tips for flying in brazil gary yim gary © Andresr © Thiago Leite ©
tips for
Shutterstock.com FLYING IN BRAZIL © 2nd Edition INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Brazil! ABEAR is an association which represents the most important airlines operating in the country. Through its initiatives, ABEAR aims to encourage the development of the Brazilian aviation sector and in so doing to directly benefit passengers. This guide offers useful tips for foreigners traveling in Brazil – from the moment you begin to plan the trip and buy the ticket through to internal travel and your arrival in the destination cities. The following pages are full of detailed and easy-to-access information, designed to make your stay in the country even more enjoyable.
Enjoy your flight!
FOUNDERS
MEMBERS
ABEAR would like to thank our technical consultant, Adalberto Febeliano and 2 the airline staff who have collaborated on the creation of this guide. tips for flying in brazil
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW...
WHEN YOU BUY THE TICKET 5 PREPARING FOR THE TRIP 10 AFTER LANDING 23 DURING YOUR STAY IN BRAZIL 28 ACCESSIBILITY 46 USEFUL LINKS AND CONTACTS 55
WHEN YOU BUY 5 © Andresr / Shutterstock.com © THE TICKET tips for flying in brazil
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN BRAZIL HOLIDAYS • School Holidays: Summer holidays begin in the second fortnight of December, continue through January and finish in the first fortnight of February. Winter holidays are in July. to agos AIR TICKETS • Extended Public Holidays: The number of people traveling tends to increase the day before a holiday break as well as the first and last days of the break. Be aware of the principal holidays in Brazil:
I PLAN TO VISIT SEVERAL CITIES IN BRAZIL. HOW New Year’s Day January 1st. During the days leading up New 1 CAN I SAVE ON TICKETS? Year’s Day there is a lot of air travel, in particular to coastal areas. Brazil is a country with the dimensions of a continent. In order to Carnival The longest public holiday in Brazil, Carnival visit different places during the same trip, some internal air travel extends for five days, from Saturday to will be necessary. Depending on the number of flights anticipated, Wednesday but many travelers extend the break it may be possible to save money with the use of an airpass. This to ten days, from the previous Friday right up until the Sunday following Carnival. The actual is a multiple flight pass which is sold only to foreigners or non- date varies from year to year but it always begins Brazilian residents and which is linked to an international flight on the Saturday 50 days before Easter Sunday. to Brazil (or to other South American countries in the case where Easter The holiday lasts for three days, from Good the airpass covers other cities on the continent). Here’s how it Friday to Easter Sunday. The date varies but falls somewhere between March 22nd and April 25th. works: You pay a fixed amount for a fixed number of destinations; Tiradentes April 21st. usually a minimum of four up to a maximum of nine. Depending st on the specific airpass, you have a period of 30 to 90 days to use Labor Day May 1 . it. The flight dates are flexible, but the whole itinerary must be Corpus Christi This public holiday is on a Thursday, sixty days after Easter Sunday. confirmed before departure. Note: Only travel agencies abroad can sell theseagosto passes and there are no discounts for children. For Independence Day, Brazil September 7th. more information BROL e GOL. Our Lady of Aparecida/ October 12th. Also known as “semana do saco Children’s Day cheio” (“Fed-up Week”) when many schools and universities have a week’s break. It’s a week full of 2 HOW CAN I PAY LESS FOR DOMESTIC FLIGHTS? school excursions and graduation travel. To purchase cheaper domestic flights,the golden rule is Finados (Day of the Dead) November 2nd. to avoid the high season. However if you have to fly during peak Proclamation of the Republic November 15th. periods, buy your tickets several months in advance, choose less Christmas December 25th.Christmasisthemostimportant popular days – usually Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and in the holiday in the country and is accompanied by a middle of holiday periods – and try to fly late at night, early in very large number of travelers during the holiday 6 the morning or between 10 am and 4 pm. and in the subsequent days. 7 when you buy the ticket tips for flying in brazil
WHAT TAXES AND FEES APPLY ON DOMESTIC WHAT ARE THE GUIDELINES FOR EXPECTANT MOTHERS? 3 FLIGHTS IN BRAZIL? 5 Pregnant women can travel by air but they should first consult When the ticket is bought, you will pay the total of the ticket plus a with both their doctor and the airline. If air travel is authorized, departure tax which is applied for the terminal usage and for airport a pregnant woman will need to fill in and sign a Statement of administration. This tax varies from airport to airport and can also Responsibility form at the time of check-in. The rules are not differ based on whether the flight is international or domestic. standardized among the airlines, but in general, from the 28th week of pregnancy, the doctor’s statement authorizing the trip is SPECIAL NEEDS necessary. The doctor’s statement (issued up to seven days before the flight) must include the origin and destination of the trip, flight dates, WHAT TO DO IN THE CASE OF A MEDICAL maximum flight duration allowed, the baby’s due date, gestational 4 RESTRICTION? age and the doctor’s medical evaluation. From the 36th week, it may If the passenger has a restrictive medical condition, consultation with be necessary to present the MEDIF form 48 hours in advance for a medical practitioner before planning air travel is recommended. the airlines’ analysis (the MEDIF form is available on the airlines’ This is the case for people with serious cardiac deficiency or websites; see more details on page 48). When the pregnancy is at respiratory problems, those in a post-operative period or passengers an advanced stage, the pregnant woman must be accompanied by who have recently suffered a heart attack or fracture. In the airplane, the doctor responsible (the period to which this rule applies varies the pilot is responsible for the wellbeing of the passengers and can by company). And, from the 39th week, flying is not usually allowed. therefore deny boarding to anyone deemed to present a risk, for After the birth, mother and baby may travel from the 8th day on. example in the case of contagious disease. To prevent issues, the passenger must send to the company, up to 48 hours before the flight, WARNING: On domestic flights, the airlines can require a certified the MEDIF form (sees details on page 48) medical evaluation issued in Portuguese and signed by a Brazilian or a signed, complete doctor’s statement doctor. Check with the airline beforehand. Please note: guidelines (ideally in English, Portuguese or Spanish). are more strict in the case of multiple pregnancy (more than one The doctor’s statement (issued up to seven baby) or where there are complications. days before the flight) must include origin and destination of the trip, flight dates, maximum flight time allowed and the doctor’s medical opinion. When presenting SPECIAL NEEDS Passengers needing to request special assistance, like those with a this at check-in, having two copies is disability, must inform the airline at least 48 hours in advance. There recommended, as there have been cases in is more information available on page 47. 8 which the airline needed to retain a copy. 9 tips for flying in brazil
DOCUMENTS
WHICH DOCUMENTS 6 WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ENTRANCE INTO BRAZIL? Tourists from all countries are welcome in Brazil; however Brazil applies the principle of reciprocity in its visa requirements. If a country places restrictions or entrance requirements on a Brazilian citizen, the same conditions will be applied to citizens of that country entering Brazil. Please refer to the following visa and document requirements for each nationality*.
