Brasilia International Airport

Brasília International Airport – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek (IATA: BSB) is not merely the gateway to the futuristic capital of Brazil, but also one of the most modern and punctual aviation hubs in the world. Located in the heart of the country, it serves as a key hub connecting domestic and international routes, making it the third busiest airport in Brazil. Its well-thought-out infrastructure and efficiency ensure a comfortable start to your journey through the unique corners of this South American nation.

For the convenience of travellers, essential information about the airport is gathered below.

The Brasília airport is renowned for its efficiency and passenger convenience. One of its key features is the seamless transfer between domestic and international flights: passengers do not need to leave the departure area to move to the international sector. The terminal complex boasts two runways and a terminal with developed infrastructure, including over 130 shops and restaurants. As a major hub outside the Rio de Janeiro — São Paulo axis, the airport offers direct flights to more than 40 cities in Brazil and key international destinations such as Lisbon, Miami, Panama, and Buenos Aires.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Brasília International Airport – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek (BSB).

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can always be found on the official website www.bsb.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: For information by phone, you can call: +55 61 3364-9000.
• Airport Address: Aeroporto Internacional de Brasília, Lago Sul, Brasília - DF, 71608-900, Brasil.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on Instagram (@aeroportobsb) and Facebook (/aeroportobsb).
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost something within the terminal, contact the Lost and Found service (Achados e Perdidos) by phone at +55 (61) 3214-6109 or via email at achadoseperdidos.bsb@inframerica.aero. Important: for luggage lost during a flight, please contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: Assistance is available at information desks within the airport building, as well as via the general information desk phone number.

Getting to Brasília International Airport (BSB) from the city centre or, conversely, from the airport to Brasília, can be done in several ways. The airport is located just 11-15 kilometres from the central districts of the capital of Brazil, so the journey does not take much time, and the choice of transport depends on your budget and comfort preferences.

Public Transport: Buses and Metro

The most budget-friendly method is city buses. There are several routes connecting the airport with key points in the city. The most convenient is the express bus Line 113 ("Executivo"), which goes to the central bus station (Rodoviária do Plano Piloto), passing through the Southern and Northern hotel sectors. The fare is slightly higher than a regular city bus, but it is more comfortable and makes fewer stops. The travel time is about 30-40 minutes. There are other, cheaper city routes (e.g., No. 102), but they may be less convenient for tourists with luggage. There is no direct metro connection to the airport, but you can take a bus to the nearest station, `114 Sul`.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

A taxi is the fastest and most convenient option. Official taxi stands are located right at the arrival terminal. Additionally, popular ride-hailing apps like Uber and 99 are active in the city. A trip to the city centre by taxi will take approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. This method is significantly more expensive than the bus, but it ensures comfort and "door-to-door" delivery, which is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to travel extensively around the city and its surroundings, renting a car can be an excellent solution. Offices of major international and local rental companies are present at Brasília airport. The route to the centre is simple and intuitive. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented car, a large parking area is provided. There are several zones: from premium covered parking to more budget-friendly open parking spaces. Please note that parking costs, especially for long-term stays, can be quite high.

International Airport Brasília (BSB) is distinguished by a modern and passenger-friendly structure. In fact, it consists of one large terminal, which is divided into two main boarding zones — the North Pier (Píer Norte) and the South Pier (Píer Sul). This unified concept significantly simplifies navigation and movement around the airport, as you do not need to use shuttles or travel between separate buildings to transfer.

Navigating the airport is quite simple. The departure area with check-in counters is located on the upper floor, while the arrival area, housing baggage claim belts and customs control, is on the lower floor. After passing check-in and pre-flight security, you enter a spacious common area with shops and restaurants. From here, exits lead to the two piers where boarding gates are located. Signs in Portuguese and English will help you easily find your way.

Both piers serve domestic flights; however, the South Pier (Píer Sul) is also used for all international departures and arrivals. This is where passport control counters and Duty Free shops are located. The North Pier (Píer Norte), in turn, specialises primarily in domestic airlines within Brazil. You can walk between the piers through the central zone, which is convenient for connecting flights.

For a comfortable experience, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. Passing through security usually takes 15-30 minutes, but during peak hours, it may take longer. A top tip for navigation: after security, do not rush immediately to your gate. The central plaza of the airport offers far more cafes and shops than the piers themselves. Relax there and periodically check your flight information on the screens, as the boarding gate number may change.

The history of Brasília International Airport, named after President Juscelino Kubitschek, is inextricably linked to the creation of the capital of Brazil itself. The airport was officially opened on May 3, 1957, three years before the city's inauguration. In the early years, it played a crucial role, serving as the main transport artery for delivering builders, materials, and architects who were constructing the futuristic capital in the middle of the Brazilian Cerrado. Initially, it even bore a different name — Vera Cruz Airport.

