Considering a trip through time, RIOgaleão-Tom Jobim International Airport stands as a testament to Brazil’s aviation history. This airport is more than just a place to catch a flight. It’s a landmark with a rich story.
RIOgaleão, as it’s also known, is the main international airport serving Rio de Janeiro. It proudly carries the IATA code GIG. It is also Brazil’s second-busiest international airport. The airport’s story began long before the modern terminals we see today.
In 1923, a School of Naval Aviation was established near Galeão beach on Governador Island. This marked the humble beginnings of what would become a major international hub. By 1941, the school evolved into the Galeão Air Force Base. A terminal and hangars were constructed. The runway was extended. These original buildings still stand. The Galeão Air Force Base remains active to this day.
During World War II, RIOgaleão played a crucial role. When Brazil declared war against the Axis in 1942, the aerodrome became a vital base for Allied military operations. After the war, Santos Dumont Airport couldn’t handle the increasing number of international flights. International flights gradually shifted to the Air Force Base.
Recognizing the need for better facilities, a new passenger terminal was built. It was located opposite the Air Force Base across the runway. On February 1, 1952, the new passenger terminal opened. It served passengers until 1977. Today, this terminal is used for passenger flights operated by the Brazilian Air Force. The cargo terminal is also in this area. The complex is known as the “old Galeão”.
RIOgaleão became Brazil’s major international and domestic air hub in the early 1970s. The Concorde’s scheduled maiden flight with Air France touched down here in 1976. It flew from Paris to Galeão via Dakar. The James Bond film Moonraker even featured the Concorde landing at Galeão.
In 1977, a new terminal opened. It is now known as Passenger Terminal 1. Iris Lettieri’s sultry PA system announcements became a distinctive feature. By 1985, RIOgaleão lost its title as the country’s major international airport to São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport.
Passenger Terminal 1 underwent a major renovation in 1991 for the United Nations Earth Summit. Passenger Terminal 2 opened in 1999. Each terminal can handle 7.5 million passengers annually.
In preparation for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics, RIOgaleão received significant upgrades. Both terminals were renovated. Additional parking was added.
Since 2014, RIOgaleão has been operated by a concessionary. This is a consortium formed by Brazilian investor Odebrecht and Changi Airport Group. The new concessionary uses the brand name RIOgaleão–Aeroporto Internacional Tom Jobim.
RIOgaleão covers a vast area of 1,788.2 hectares. This makes it the largest airport site in Brazil. As you explore RIOgaleão, remember its history. This airport has evolved from a naval aviation school to a vital international gateway.