Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport

Welcome to Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC) — the main aerial gateway to sunny Recife! This is not merely a transport hub, but a true cultural and commercial centre, named in honour of one of the most prominent Brazilian sociologists and writers born in this city. Located within the city limits, the airport is just one kilometre from the famous Boa Viagem beach, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in a holiday atmosphere almost immediately after landing. The modern "Aeroshopping" concept has turned the terminal into a place where waiting for a flight becomes a pleasant part of the journey.

Guararapes Airport stands out not only for its convenient location but also for its well-thought-out infrastructure. One of its technical features is a unique aircraft refuelling system via an underground pipeline, eliminating the need for fuel trucks. For passenger comfort, everything necessary is available here: from a spacious shopping centre and diverse restaurants to children's play areas and even an art exhibition hall, highlighting the cultural significance of its name. Travellers can also avail themselves of luggage storage, car rental services, an on-site hotel, and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Recife International Airport (REC).

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the airport's official website, managed by Aena Brasil: www.aenabrasil.com.br.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate enquiries, you can call: +55 (81) 3322-4188.
• Address: Praça Ministro Salgado Filho, s/n - Imbiribeira, Recife - PE, 51210-902, Brazil.
• Email: For official enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the airport website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on popular social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" (Lost and Found) service. If your luggage was lost during the flight, you must contact your airline's representative immediately.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information desks are located in the arrival and departure halls. Staff are always ready to assist with airport navigation and answer general questions.

Getting to Guararapes International Airport in Recife is straightforward, as it is conveniently integrated into the city's transport system. Travellers can choose the option that best suits their budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical method. The airport has its own metro station, Aeroporto, which is located on the South Line (Linha Sul) and connected to the passenger terminal by a convenient covered walkway. This is a fast and reliable way to reach the city centre or the main bus terminal (TIP), avoiding traffic jams. A metro ride to the centre takes about 25-30 minutes. Additionally, numerous city buses stop at the airport, connecting it to various districts of Recife and popular tourist destinations such as Porto de Galinhas.

Taxi and Transfers offer comfort and speed. Outside the arrivals area, you will find counters for official taxi services; ride-hailing apps like Uber also operate actively in the city. This is the ideal option for travellers with heavy luggage, families with children, or those arriving late at night. A trip to the nearest tourist district, Boa Viagem, takes just 10–15 minutes, while reaching the historic centre (Recife Antigo) takes about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for independent travellers. Offices of major international and local rental companies are located within the airport terminal. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore not only the city but also the picturesque beaches and historic towns of the state of Pernambuco. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, spacious parking is provided with options for both short-term and long-term stays.

Overall, the transport accessibility of Recife Airport is among the best in Brazil. For budget-conscious tourists and those travelling light, the metro is the optimal solution. If comfort and speed are priorities, feel free to choose a taxi or book a private transfer.

Recife International Airport (REC) features a modern and well-designed structure that makes it very convenient for travellers. The main feature of the airport is that it consists of one large and integrated passenger terminal. This terminal serves both domestic and international flights, eliminating the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. It has several levels, each serving a specific function:

• Ground Floor (Piso Térreo): This is the Arrivals area. Baggage claim belts, customs control for international flights, as well as exits to taxis, buses, and car rental counters are located here.
• First Floor (1º Andar): This houses the spacious check-in area and baggage drop-off.
• Second Floor (2º Andar): This is the Departures level. After check-in, passengers proceed up here to go through security screening and passport control (for international flights). The main shopping area, food court, and boarding gates are also located here.

Since there is only one terminal, movement between zones takes place within a single building using escalators and lifts. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated by floors, minimizing confusion. After passing security, passengers enter a common secure area with boarding gates for both domestic and international destinations.

Processing times at Guararapes Airport are usually short due to its efficiency. However, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one, especially during peak seasons. To navigate the terminal, simply follow the numerous signs in Portuguese and English. A significant advantage is the covered pedestrian bridge that directly connects the airport building to the Aeroporto metro station, ensuring easy access to the urban transport system.

The history of the airport in Recife is closely linked to global events. Its origins date back to World War II, when the Ibura Field Air Base was established on this site. It served as a strategic point for aircraft crossing the Atlantic. After the war, in 1958, the first passenger terminal was opened, and the military airfield began its transformation into a civil airport serving the capital of the state of Pernambuco.

