Afonso Pena International Airport

Welcome to Afonso Pena International Airport – the main air gateway not only to Curitiba, but to the entire state of Paraná! Located in the city of São José dos Pinhais, this airport serves as the starting point for exploring one of Brazil's greenest and most innovative metropolises. Hundreds of flights depart from here daily, connecting the south of the country with major cities in Latin America and the world. The airport is named after the sixth president of Brazil, Afonso Augusto Moreira Pena, and is renowned for its organisation and passenger comfort.

Afonso Pena Airport plays a key role in the transport system of southern Brazil, serving both domestic and international destinations. Its modern infrastructure and convenient location make it a popular choice for millions of tourists and business travellers.

Afonso Pena International Airport offers passengers everything needed for a comfortable wait for their flight. The main terminal houses a shopping complex with over 60 stores where you can purchase souvenirs, clothing, and goods from local brands. For the convenience of travellers, numerous cafes and restaurants are available, offering both Brazilian and international cuisine. Passengers can also utilise VIP lounges for a more private relaxation experience. Thanks to a well-developed transport network, getting to the centre of Curitiba is easy by bus, taxi, or rental car.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB).

• Official Website: www.ccraeroportos.com.br/afonsopena-curitiba-pr
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (41) 3381-1515 (general airport information), 0800 727 4720 (CCR Aeroportos customer service).
• Airport Address: Av. Rocha Pombo, s/n - Águas Belas, São José dos Pinhais, PR, 83010-900, Brazil.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the official contact form on the airport's website in the "Fale Conosco" (Contact Us) section.
• Social Media: News and updates can be found on the pages of the operating company CCR Aeroportos on Instagram and Facebook.
• Lost and Found: If you have left personal belongings within the airport premises, please contact the "Achados e Perdidos" service. Contact phone: +55 (41) 3381-1494. Important: for issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and enquiries, you can use the unified toll-free number 0800 727 4720.

Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) is located in the city of São José dos Pinhais, but it effectively serves the entire metropolitan area of Curitiba, the capital of the state of Paraná. Getting there from the city centre or, conversely, from the airport to Curitiba, can be done in several ways suitable for any budget and travel style.

The most economical method is via municipal and special buses. A comfortable "Aeroporto Executivo" shuttle bus runs from the airport to downtown Curitiba. It makes fewer stops and is equipped with luggage space, making it convenient for tourists. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes. Additionally, there are cheaper city buses (for example, route 208 Ligeirinho) that connect the airport with Curitiba's bus terminals, though the trip may take longer and require transfers.

For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage, the best choice would be taxis or ride-hailing services (such as Uber). A taxi ride from the airport to the centre of Curitiba will take approximately 30-40 minutes excluding traffic, though the cost will be significantly higher compared to the bus. Official taxi stands are located right at the exit of the arrivals hall, ensuring a safe journey.

If you plan to actively travel around the state of Paraná, renting a car is a good solution. Offices of all major international and local rental companies are present at Afonso Pena Airport. This provides freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore the surroundings at your own pace. For those arriving at the airport in a private vehicle, both short-term and long-term parking facilities with varying tariff rates are available.

The choice of transport depends on your priorities. For budget travellers, buses are ideal, while for those who value time and comfort, taxis are preferred. Important tip: always allow extra time for the journey, especially during morning and evening rush hours, as traffic congestion is possible on the highway between Curitiba and the airport. It is recommended to check the route and current traffic conditions in advance.

Travellers whose itinerary covers the southern part of Brazil should also keep other transport hubs in mind. For instance, 86 km to the south lies Joinville Airport, and for trips to the popular resorts of Santa Catarina state, Navegantes Airport or the major Hercílio Luz International Airport in Florianópolis are often used. These options can be convenient for planning complex routes across the region.

Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) is distinguished by a modern structure that is easy for passengers to navigate. It consists of one main passenger terminal that serves both domestic (national) and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation, as you do not have to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and organised by floors. The Ground Floor (Piso Térreo) houses the arrivals area. Here, passengers reclaim their luggage, pass through customs control (for international flights), and exit into the general hall where greeters wait, alongside car rental desks, taxis, and bus stops. The First Floor (Piso Superior) contains the departures area. This is where you go for flight check-in (Embarque) and pre-flight security screening.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. After check-in and baggage drop on the first floor, passengers proceed through security control. They then enter the general "airside" area with shops, cafes, and waiting lounges. From here, boarding gates diverge into different wings: one designated for domestic flights within Brazil, and the other for international ones. International flight passengers will need to pass through additional passport control before proceeding to boarding.

To complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights, about 3 hours. Although the airport is not gigantic, queues can form at check-in and security during peak hours. Overall, navigation within the terminal is straightforward thanks to clear signage in Portuguese and English, making it quite easy to find your way even on your first visit.

The history of Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) is a fascinating journey from a military facility to one of the best aviation hubs in Brazil. Its story began not with civil flights, but with defence needs. The airfield was built in 1945 as part of a cooperation between the Brazilian Air Force and the US Army during World War II. It opened for civil transport after the war ended, in 1946, and was named in honour of Afonso Augusto Moreira Pena, the country's sixth president.