7 I WISH TO TRAVEL NOT ONLY TO BRAZIL, BUT ALSO TO OTHER MERCOSUR COUNTRIES. DO THE SAME REQUIREMENTS APPLY? No. Although South America is made up of almost exclusively Mercosur countries (members or associates) there is no unified visa requirement. For example, U.S. citizens, Australians, Canadians and Japanese need visas to enter Brazil, but do not need visas for most other South American countries. Some countries do not require a visa, but they charge a reciprocity fee which must be paid before the passenger checks in - before travelling, check the policy for PREPARING FOR each destination. © Andrzej © Andrzej Kubik/Shutterstock.com *This information is subject to change; please check the most recent information from the Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs (Itamaraty) or with the Brazilian embassy or 11 THE TRIP consulate in your country. preparing for the trip tips for flying in brazil
I AM A FOREIGNER WHO NORMALLY RESIDES IN A 8 Require a visa MERCOSUR COUNTRY (MEMBER OR ASSOCIATE MEMBER). documents Afganistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO TRAVEL TO BRAZIL? Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, If Brazil requires no visa for your nationality (check details below and Botswana, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, on the next page), you simply present the identity document issued to Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Cook Islands, you by the foreign authority of your country of residence in Mercosur Congo, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican – no passport is required. Otherwise, you must use the passport of Republic, East Timor, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, your nationality with the appropriate visa. For example, American, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Australian, Canadian and Japanese residents in Argentina need a India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, passport and visa to enter Brazil. Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Source: Mercosur Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North DO NOT REQUIRE A VISA Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestinian Authority, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the 5 Only need to present identity document – members and associates of Grenadines, Samoa, São Tomé and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Mercosur: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Equador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay Leone, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, (permitted to stay for up to 90 days) and Venezuela (permitted to stay for Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu Islands, Uganda, d OCUMENTS up to 60 days). United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, 5 Only need to present passport: Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe. Permitted to stay for up to 30 days: Singapore. Permitted to stay for up to 90 days: Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia, Costa REQUIRE A “LAISSEZ-PASSER” Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Liechtenstein, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Countries with which Brazil does not have diplomatic relations: Kosovo, Monaco, Morocco, Namibia, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, Taiwan. Portugal, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, South Africa, South Korea, Suriname, Source: Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs (Ministério das Relações Exteriores – Itamaraty) Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City. PASSPORT VALIDITY Maximum stay 90 days per 180 day period: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Note: For entry into Brazil your passport must be valid for at least six Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, months from the date of entry into the country. If you have a visa in an Holland, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Romania, expired passport or one expiring within six months, you should submit both the passport with the visa and a new passport with the required validity. Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden. 12 13 preparing for the trip tips for flying in brazil
WHAT CONDITIONS APPLY TO A MINOR WHO ARRIVES CROSSING LAND BORDERS 10 Passengers who are crossing land borders, should ensure that their passports IN BRAZIL ACCOMPANIED BY ONLY ONE PARENT OR are stamped when they exit Brazil. For example, at the Iguazu Falls border, ACCOMPANIED BY A PERSON WHO IS NOT THE CHILD’S it can happen that visitors do not receive an exit stamp and then encounter problems when re-entering Brazil. LEGAL GUARDIAN?
