Foz do Iguaçu Airport Expands Terminal and Runway to Boost International Connections
The Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) concluded phase 1B of its ambitious expansion project, adding 5,000 m² to its terminal, modernizing its facilities, and extending the runway to accommodate larger aircraft. With an investment of over R$ 390 million, the airport strengthens its role as a regional hub for tourism and business
The Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) completed phase 1B of its expansion project on January 21, marking a significant milestone in its development. The works, led by concessionaire CCR Aeroportos, represented an investment of over R$ 390 million, financed by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES).
The event was attended by the governor of Paraná, Carlos Massa Ratinho Junior; the minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho; the mayor of Foz do Iguaçu, General Joaquim Silva e Luna; and other authorities, highlighting the project's regional and national importance.
According to a statement cited by Aeroin, the airport's passenger terminal was expanded by 5,000 m², integrating new areas and services designed to enhance the user experience. The main improvements include the following:
• A renovated check-in area with more than 30 counters and automated baggage claim systems.
• A new international boarding lounge, connected via jet bridges.
• A 700 m² expansion of the domestic boarding lounge.
• Three new aircraft parking platforms, now accommodating 13 category C aircraft, typically used in commercial aviation.
• Updated runway safety areas (RESA) to comply with current international standards.
• The construction of a new cargo terminal to boost logistics operations.
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Additionally, the main runway is undergoing an extension from 2,194 meters to 2,858 meters, a project expected to be operational by April 2025. This extension will allow the airport to receive larger aircraft, facilitating new international flights and cargo operations, unlocking business opportunities.
“Both the terminal and runway expansions create a wide range of business possibilities, from attracting flights with larger aircraft to offering new services at the airport,” emphasized Fabio Russo, general director of CCR Aeroportos.
Project impact and passenger growth
Despite ongoing construction, the airport registered over 2 million passengers in 2024, reaffirming its position as one of Brazil's three busiest airports outside capital cities. The expansion also introduced new commercial areas, such as restaurants, fast-food outlets, souvenir shops, and tourism promotion points.
An additional R$ 20 million investment from CCR Aeroportos has been allocated to complete the runway extension.
Terminal manager Wander Melo Jr. highlighted the challenges and teamwork required to execute the project: “Carrying out the works while keeping the terminal operational was one of our biggest challenges. Every team gave their best to ensure the success of this project, which we are incredibly proud of,” he said.
Expanding the network of destinations
The airport serves four airlines, connecting to nine domestic destinations and one international route, offering up to 169 weekly flights in high season and 126 flights per week during most of the year:
• Azul Linhas Aéreas: Belo Horizonte/Confins, Campinas/Viracopos, and Curitiba. Seasonal destinations: Florianópolis, Maceió, and Recife.
• GOL: Rio de Janeiro/Galeão, São Paulo/Congonhas, and São Paulo/Guarulhos.
• JetSMART: Santiago, Chile.
• LATAM: Curitiba, Rio de Janeiro/Galeão, São Paulo/Congonhas, and São Paulo/Guarulhos.
The expansion project positions the Foz do Iguaçu International Airport as a growing regional hub for tourism and business travel.
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