Congonhas Airport undergoes operational tests and new slot regulations

Congonhas Airport in São Paulo has begun operational testing of its new apron, a project exceeding 200,000 square meters as part of a broader modernization program. Managed by Aena Brasil, the tests involve night-time simulations with Azul aircraft to validate parking positions, pushback maneuvers, and ground flows. The full delivery of the modernized airport is projected for June 2028.

Simultaneously, the National Civil Aviation Agency (Anac) has implemented new rules for takeoff and landing slots at the terminal to combat a parallel market and improve competitiveness. Under the new regulations, general aviation operators must secure a fixed-base service provider for parking, cleaning, and security before requesting operational slots. These measures aim to ensure ground support availability and organized infrastructure management within the airport's limited 17-hour daily operating window.