Source: Mercosur It is essential to adhere to the rules governing the minor’s departure from the country of origin accompanied by only one parent or by another adult. The general rule is that before leaving your country CHILDREN of origin, you must present to Immigration a notarized authorization to travel, signed by the absent parent or in the case where the WHAT CONDITIONS APPLY TO CHILDREN UNDER 18 WHO 9 minor is accompanied by an adult who is neither a parent nor legal FLY UNACCOMPANIED TO BRAZIL? guardian, the authorization must be signed by both parents or the Firstly, it is essential to adhere to the rules governing the minor’s child’s legal guardian (see page 16). This documentation will also departure from the country of origin. Generally, before traveling, be necessary for unaccompanied minors under 12 years of age on you must present a notarized authorization to travel, signed by both Brazilian domestic flights. Adolescents of 12 to 17 years of age can parents or by the legal guardian (see page 16). This documentation travel alone without authorization on Brazilian domestic flights. To will also be necessary for unaccompanied minors under 12 years of present this documentation to the Brazilian authorities upon arrival age on Brazilian domestic flights. Adolescents of 12 to 17 years of age in Brazil, it must be legalized by a Brazilian consulate before the can travel alone without authorization on Brazilian domestic flights. trip - the consulate also will provide information on the possible To present this documentation to the need for a sworn translation of the document.Normally, this is not Brazilian authorities upon arrival in required in the case of languages commonly used by Brazilian Brazil, it must be legalized by a Brazilian airlines. These are Spanish and English. In case of questions, contact consulate before the trip - the consulate the airline or consult the site of the Brazilian Consular Portal. also will provide information on the possible need for a sworn translation of the document.Normally, this is not required in the case of languages CHILDREN UNDER 12 commonly used by Brazilian airlines. As a general rule, airlines do not permit children under five to travel These are Spanish and English. In unaccompanied on international flights. The person responsible for case of questions, contact the airline the child should check the rules of the specific airline with whom the child will fly. Some overseas airlines will not accept a child under 12 or consult the site of the Brazilian without the presence of the child’s parent or legal guardian. 14 Consular Portal. 15 preparing for the trip tips for flying in brazil
HEALTH Child Travel Consent form DO I NEED TO HAVE VACCINATIONS MINISTÉRIO DAS RELAÇÕES EXTERIORES 11 AUTORIZAÇÃO DE VIAGEM PARA O EXTERIOR DE MENOR BRASILEIRO BEFORE ENTERING BRAZIL? Resolução CNJ nº 131, de 26/05/2011. PARA MENOR SOMENTE NA COMPANHIA DO PAI, MÃE OU Brazil does not require foreigners arriving in the country to carry an FOTO Photo FORDE TERCEIROMINOR ACCOMPANIED MAIOR E BYCAPAZ/ HIS/HER/FATHER/MOTHER For minor accompanied OR BY by PHOTO (OPCIONAL LEGALLYhis/her/father/mother ABLE THIRD PERSON or by legally able third person. (Optional) International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis. However, preparing Optional) PRAZOexpiry DE date VALIDADE: ______: ______for an overeas trip offers an ideal opportunity to check the validity of
AUTHORIZATION SeIf undefined, não definido, valid a validade for 2 years será de 2 (dois) anos/If undefined, valid for 2 years. your routine vaccinations – tetanus, diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella I Autorizo(amos)(we) authorize o(a) menor the I(we)minor authorize the minor ______/______nome completo full name nº do passaporte passport nr. (German measles), polio, haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) and
full______, name ____/_____/______sexo______natural de______passport nr. ___ órgão expedidor issuing authority data de expedição date of issue sex born in cidade e país city and country hepatitis B. The only exception is vaccination against yellow fever. Since sex born in issuingnascido(a) authority em date of birth _____/______/______date of issue viajar para o Brasil, dentro do território brasileiro,city and e acountry viajar do Brasil com destino 1942, Brazil has not had any cases of yellow fever in the cities but there ao exterior. to travel to Brazil, to travel within Brazil and to travel abroad from Brazil
datena companhia of birth do(a)(e) in company of: to� PAItravel father to � Brazil, MÃE mother to travel� TERCEIRO within MAIOR Brazil E andCAPAZ to, thirdtravel person, abroad adult and are some regions where selvatic yellow fever is endemic. Vaccination legaly able abaixo identificado (a) identified bellow: against yellow fever is recommended for travelers over the age of 6 from______Brazil in company of father ______/______/______mother third person, adult and______legaly able nome completo full name nacionalidade nationality estado civil marital status months who will be visiting forest areas or engaging in rural activities or identifiedresidente em address bellow:______cidade city______país country______
carteira de identidade ID card / passaporte no. passport nr.______emitido(a) por issued by ______ecotourism in the regions listed below. The vaccination should be done at full name nationality marital status data de expedição date of issue____/______/______. least 10 days before visiting a yellow fever area and is valid for 10 years. address1 � PAI Father � TUTOR Tutor � GUARDIÃO Guardiancity 2 � MÃE Mother � TUTORAcountry Tutor � GUARDIÃ Guardian The US government recommends that its citizens also be vaccinated ______IDNome card/Passport Name nr. Nome Name issued by against hepatitus A, hepatitus B and typhoid fever. ______dateEndereço of Address issue Endereço Address Source: Brazilian Ministry of Health (Ministério da Saúde) and US Department ______Documento de Identidade ID card/Passaporte nº Passport nr. Documento de Identidade ID card/Passaporte nº Passport nr. of State. ______1 Father Tutor Guardian______2 Mother Tutor Guardian_____ Órgão expedidor Issuing authority Órgão expedidor Issuing authority
Local Place:______, em date ______/______/______Local Place:______, em date ______/______/______Name Name ______Rural and forest areas which present a risk of yellow Assinatura Assinatura Address Address Yellow Fever RECONHECIMENTO DE FIRMA signature authentication RECONHECIMENTO DE FIRMA signature authentication (por autenticidade ou por semelhança by authenticy or similarity-§ 1º artigo 8º) (por autenticidade ou por semelhança by authenticy or similarity-§ 1º artigo 8º ID card/Passport nr. ID card/Passport nr. All states of the northern region (Acre, Amazonas, Pará, Rondônia, Roraima,
Tocantins), all states of the central western region (Distrito Federal, Goiás, Mato fever Issuing authority Issuing authority Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul), Maranhão, Minas Gerais, the southeast of Piauí, Place , date Place , date the west of Bahia, the west of Paraná, the west of Santa Catarina, the northeast of Rio Grande de Sul and the northeast of São Paulo. Note: Vaccination is not Signature Signature necessary if your itinerary does not include these areas, for example if you are traveling only in Fortaleza, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and São Paulo. SIGNATURE authentication SIGNATURE authentication Source: Brazilian Ministry of Health (Ministério da Saúde) 16 by authenticy or similarity by authenticy or similarity 17 preparing for the trip tips for flying in brazil
What is the situation with malaria in Brazil? On International Flights 12 In Brazil the risk of malaria infection is limited to the To pick up the cat or dog in Brazil, the following documents are required: Amazon region which includes the following states: Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, the west of Maranhão, the north of Mato Grosso, 5 International Animal Health Certificate, in Brazil a CZI or Pará, Rondônia, Roraima and Tocantins. There exists no effective “Certificado Zoossanitário Internacional”. This document guarantees vaccine against the disease. The vector (or carrier) mosquitoes are that the animal is healthy enough to travel. It is important to check most active between sunset and sunrise. To avoid exposure it is the necessary procedure with the Brazilian consulate in your home recommended that travelers wear light- colored clothing with long country as procedures can differ from one country to another. sleeves and long pants and use mosquito repellant on exposed This certificate is generally issued by a veterinary doctor of the areas. You should also look out for symptoms like fever, aching Ministry of Agriculture of your country of residence or else issued body or headaches and should seek medical attention as soon as by any veterinarian and then approved by the relevant government p o s s i b l e , i d e a l l y w i t h i n 4 8 h o u r s o f t h e fi r s t s y m p t o m . authority. It is essential to plan this well, since the certificate is valid Source: Brazilian Ministry of Health (Ministério da Saúde) and US for a very short period – only 10 days from date of issue to pick up Department of State. in Brazil.
