services arranged on the spot.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for information and instructions. In Brazil, passenger rights are regulated by the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), and depending on the length of the delay, you may be entitled to drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation. Use this time to charge your gadgets, use the free Wi-Fi, or explore the shops and cafes in the terminal.