Brazil reports record passenger numbers for domestic and international flights

Brazil has achieved record-breaking numbers in air passenger traffic for both domestic and international flights during the first five months of 2026. The surge in travel is driven by a robust recovery in tourism and business demand, according to government data.

From January to May, 42 million passengers traveled on domestic flights, a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2025. This marks the first time Brazil has exceeded 42 million passengers in the first five months of any year since comparable records began. May alone saw 8.31 million domestic travelers, the highest figure for that month since 2000.

International travel also experienced significant expansion. Between January and May, 12.8 million passengers flew between Brazil and other countries, a 10% rise from the previous year. In May, international traffic reached 2.23 million passengers, a 5% increase compared to May 2025.

The Ministry of Tourism attributes these impressive results to enhanced air connectivity and growing demand for travel within and outside the country. Minister Gustavo Feliciano highlighted that the figures reflect the dynamism of Brazil's tourism sector and the effectiveness of policies aimed at expanding routes and stimulating travel. These numbers reinforce the recovery and growth of Brazil's commercial aviation industry.

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The figures reflect the dynamism of the Brazilian tourism sector and the impact of policies aimed at expanding the offer of routes and stimulating travel.