A key stage of development was the opening of a new passenger terminal in 1965, designed in a modernist style consistent with the architecture of the entire city. In 1971, airport management was transferred to the state company Infraero. A real breakthrough occurred in the 1990s when a massive reconstruction was carried out: by 1994, a new, more spacious and functional terminal was built, which still forms the core of the airport complex today. Another important step was the opening of a second runway in 2005, which significantly increased capacity.

A new era in the airport's history began in 2012 with its privatisation by the Inframerica consortium. This triggered the most extensive modernisation, timed for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. As part of this project, two new piers were built — South and North — allowing for an increase in the number of boarding gates and passenger traffic to 21 million people per year. Thanks to these changes, Brasília Airport strengthened its status as one of the country's main hubs.

Today, Brasília Airport is not just a transport hub but a monument to the bold idea of creating a new capital. It consistently ranks among the top three busiest airports in Brazil by passenger traffic and is famous for its punctuality. Interesting fact: thanks to its central geographical location, you can reach almost any point in the country from here without layovers, making it strategically important for the entire national aviation network.

International Airport Brasília (BSB) offers passengers modern infrastructure and a wide range of services, making the wait for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminals, you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and lounges to suit every taste and budget — from fast food outlets to restaurants serving Brazilian and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, numerous stores are open, including a spacious Duty-Free zone with perfumes, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

For those who value enhanced comfort, VIP halls and business lounges operate at the airport. They offer a secluded atmosphere, complimentary snacks and beverages, newspapers, and convenient workspaces. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous power outlets and USB ports allow you to easily charge electronic devices before your flight.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of unforeseen situations or feeling unwell, a medical centre operates around the clock, ready to provide first aid.

Travellers with children will appreciate the mother and child rooms equipped with everything necessary for infant care. The airport is also fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, specially equipped restrooms, and an assistance service is available, which is recommended to be booked in advance through your airline.

If you have a long layover or an early departure, you can stay at one of the hotels located in immediate proximity to the terminals. For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres are provided where you can hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment.

At International Airport Brasília (BSB), passengers will find diverse dining options capable of satisfying any taste and budget. Food and beverage outlets are conveniently located both in the public area and in the departure zones after security control, offering everything from a quick snack to a leisurely dinner in a restaurant.

The main concentration of cafes and restaurants is in the public area on the second floor, known as Praça Pick-Up. This is a large food court featuring both famous international fast-food chains and local establishments. Here you can find options for every wallet. After passing security in the departure halls of the North and South Piers, the selection is also quite extensive, although prices may be slightly higher.

When travelling through Brazil, be sure to try local cuisine. Look for cafes in the airport serving fresh pão de queijo (cheese bread) and refreshing bowls of açaí. To drink a cup of authentic Brazilian coffee, visit one of the numerous coffee shops. For a more substantial meal, some restaurants offer prato feito — a traditional set meal consisting of meat or chicken, rice, beans, and salad.

For passengers with special dietary preferences, such as vegetarians or vegans, suitable dishes can be found on the menu in most establishments, but it is always better to check the ingredients with the staff. Gluten-free options are also becoming increasingly available. Most establishments open early in the morning and operate until the last flight, and some points in the departure zone may be open 24/7, which is convenient for passengers on night flights.

To make your choice easier, here are a few tips:

• For a quick snack, kiosks selling salgados (various savoury pastries) or the famous cheese bread pão de queijo are ideal.
• For a full lunch or dinner, it is best to head to the Praça Pick-Up food court in the public area, where there is the largest selection and more affordable prices.
• If you have already passed security, you will find cosy cafes and lounges in the departure halls where you can comfortably spend time waiting for boarding.

To ensure your journey through International Airport Brasília goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these tips. Whether you are planning a trip within Brazil or an international flight, thinking through the details will save you time and stress.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — at least 2 hours. During peak hours, early in the morning and late in the evening, allow extra time for the journey to the airport and passing through controls.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in for a flight is online check-in on your airline's website. This allows you to proceed immediately to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, head straight to the security screening area. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your bag, and carry liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag.

Seat Selection: If you want to admire the views during takeoff and landing, choose a window seat. If you prefer the freedom to stand up and leave without disturbing neighbours, choose an aisle seat. For more legroom, consider seats by the emergency exits, but note that airlines often charge an additional fee for them.

Hand Luggage: Always keep your most valuable items in your hand luggage: documents, money, electronics, medication, and fragile items. Sharp objects, weapons, flammable liquids, and pressurised aerosols exceeding established limits are prohibited. We recommend bringing an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security.

Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. This is especially important when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one. There are sufficient signs in the airport, but it is better to study the map beforehand to quickly find the right gate.

Customs Control: When arriving on an international flight, you will have to pass through customs control. If you have goods to declare, use the "Red" channel. If you are not carrying anything requiring declaration, feel free to go through the "Green" channel. Customs control is not required for domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money: Book a taxi or transfer online in advance; this is often cheaper than taking a car on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally high, so you can take a light snack with you. Free Wi-Fi will help you stay connected.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for information. Depending on the waiting time, you may be provided with food vouchers, and in case of a long delay, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for expenses that may be subject to compensation.