5 Proof of vaccination. Cats and dogs over the age of three months must have been vaccinated against rabies between 30 days and one year of the date of departure. The vaccination receipt must contain the vaccine label and include the name of the laboratory who produced it, the type of vaccine and the batch number. ANIMALS Important: You should also check the regulations in the country of origin to ensure that the animal will be permitted re-entry upon its return. What requirements are there when entering 13 Brazil with household pets? on domestic flights Cats and dogs from other countries are accepted in Brazil but it is For flights in Brazil, airlines ask for proof of vaccination and a valid important to plan ahead if bringing them. A veterinarian should be certificate of health issued by a veterinarian. It is important to check consulted in the home country beforehand. The following are the well in advance the specific regulations of each airline and also to requirements for the transport of domestic cats and dogs as laid out be aware that transport of domestic animals is not possible on some by the Brazilian authorities and the airlines. Other pets including models of aircraft. For more information on the animal transport domestic birds require an importation permit from the Brazilian guide (GTA), required for transporting animals other than dogs and 18 Ministry of Agriculture (Ministério da Agricultura). cats: Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture (Ministério da Agricultura). 19 preparing for the trip tips for flying in brazil
5 The NORTHERN AND NORTHEASTERN: regions are warm all Regulations concerning the air transport of animals year round with daytime temperatures varying from 20˚C to 30˚C (68°F Restrictions may vary considerably from one airline to another but in general: to 86°F). On the Northeast coast rain is concentrated between April and 5 The booking must be made in advance and is subject to confirmation. July. In the Amazon region humidity is very high and this increases the
animals 5 The airline charges for the transport of the animal. 5 The number of animals per flight is limited. sensation of heat. The interior of the Northeast has low humidity. 5 The animal must be clean and have no unpleasant odour. 5 In the SOUTHEAST AND CENTRAL WESTERN* regions the 5 The animal must be in a cage, supplied by the passenger and appropriate climates vary. In coastal areas like Rio de Janeiro, summer is humid and for the transport of the animal. quite hot with maximums over 30ºC (86°F). In winter the temperature is 5 Only small animals are permitted inside the cabin, inside a cage and upon payment of a fee. Larger animals must be sent with the baggage. more moderate with cool nights. In cities of the interior at higher altitude 5 There are some restrictions on the age of the animal and on certain like São Paulo, Belo Horizonte and Brasilia summer is humid and fairly breeds: many companies do no transport dogs with short snouts, as they are warm with minimums of about 20ºC (68°F) and maximums under 30ºC more susceptible to variations in temperature and ventilation. (86°F). The winters there are cool and dry with minimum temperatures Guide dogs Read about the transport of guide dogs on page 53. down to 10ºC (50°F). While temperatures do not drop to extreme levels, you should still be prepared for the cold since most buildings have Source: Airline companies associated with ABEAR and the Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs (Ministério das Relações Exteriores – Itamaraty) neither good heating nor insulation. 5 The SOUTHERN REGION has hot summers and quite cold winters. In the mountainous areas like Curitiba, minimum temperatures can fall below 0ºC (32°F). Even in these cooler areas it is rare to find buildings with central heating or adequate insulation. *Read more about the weather in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo on page 31.
WHAT ITEMS CANNOT BE BROUGHT INTO BRAZIL? BAGGAGE 15 Individuals cannot import into Brazil goods for commercial or industrial use. In addition to this, the following items are not What kind of clothes should I pack for a trip permitted to enter the country: 14 to different Brazilian cities? 5 Cigarettes and alcohol produced in Brazil for sale exclusively Generally speaking you should pack light clothing for most trips to outside the country. Brazil. However, given the size of the country, you should take care, 5 Firearms and ammunition. especially in winter. Remember also that in warmer climates, inside 5 Goods which are in breach of copyright. 20 temperatures are usually kept very cool. 5 Products containing genetically modified organisms. 21 preparing for the trip tips for flying in brazil
5 Toy guns, replicas and imitations of firearms, except for display in the collection of an authorized person under the terms set out by the Brazilian Army Command, “Comando do Exército Brasileiro”. 5 Wildlife species unless accompanied by a license and technical justification from the Department of the Environment. 5 Aquatic species for ornamental or agricultural purposes at any stage of the life cycle, without the permission of the appropriate authority. 5 Products with falsified, altered or imitated branding or a false indication of origin. 5 Pesticides, their components and related products. 5 Alcoholic beverages, tobacco, cigarettes and similar items if carried by a traveler who is under 18 years of age. 5 Narcotics or drugs.