A key moment in the airport's development was 1974, when management was transferred to the state company Infraero. This marked the beginning of systematic modernisation. However, a true transformation occurred in 1996. It was then that a completely new, modern passenger terminal was opened, which continues to serve travellers today. The old terminal building was not demolished but wisely repurposed—today it serves as a thriving cargo terminal, one of the busiest in the country. This reconstruction radically changed the airport's appearance and capabilities.

Over the years, Afonso Pena has repeatedly been named the best airport in Brazil by passengers. It has been noted for its cleanliness, efficiency, and comfort. In 2021, a new chapter in its history began: the airport was granted under concession to the private operator CCR Aeroportos, initiating another stage of modernisation aimed at further expansion and service quality improvement. Today, it is not just the airport of the city of São José dos Pinhais, but an important hub for the entire southern region.

Among interesting facts, one can highlight its military past, which is still echoed by the location of certain service buildings. The conversion of the old terminal into a cargo hub is a prime example of successful infrastructure renovation. Thus, Afonso Pena Airport is not just a point on the map for travellers, but a place with a rich history reflecting the stages of development of Brazilian aviation.

Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) offers passengers a full range of services designed to make waiting for flights as comfortable as possible. The terminal features numerous dining outlets to suit every taste: from fast-food chains to restaurants where you can try local cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are stores selling souvenirs, clothing, and accessories, as well as a Duty Free zone with a wide selection of goods at attractive prices.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices ensure you don't have to worry about low battery on your smartphone or laptop. Additionally, financial matters can be easily resolved at the airport: ATMs, several bank branches, and currency exchange offices are at the passengers' disposal, which is particularly convenient for international tourists.

Passengers who value enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP lounges and business lounges. Here you can relax in silence, work, or enjoy snacks and beverages. For travellers with children, mother and child rooms are provided. The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, specially equipped restrooms, and the option to request assistance services.

In case of emergency, a medical centre operates at the airport where first aid can be obtained. For business travellers, conference rooms and a business centre are available, allowing meetings to be held without leaving the airport grounds. If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels offering convenient accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal.

At Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB), passengers will find diverse dining options capable of satisfying any taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full meal, you will find a suitable establishment in the terminals. The majority of cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the public area (before security control), but there are also places to refresh yourself in the "secure" departure zone.

For those who wish to have a quick bite and discover local gastronomic hits, visiting one of the numerous cafes is highly recommended. You simply must try the famous Brazilian cheese buns pão de queijo or the appetising chicken croquettes known as coxinha. These snacks pair perfectly with a cup of aromatic Brazilian coffee. Such cafes can be found both in the check-in area and after passport control.

If you have more time to spare, consider the restaurants and the food court. Establishments offering full meals are located in the general area of the airport. Here you can find both à la carte restaurants and popular international fast-food chains. To experience local flavour, look for places serving prato feito — a traditional set meal consisting of rice, beans, salad, and a meat or chicken dish.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarians will easily find suitable options, such as salads, vegetable sandwiches, or the aforementioned pão de queijo. In some cafes, you can order popular and healthy acai bowls. Information regarding gluten-free or vegan dishes is best verified directly with the staff, as the assortment may vary. Most establishments open early in the morning and operate until the last flight departs, while some points in the main area may be open 24 hours. Prices, as in most airports, are slightly higher than in the city, but the selection allows you to find an option for any budget.

To ensure your journey from Afonso Pena International Airport starts smoothly and without unnecessary stress, take advantage of these useful tips. Proper preparation will help save time, money, and nerves.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Brazil, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 3 hours in advance. To avoid queues, use online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or security screening if you are travelling with hand luggage only.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security checkpoints at São José dos Pinhais airport comply with international standards. Remember that all liquids in hand luggage must be in containers no larger than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from your bag for separate scanning. Prepare these items in advance to speed up the process.

Tips for Passengers. When choosing a seat on the plane, study the layout on specialised websites beforehand — this way you can avoid unpleasant surprises, such as seats without a window or with limited legroom. If you have a connecting flight, follow the "Conexão" (Transfer) signs. Immediately after arrival, find information about your next flight and boarding gate number on the flight board.

Customs Control. For passengers on international flights, passing through customs is a mandatory procedure. Have your passport and boarding pass ready in advance. If you are importing goods subject to declaration, fill out the customs declaration form. Be prepared to answer questions from the customs officer regarding the purpose of your trip and the contents of your luggage.

Economy and Comfort. To save money, book your airport transfer in advance via online services or apps — this is often more cost-effective than using taxi services on the spot. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security. This will help avoid unnecessary expenses in the departure zone.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative. Clarify the reason for the delay, the estimated departure time, and ask about your rights to compensation (for example, vouchers for food or drinks). Check the terms of your travel insurance — it may cover such cases. There are cafes and shops in the terminal to help pass the waiting time.