Aeropuerto de Santos Dumont Regional (SDU)

Santos Dumont Regional Airport (IATA: SDU, ICAO: SBRJ) is a pivotal aviation hub located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Established in 1936, the airport owes its name to the Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos Dumont. It primarily serves as a domestic airport, and its strategic location near the city's downtown makes it highly accessible for both business and leisure travelers.

Nestled in the Guanabara Bay area, Santos Dumont offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer during takeoffs and landings. Its proximity to key urban centers further establishes it as an essential component of Rio de Janeiro's transport infrastructure.

While compact compared to international standards, Santos Dumont is remarkably busy. It manages approximately 200 flights daily and handles around 8 million passengers annually. The airport is a critical connector for domestic routes, particularly shuttles between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, which are among the busiest air routes in the world.

Several airlines operate at Santos Dumont, including major Brazilian carriers like LATAM, Gol Airlines, and Azul Brazilian Airlines. Despite its focus on domestic travel, the airport's efficiency and strategic location make it a crucial node in Brazil's aviation network. With modern facilities and frequent services, Santos Dumont Regional Airport continues to be a vital gateway for those traveling to and from Rio de Janeiro.