São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governor André Franco Montoro International Airport
Serving as the primary gateway to Brazil, the São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governor André Franco Montoro International Airport (IATA: GRU, ICAO: SBGR) is one of the most critical aviation hubs in South America. Located in Guarulhos, São Paulo, the airport facilitates millions of journeys annually, connecting the economic heart of Brazil with the rest of the world.
Since its opening on January 20, 1985, the airport has evolved from a state-managed facility under Infraero to a privately operated powerhouse managed by GRU Airport since 2012. Today, it serves as a primary hub for Gol Linhas Aéreas and LATAM Brasil, while acting as a focus city for Azul Brazilian Airlines.
Key Facts
- Location: Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Elevation: 750 meters (2,460 ft) above mean sea level (AMSL).
- Primary Hubs: Gol Linhas Aéreas and LATAM Brasil.
- 2025 Traffic: Approximately 47.19 million passengers and 305,188 aircraft operations.
- Runways: Two asphalt runways, the longest measuring 3,700 meters.
- Operator: GRU Airport (since 2012).
Airport Infrastructure and Facilities
Terminals and Layout
The airport is designed to handle massive passenger flows through a series of terminals. Terminal 3, specifically designed for long-haul international flights, represents a significant leap in the airport's capacity and modernization.
The landside areas of Terminal 3 provide streamlined access for departing and arriving passengers, ensuring efficient movement between ground transport and the gates.
Runways and Technical Specifications
To accommodate the world's largest aircraft, including the Airbus A380, GRU maintains two high-capacity asphalt runways:
- Runway 10L/28R: 3,700 meters (12,139 ft)
- Runway 10R/28L: 3,000 meters (9,843 ft)
Global Connectivity and Airlines
GRU is a global crossroads, offering direct flights to major cities across every inhabited continent. The airport hosts a diverse array of international carriers, including Emirates (Dubai), Qatar Airways (Doha), Lufthansa (Frankfurt), and United Airlines (various US hubs).
Passenger Destinations
The airport connects São Paulo to key global destinations such as New York, London, Paris, Madrid, and Tokyo, as well as extensive regional networks within South America, including Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Bogotá.
Cargo Operations
Beyond passengers, GRU is a vital logistics center. Cargo operations are supported by carriers such as Atlas Air and LATAM Cargo Brasil, moving essential goods between Brazil and cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and Manaus.
Ground Transportation and Access
Accessing the airport is facilitated by a combination of road and rail infrastructure. The Hélio Smidt Highway serves as the primary road artery, while the CPTM Line 13 provides rail connectivity.
Passengers can utilize the GRU Airport Train Station and the dedicated Metro station to navigate the city and the airport perimeter.
Operational Statistics
The airport has shown a strong recovery and growth trend in recent years. By 2025, passenger numbers reached over 47 million, reflecting an 8% increase over the previous year.
| Year | Passengers | Aircraft Operations | Growth (Passengers) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 47,188,085 | 305,188 | 8% |
| 2024 | 43,580,962 | 288,063 | 6% |
| 2023 | 41,307,915 | 274,917 | 20% |
| 2022 | 34,480,706 | 242,881 | 43% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines use GRU as a primary hub?
Gol Linhas Aéreas and LATAM Brasil both utilize São Paulo/Guarulhos as a primary hub for their operations.
What is the elevation of the airport?
The airport is situated at an elevation of 750 meters (2,460 ft) above mean sea level.
How can I get to the airport via public transport?
Passengers can use the CPTM Line 13 train service, the Airport Metro Station, or various bus services provided by EMTU.
Does the airport support the Airbus A380?
Yes, GRU Airport obtained authorization to operate the Airbus A380 in October 2015.
Who currently operates the airport?
The airport has been operated by GRU Airport since 2012, taking over from the state-owned Infraero.