PRODUCTS OF ANIMAL AND VEGETAL ORIGIN Beginning in May 2016, a new regulation of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento) authorizes the entry of products of animal origin in luggage. Before, only processed products of vegetable origin were authorized to enter Brazil. The entry of these products is limited to 5 kg (11 lb) and 10 kg (22 lb) per person, depending on the product: 5 Industrialized meat products destined for human consumption (commercially sterilized, cooked, extracts or meat concentrates, etc.): up to 10 kg (22 lb) per person 5 Industrialized dairy products (sweetened condensed milk, powdered milk, butter, cream, aged cheese, soft cheese, etc.): up to 5 liters (33.8 oz) or 5 kg (11 lb) per person 5 Products derived from eggs (powdered eggs, pasteurized liquid eggs, dehydrated egg whites, etc.): up to 5 kg for person 5 Fish (whole, salted fish or gutted, cured fish, gutted, smoked fish, commercially sterilized fish): up to 5 kg (11 lb) per person 5 Products of animal origin for ornamentation: up to 5 units per person 22 after 23 Thiago Leite / Shutterstock.com Thiago Leite © LANDING after landing tips for flying in brazil
after landing taxes payable) as well as gifts bought overseas whose total value is more than US$ 500. For objects such as these, which are left in the country, any Time zones excess (over US$ 500) will be taxed at a rate of 50%. On the return journey, a passenger may leave Brazil with goods purchased up to the value HOW DO TIME ZONES AND of US$ 2,000. In case of questions, contact the Federal Revenue Bureau 16 DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME WORK (Receita Federal). IN BRAZIL? Brazil has four time zones, with the official time LEAVING THE AIRPORT zone for the country (UTC/GMT -3 hours) known TRANSPORT as “Brasília Time” – Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo WHAT ARE THE BEST TRANSPORT OPTIONS FROM are located in a time zone which is the same as Brazil’s capital. They 18 BRAZILIAN AIRPORTS? follow daylight savings time, as other states also do. In the states which Generally the two most comfortable options when leaving adopt daylight-saving time (summer time) it begins on the third Sunday the airport are taxi or executive coach. In Rio de Janeiro and São in October and ends on the third Sunday in February. If the end date Paulo, private vehicles requested through the Uber app also provide coincides with Carnival Sunday the changeover date is put forward to the transportation. There are also inexpensive, conventional city buses, following Sunday. Check your destination’s time zone at 24timezones.com. however they are not recommended as they rarely have foreign language information and are unsuitable for carrying luggage. CUSTOMS 5 Executive Coaches: these are an economical alternative to transfer WHICH GOODS MUST I DECLARE WHEN ENTERING by taxi when the airport is far from the city center and particularly when traveling alone, not having anyone to share a taxi with. They 17 BRAZIL? usually have a baggage compartment, comfortable seats and air- The contents of the baggage of non-resident passengers is exempt from conditioning. The coaches leave from the airport and travel directly to import duty. It comes under a temporary admission arrangement, which the city center, stopping at strategic points near major hotels. applies to cameras, laptops and the like, sporting equipment and other 5 Taxis: are the most convenient option. The journey is very valuable items for personal or professional usage. However, to bring such reasonable in the case of airports which are close to the major hotel items into Brazil, it is necessary to declare to customs any item with a areas like Recife, Congonhas (São Paulo) and Santos Dumont (Rio de value greater than US$ 3,000 and to sign a document stating that you Janeiro). However it can become quite expensive when the airport is will take the item with you when you leave the country (i.e.; it is not a long way away as is the case for Cumbica (São Paulo/Guarulhos), permitted to leave such items in the country). You must also declare cash, Galeão (Rio de Janeiro) and Confins (Belo Horizonte). Most commonly traveler’s checks or checks for amounts in excess of R$ 10.000 or the at airports in Brazil, the passenger can choose how the taxi fare will 24 equivalent in foreign currency (there is no limit on the amount, nor any be calculated: Metered ride, where the fare is based on the time 25 after landing tips for flying in brazil
and distance to the destination – in this case all you need to do is go directly to the taxi passenger pick up area. Pre-paid ride, where DISTANCE AND TRANSPORTATION FROM AIRPORT TO HOTEl TRANSPORTFROM AIRPORTS the fare is pre-defined based on the destination address. This is Check the distance between the airport and downtown (or hotel areas) and generally a little more expensive than a metered ride but it is useful the best transfer options in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. for someone who does not know the city as it ensures that there are 5 Rio de Janeiro/Galeão (GIG) no surprises. To take a taxi in this way, proceed to the taxi booth or Santa Teresa: 19 km stand in the arrival area and pre-pay the fare. Bear in mind that taxi South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon): 25 km rates vary from city to city and that fares usually have a surcharge Barra da Tijuca: 35 km TRANSPORT: executive coach (Real “Premium”), taxi and Uber at night, in the early morning, on Sundays, public holidays and in December and in some touristic cities also during the high season. 