🧭 Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG) Terminals
RIOgaleão International Airport (GIG) has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Currently, Terminal 2 handles almost all commercial operations for domestic and international flights. Both are connected by a covered walkway with moving walkways, allowing transit on foot in approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Passenger experience highlights that the infrastructure is spacious and functional, although there are opportunities for improvement in internal signage and the availability of services during late-night hours.
FAQs about Terminals at GIG
How do I know which terminal my flight departs from?
Most flights operate from Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is closed to the general public for flight operations. Always check the real-time flight board for Departures and Arrivals.
Are the terminals connected?
Yes. You can walk between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 via a covered walkway with moving walkways. Keep in mind that if you are staying at the hotel in T1, the walk to the T2 check-in can take about 15 minutes.
Which one has better facilities?
Terminal 2 has been recently renovated and is the one that houses most of the services, shops, and VIP lounges. However, users warn that it is so large that it requires a lot of walking.
Critical Points: What maps don’t tell you
The “Desert” of Sector A
If your flight departs from the gates in Sector A, be alert. Unlike the rest of Terminal 2, this area has very limited commercial offerings.
User Experience: Several travelers have reported (December 2025) having to walk more than 10 minutes to this zone, only to discover there was nowhere to buy water or food, or that the shops closed very early, forcing them to backtrack the long way to get supplies.
Strategy: Buy your water and snacks in the central area of the terminal (near Duty Free) before heading to the Sector A gates, especially if traveling with children or the elderly.
Temperature and Connectivity
The infrastructure presents two constant challenges according to recent reviews: the cold and the lack of power.
User Experience: There is a strong thermal contrast; while it is hot outside, the air conditioning in the boarding gate area is usually very strong (“freezing level”). Additionally, finding a working outlet is an odyssey; many charging stations are broken.
Strategy: Always carry a light jacket in your carry-on luggage and make sure to travel with a charged portable battery (power bank), as you cannot rely on public outlets.
Terminal 2. AI-generated image
Terminal 1 – Limited Access and Complementary Use
- Operation: No commercial flights are conducted. It is used for the Rio Aeroporto Hotel, Federal Police (passport issuance), and administrative offices.
- Access: Via a walkway from Terminal 2. Users report poor signage and little activity in this area.
- Experience: It is perceived as an outdated and dimly lit space. Circulating through this terminal is not recommended unless specifically necessary.
Terminal 2 – Main Passenger Terminal
- Operation: All domestic and international flights.
- Layout by levels:
- Floor 0: Arrivals, immigration, baggage claim.
- Floor 1: Restaurants, cafes, shops, basic services, VIP lounges.
- Floor 2: Check-in, security control, and boarding.
- Featured Services:
- Wide variety of dining options and shops, although with high prices.
- VIP lounges with access via programs like Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and DragonPass.
- Free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs, and direct public transport.
- Passenger Experience:
- Good general organization and cleanliness.
- Clear signage but could be improved at strategic points.
- Long internal distances: arriving with sufficient time is recommended.
- Some limited late-night services.
- Hotel: The Rio Aeroporto Hotel is located in Terminal 1, ideal for those with overnight layovers or early morning flights. See more.
User Experience: Although Terminal 2 is modern, walks from security control to the furthest gates can take between 15 and 20 minutes. Moving walkways help, but they are sometimes under maintenance. Plan your time considering these distances.
Quick Terminal Comparison
| Features | Terminal 1 | Terminal 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Operation Type | Does not operate commercial flights | Domestic and international flights |
| Connectivity | Connected by walkway from T2 | Direct access from public transport |
| Available Services | Hotel, police, offices | Check-in, immigration, shops, dining |
| Ambiance | Outdated and uncrowded | Modern, spacious, and functional |
| Recommended for | Passengers with hotel reservations | All types of flights and services |
Practical Tip
If you are taking a flight from GIG, plan your arrival in advance, especially if traveling with elderly people, children, or bulky luggage. Terminal 2 is vast, with long stretches to the boarding gates.
It is not necessary to go to Terminal 1 unless you are staying at the hotel or need to complete a specific procedure. For updated information on flights and services, visit the official terminal guide.