The airport's name is a tribute to the region's history. "Guararapes" refers to the famous Battles of Guararapes in the 17th century, which were a turning point in the struggle for Brazil's independence and took place nearby. Later, the name of Gilberto Freyre — a renowned Brazilian sociologist, anthropologist, and writer born in Recife — was added, highlighting the cultural significance of this place.

A key stage in the airport's modern history was a massive reconstruction completed in 2004. A completely new, modern, and spacious terminal was built to replace the old building. This project not only increased capacity to millions of passengers per year but also brought the airport numerous architectural awards. The new terminal was designed with passenger comfort in mind and became one of the most advanced in the country at the time.

Modernization allowed Guararapes Airport to dignifiedly welcome guests during major international events, such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Today, it regularly ranks high in lists of the best airports in Latin America and the Caribbean for service quality. An interesting fact: the interior design features works by the famous local artist Francisco Brennand, turning the wait for a flight into an introduction to the art of Pernambuco.

Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC) offers passengers a full range of services to make their stay as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need here for a pleasant wait for your flight.

The terminal features numerous restaurants, cafes, and snack bars where you can have a bite before your flight, enjoying both Brazilian cuisine and international dishes. For those who love shopping, various stores are open, including a large Duty Free, where you can buy souvenirs, cosmetics, beverages, and other goods at attractive prices.

Passengers seeking privacy and enhanced comfort can utilize the VIP lounges and business lounges. Here, in a quiet atmosphere, you can work, relax, and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available to all travellers throughout the airport, along with numerous charging stations for electronic devices.

Financial matters can be easily resolved at the airport: ATMs, bank branches, and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of need, you can visit the 24-hour medical centre for first aid.

For passengers with children, baby care rooms are equipped where you can look after little ones in comfort. The airport is also fully adapted for travellers with disabilities: there are ramps, lifts, and assistance services available.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels of various price categories are located near the airport. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms may be available, allowing effective use of waiting time for work and meetings.

At Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport in Recife, passengers have access to a wide selection of establishments for a quick snack or a full meal. Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the main passenger terminal, both in the public area (before security control) and in the "airside" departure zone.

For those wishing to have a substantial meal before their flight, several à la carte restaurants operate in the airport. They are located primarily in the public area and the food court. Here you can find dishes of international and, of course, local Brazilian cuisine. Be sure to try the traditional cheese bread pão de queijo or a refreshing bowl of açaí berries. The price range in such establishments is medium to above average, but it is an excellent option for a leisurely lunch.

If time is limited, numerous fast-food outlets and coffee shops are at your service. The airport features both famous global fast-food chains and local cafes where you can order sandwiches, pastries, salads, and excellent coffee. This is a more budget-friendly and quick way to have a snack. Most of these establishments are located in the departure zone after passport control, and some operate 24 hours a day, which is particularly convenient for passengers on night flights.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements should study the menu carefully. While specialized vegan or Halal restaurants may not be available, many cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, fresh salads, fruits, and smoothies. Gluten-free options can also be found, though the selection may be limited. It is recommended to check ingredients with staff before ordering.

Planning is the key to a stress-free start to your journey from Guararapes International Airport in Recife. We recommend arriving 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic one. To avoid queues, complete online check-in and select your seat on the plane in advance. Incidentally, window seats during take-off or landing can offer magnificent views of the coastline.

Navigation within the airport is intuitive. When passing through security control, be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your bags in advance. If you have a connecting flight, check your next boarding gate number on the information screens immediately upon arrival. Guararapes Airport is quite compact, which simplifies movement between zones.

Strictly observe baggage allowance rules. In hand luggage, liquids are permitted in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and other prohibited items should be left at home or checked in to avoid delays and confiscation. Travellers arriving in Brazil from other countries will have to pass through customs control. If you have no goods to declare, feel free to proceed through the "Green Channel".

To save a little, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after the security checkpoint. If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is contact your airline representative for up-to-date information. While waiting, you can use the free Wi-Fi, relax in one of the numerous cafes, or explore the shops. Remain calm and clarify with the carrier what services (meals, accommodation) they are obliged to provide in your situation.