5 Rio de Janeiro/Santos Dumont (SDU) Santa Teresa: 3 km Some taxis also charge per baggage placed in the trunk. South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon): 9 km 5 Private vehicles (Uber): This is a good option for those arriving in Barra da Tijuca: 25 km TRANSPORT: executive coach (Real “Premium”), taxi and Uber Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, as they are at least as comfortable as taxis, depending on the vehicle requested through the Uber app by 5 São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU) Downtown: 27 km cell phone. In the UberX modality, the vehicles may be more compact, Jardins and Avenida Paulista: 30 km but all have air conditioning (the savings in comparison to taxi fares Pinheiros and Vila Madalena: 32 km can be up to 50%). These same vehicles serve the UberPOOL modality, TRANSPORT: executive coach (Airport Bus Service), taxi and Uber in which the transportation service can be shared with 3 other 5 São Paulo/Congonhas (CGH) passengers (in this case, the fare is even lower, about 25% less than Downtown: 11 km UberX). The most expensive modality is Uber Black, with medium- Jardins and Avenida Paulista: 11 km Pinheiros and Vila Madalena: 10 km size, black sedans with leather seats and up to three years of use (the TRANSPORT: executive coach (Airport Bus Service), taxi and Uber fare is closer to that of a taxi, but the trip is more comfortable). The 5 passengers should request the service after getting their checked São Paulo (Campinas)/Viracopos, (VCP) Downtown: 91 km luggage, when they are actually ready to leave the airport. After the Jardins and Avenida Paulista: 90 km request, the driver will make contact to find out the passenger’s Pinheiros and Vila Madalena: 92km location and to arrange the pickup location. Transport: Executive coach to Rodoviária do Tietê and Congonhas Airport (VB Transportes and Lira Bus); the Azul airline offer complimentary transfer by executive coach to strategic points in São Paulo. CAUTION: Pirate Taxis At the terminal exit it is common for travelers to be approached by individuals who offer taxi services and lead the traveler to illegally- A NOTE ON TRAFFIC! operating vehicles, parked outside of the designated taxi area. To avoid Take into consideration that traffic can be extremely heavy in some cities, falling victim to people with bad intentions, who are specialists in especially at rush hour. Plan to leave for the airport well in advance so as exploiting tourists, make sure you only take taxis in the designated taxi not to run the risk of missing your flight. pick up area, as is the case in big cities all around the world. 26 27 tips for flying in brazil
mobility
WHICH MOBILE DEVICE APPS CAN HELP ME GET 19 AROUND DURING MY STAY IN BRAZIL? Apps for calling taxis are widely used in the big cities of Brazil. It is the quickest way to get a cab. Some of the apps are 99taxis, Easy Taxi, Taxibeat; in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Uber is also an option. If you are going to drive, Waze can be very useful to indicate the best routes and to avoid traffic congestion. If you will be taking public transport, Moovit shows you the best route by bus, train, subway and boat.
HOW TO MOVE AROUND IN RIO DE JANEIRO AND SÃO PAULO mobility
5 RIO DE JANEIRO: Using public transportation is a way to save money and time, by avoiding the city traffic. Regular buses (some without air conditioning) and Line 1 of the subway connect Zona Sul (South Zone, which includes Ipanema, Copacabana and Leblon) to the Center, where there is the Santos Dumont airport and some of the city’s tourist attractions. Also in Zona Sul is where the new Line 4 subway leaves towards Barra da Tijuca. To go to Maracanã from Zona Sul or the Center, one can simply take the Line 2 subway. An alternative to public transport is taxis; it’s safer to request a taxi through an app (read above) or with the help of a hotel reception employee.
5 São Paulo: The subway connects the neighborhoods where the hotels are concentrated and those with attractions to visit. Line 2 - Verde (Green) passes through Vila Mariana, all of Avenida Paulista and goes to Vila Madalena. And Line 4 - Amarela (Yellow) passes through Pinheiros, along Avenida Paulista and continues to Estação da Luz in the Center. From Estação da Luz, trains go to the Estação Corinthians-Itaquera, a few meters from the Corinthians Arena. In the Zona Sul (South Zone), subway line 9 - Esmeralda (emerald) runs along Marginal Pinheiros, connecting Brooklin, Itaim, Vila Olímpia and Pinheiros, where there is a connection to subway Line 4 - Amarela (Yellow). DURING YOUR STAY 29 © Michal Staniewski/Shutterstock.com IN BRAZIL during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
HOtels EVENTS
WHICH ARE THE BEST AREAS TO STAY IN RIO DE WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT EVENTS IN RIO DE 20 JANEIRO AND SÃO PAULO? 21 JANEIRO AND SÃO PAULO? In Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon have many hotels, Carnival and New Year’s Eve are the high season in Rio de Janeiro, bars, restaurants, stores and services, as well as the city’s most famous when the city is full of Brazilian and foreign tourists. These are time beaches. As there is never enough rooms, new hotels have been periods of highest demand and prices, mainly for hotels. This will inaugurated in Barra da Tijuca, a neighborghood with many shopping likely happen during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, in August malls. In the Center, Flamengo and Botafogo, the hostels, bars and and September, 2016. restaurants are also good choices, as well as in Santa Teresa, which São Paulo has a lively calendar, with well-attended events throughout has charming inns. In São Paulo, those who stay in Jardins and Avenida the year. Carnival (February or March), LGBT Pride Parade (May or June), Paulista are in the most valued area, full of stores, restaurants and cafés. the Arts Biennial (September to December), the International Film In the neighboring Vila Mariana there are many bars and hostels, as well Festival (October), the Automobile Hall (from October to November) as a subway station. Brooklin, Vila Olímpia and Itaim, in the Zona Sul and the Formula 1 GP (November) fill the city and cause great (South Zone), have many offices and, therefore, many hotels. In Pinheiros, increases in lodging prices. there are few lodging options, but there are a lot of stores and excellent restaurants; and nearby, Vila Madalena has many designer stores, studios, hostels and bars that are full well into the night. weather
