Curitiba–Afonso Pena International Airport
Curitiba–Afonso Pena International Airport (IATA: CWB, ICAO: SBCT) serves as the primary aviation hub for Curitiba, the capital of the state of Paraná. Located in the municipality of São José dos Pinhais, the airport is a vital link for both domestic and international travel in southern Brazil. Since July 15, 1985, it has been named in honor of Afonso Augusto Moreira Pena, the 6th President of Brazil.
The airport is currently operated by Motiva, though it has undergone several management transitions, including a long period under Infraero and a recent acquisition process involving the Mexican operator ASUR.
Key Facts
- Location: São José dos Pinhais, Brazil.
- Opened: January 24, 1946.
- Elevation: 911 meters (2,989 ft) above mean sea level.
- Focus City: A key hub for Azul Brazilian Airlines.
- Capacity: The terminal can handle up to 15 million passengers annually.
- Infrastructure: Features 14 jetways and a shopping mall with 60 stores.
History and Evolution
The airport's origins date back to the Second World War, when it was constructed by the Brazilian Air Force Ministry in partnership with the United States Army. While intended for strategic coastal placement, it saw little military action as construction finished in 1945. It officially opened as a civil airport on January 24, 1946.
The facility has expanded significantly over the decades. The original terminal served until 1959, followed by a second terminal that operated until 1996. The current, much larger terminal opened in 1996, allowing the previous structure to be repurposed as a cargo terminal.
In preparation for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Infraero implemented a BRL 30 million investment plan. This project expanded the apron and improved taxiways to accommodate the surge in visitors. To address cargo bottlenecks, the main runway was lengthened in 2008, and the cargo terminal received significant upgrades.
Operational Challenges
The region is known for unstable weather, specifically morning fog and smog during winter, which can impact flight schedules. To mitigate this, there are plans to upgrade the main runway (15/33) from an Instrument Landing System (ILS) Category II to Category III, which allows aircraft to land in lower visibility conditions.
Airport Infrastructure and Statistics
The airport operates two asphalt runways. The primary runway (15/33) is 2,218 meters long, while the auxiliary runway (11/29) measures 1,798 meters. The passenger terminal spans 45,000 square meters and includes a small museum and a playcenter.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| IATA / ICAO Codes | CWB / SBCT |
| Main Runway (15/33) | 2,218m (Asphalt) |
| Auxiliary Runway (11/29) | 1,798m (Asphalt) |
| 2025 Passenger Volume | 6,082,222 |
| 2025 Aircraft Operations | 62,453 |
| Parking Capacity | 800 spaces |
Airlines and Destinations
The airport hosts a diverse range of carriers, with Azul Brazilian Airlines utilizing the city as a focus city. Passenger services connect Curitiba to major Brazilian cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, as well as international destinations including Buenos Aires, Santiago, Lima, and Lisbon.
Cargo operations are equally robust, with carriers such as Lufthansa Cargo, Cargolux, and LATAM Cargo Brasil connecting the region to global hubs like Frankfurt, Luxembourg, and Miami.
Access and Transportation
Located approximately 18 km (11 mi) southeast of downtown Curitiba, the airport is accessible via a dedicated shuttle bus service and the public 208 bus route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently operates the airport?
The airport is operated by Motiva, which took over the concession from Infraero. However, a sale of Motiva's portfolio to the Mexican operator ASUR was announced in November 2025, pending government approval.
What are the main weather challenges at CWB?
The airport frequently deals with fog and smog, particularly during winter mornings, which can affect visibility and flight operations.
How many passengers does the airport handle?
In 2025, the airport recorded 6,082,222 passengers, representing a 17% increase over the previous year.
What facilities are available inside the terminal?
The terminal features a shopping mall with 60 stores, a small museum, a playcenter, and 14 jetways for passenger boarding.
Which international airlines serve Curitiba?
International service is provided by airlines such as TAP Air Portugal (to Lisbon), LATAM (to Chile and Peru), and Aerolíneas Argentinas (to Buenos Aires).