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN RIO DE JANEIRO AND 22 SÃO PAULO? THE RIO DE JANEIRO-SÃO PAULO AIR SHUTTLE Rio de Janeiro has a hot and humid climate, with an average summer The flights between theSantos Dumont (Rio De Janeiro) and temperature of 26°C (79°F). At that time, the temperatures often Congonhas (São Paulo) airports are the fastest way to travel between the two capitals. It is the so-called “Ponte Aérea” (air shuttle), with are above 30°C (86°F), and brief, strong rainfall can occur in the over 100 flights daily from 6 am to 10 pm, with flights departing afternoon. In July, the coldest winter month, the climate is mild, with approximately every 10 minutes. It is a 45-minute flight. In both average temperatures around 20°C (68°F) - the temperature goes directions, it is worth booking a window seat on the the right side of the plane: those flying to Rio can see the whole coast between up a bit from August to September, when the average is around the two cities and, depending on the plane’s route, can also see the 25°C (77°F). In São Paulo, the hottest month is January, with average Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf from up-close; when flying temperatures a little over 20°C (68°F) - summer in the city also to São Paulo, at take-off there is a panoramic view of Guanabara Bay, Copacabana, Morro Dois Irmãos and of Barra da Tijuca. often includes intense rain in late afternoon. The city’s climate is 30 quite dry in the winter, when temperatures are around 15°C (59°F), 31 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
with minimum temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F). During August HOW DO I MAKE TELEPHONE CALLS IN BRAZIL? and September, with the end of winter and beginning of spring, the 24 Public phones, which are increasingly rare, operate with average temperature goes to 20°C(68°F). It is worth noting that telephone cards (sold in newsagents, bakeries and at various other Brazil’s climate is not temperate, as in Europe, and so the seasons are stores) and by collect calls. Here’s how you make phone calls in Brazil. not as well defined: in São Paulo, for example, it can be cold in the summer (with cold fronts) and hot in the winter (when the cold fronts
phone calls phone are blocked and can’t reach the state). 5 Local calls: Telephone number (usually 8 digits), without the city code or operator code
SERVICEs calls 5 Collect calls: 9090 + telephone number 5 Long distance calls (DDD): 0 + operator code (see below) + DDD HOW TO USE CELL PHONES IN BRAZIL? 23 code (2 digits, for example 11 for São Paulo, 21 for Rio de Janeiro) + In order to avoid the high cost of international roaming, a telephone number good alternative is to buy a prepaid SIM card in Brazil. They are sold by 5 Long distance collect calls (DDD): 9 + 0 + operator code (see below) authorized mobile network providers as well as in newsagents, bakeries + DDD code (2 digits, for example 11 for São Paulo, 21 for Rio de and certain other stores. Foreigners do not have to provide a CPF number Janeiro) + telephone number (the equivalent of a social security number) and the telephone number is 5 International calls (DDI): 00 + operator code (see below) + country available within a few hours. You can recharge the card with more credit code + city code + telephone number at authorized mobile network provider stores as well as at newsstands Examples of telephone operator codes and at the checkout of bakeries and supermarkets. You just need to give the mobile number to the cashier. When going to a different city or state, Vivo: 15 Embratel: 21 Oi: 31 buy a new SIM card - the rates increase a lot when a card is used outside DDD codes for Brazilian capital cities of its place of origin. To make local calls, just ring the number. To make long distance calls with the cell phone dial 0 + operator code + city Aracaju: 79 Fortaleza: 85 Porto Velho: 69 Belém: 91 Goiânia: 62 Recife: 81 code + telephone number. The mobile network operators with national Belo Horizonte: 31 João Pessoa: 83 Rio Branco: 68 coverage are Claro (21), Oi (31), TIM (41) and Vivo (15). Boa Vista: 95 Macapá: 96 Rio de Janeiro: 21 Brasilia: 61 Maceió: 82 Salvador: 71 SAVING MONEY ON CALLs Campo Grande: 67 Manaus: 92 São Luís: 98 If you plan on making international calls or even calling long distance for Cuiabá: 65 Natal: 84 São Paulo: 11 extended periods, VoIP programs like Skype can present an interesting alternative. You can also use prepaid telephone cards for international Curitiba: 41 Palmas: 63 Teresina: 86 calls. If you do so, you might consider buying a card before leaving home, Florianópolis: 48 Porto Alegre: 51 Vitória: 27 32 as the rates charged in Brazil are usually higher. 33 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
ACCESSING THE INTERNET IN BRAZIL TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERs 25
It is common for hotels, bars, cafés, restaurants, gyms and the TOURIST INFORMATION Look for the tourist information centers to learn more about attractions like to give clients a password to access their internet through wi-fi. and useful services for visitors. Besides supplying maps and brochures, In Rio De Janeiro, the beach stands also often supply a signal at no the employees can help with hotel reservations and give tips on charge. In São Paulo, 120 places offer a free signal - some are more transportation, attractions, shopping and information on cultural programming during your stay. Here are the main, official tourist tourist-oriented, like the Municipal Market in the Center, and the information centers in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo: Museu de Arte de São Paulo (Masp), on Avenida Paulista (check all Rio de Janeiro of the places here). In areas where 5 Santos Dumont Airport the infrastructure is less developed, Arrivals area on the first floor. there are internet cafés (locally named Every day from 6 am to 10 pm “LAN house”). You can also use the 3G 5 Antonio Carlos Jobim/Galeão International Airport network on a prepaid plan with your International arrivals area. Every day, 24 hrs/day cell phone. The 4G network is currently Tels. +55 (21) 3398 4077 and +55 (21) 3367 6213 being implemented in Brazil and will 5 Barra da Tijuca gradually become available for clients Av. do Pepê, at corner of Av. Olegário Maciel. Every day from 9 am to 6 pm on prepaid plans. Make sure you check the plans and coverage when buying a SÃO PAULO SIM card. 5 Congonhas Airport Arrivals area on the first floor. Every day from 7 am to 10 pm HOW CAN I CHANGE MONEY? 5 Guarulhos International Airport 26 In Brazil, businesses and stores do not accept foreign currency. Terminals 1 and 2, arrivals area. Every day from 8 am to 8 pm At the major airports you will find currency exchange offices and banks which change money. In the cities there are few options: 5 Mercado Municipal Paulistano Rua da Cantareira, 306 (Downtown). currency exchange offices are concentrated in malls and in the Monday to Saturday, from 8 am to 5 pm; Sunday, from 7 am to 4 pm touristic or finance districts and operate during office hours. Some 5 Avenida Paulista hotels also change currency. One can exchange money in certain Av. Paulista, 1853 (Jardins). banks, with better rates for account holders. As an alternative to Every day from 9 am to 6 pm exchanging money you can withdraw local currency from an ATM. 5 Praça da República Praça da República (Downtown). Keep in mind that for the most part ATMs are not in operation after Every day from 9 am to 6 pm 34 10 pm for security reasons. 35 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
ARE CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS WIDELY ACCEPTED I LOST MY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS IN BRAZIL. WHAT 27 IN BRAZIL? 29 SHOULD I DO? The use of credit and debit cards is extremely widespread in Brazil. Immediately contact your country’s closest consulate or the consular – you can pay by card even in small shops and stalls on the beach service of the embassy. They will help with the required procedures. in popular areas and so there should be no need to exchange large In the case of loss or theft of credit or debit cards or traveler’s amounts of cash during your stay. In stores and pharmacies, it is checks it is the responsibility of the traveler to contact their financial common to be able to divide payment for purchase into payment institution. If the consulate requests a police report (known in Brazil installments on the credit card - this is a common practice in Brazil. as a “BO”) you should go to the nearest police station as soon as And, with the popularization of apps, many taxis have begun to possible to report the incident. This report will also be necessary for accept card payments (the most widely accepted ones are Visa and reimbursements from travel insurance and for Brazilian Immigration Mastercard; check with the driver before entering the taxi). to exchange your entry stamp. The police can be contacted in any city in Brazil by ringing 190. Do not anticipate service in any language other than Portuguese, apart from when talking with the Tourist Police.
SECURITY SPECIAL TOURIST SUPPORT POLICE STATIONS IN RIO DE JANEIRO AND SÃO PAULO WHICH PRECAUTIONS SHOULD I TAKE WHEN VISITING 28 Rio de Janeiro CITIES LIKE RIO DE JANEIRO AND SÃO PAULO? 5 Deat – Special Tourist Support Police Station Many places in Brazil are safe, but some precautions – recommended Av. Afrânio de Melo Franco, 159 (Leblon) in any big city – help prevent disagreeable surprises. When leaving Tel: (21) 2332 2924, (21) 2332 2885 and (21) 2332 2889
the hotel, one should not use watches or jewelry that call attention, São Paulo one should carry electronic equipment (like cameras) discretely 5 Congonhas Airport in bags or backpacks held close to the body. Avoid placing a cell Tel.: (11) 5090 9032 phone or wallet in a back pocket, and don’t carry large amounts of 5 Guarulhos International Airport Tel.: (11) 2445 2686 money, nor your passport. Avoid walking on narrow, deserted, dark 5 Deatur – Police Station Specializing in Tourist Support streets, even if they connect busier streets. In bars and restaurants, Rua da Cantareira, 390, Downtown, in the building next to the don’t leave bags, wallets or cell phones in view or unattended. When Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market) driving, keep windows closed, and place bags and backpacks behind Tel.: (11) 3120 4417 36 the front seat or in the trunk. 37 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
visa extension DOMESTIC FLIGHTS IN BRAZIL 30 I INTEND TO STAY LONGER THAN MY VISA PERMITS. BAGGAGE HOW CAN I PROLONG MY STAY? WHAT BAGGAGE REGULATIONS APPLY ON Tourists can request a visa extension of an additional 90 days from the 31 BRAZILIAN DOMESTIC FLIGHTS? Federal Police. To extend the stay you must go in person to the offices of As in other countries, passengers on domestic the Federal Police who will analyze your immigration status and decide if flights can take two types of baggage: carry-on an extension will be granted and for how long. After this extension period, baggage, which is small and used for personal, the visitor must leave the country and wait for at least 180 days before valuable items and checked baggage, which is being permitted to reenter the country as a tourist. At a Brazilian consulate, placed in the aircraft’s baggage compartment. a foreigner may also apply for a more appropriate visa: temporary visas for Baggage allowances vary depending on the students, for business, for journalists or for religious missions, permanent airline, the aircraft and the destination but in visas in the case of family union with a Brazilian (marriage or de facto tips general they are as follows: for flying in brazil relationship regardless of gender), foreign parents with a Brazilian child or for investors.
Source: Federal Police (Polícia Federal) and Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs Carry-on baggage* (Ministério das Relações Exteriores - Itamaraty) The sum of the length, breadth and depth of the bag may not exceed 115 cm (45 inches) and the maximum allowable weight is 5 kg (11 lb). Guidelines for obtaining a tourist visa extension It is advisable to take as carry-on baggage objects which are fragile, of financial or sentimental value or useful during the trip – for example The tourist should go to the offices of the Federal Police with the electronic equipment (laptop, tablet, cell phone, camera), medicines, following documents: money, documents, keys and reading material or personal comfort (like 5 Extension of Limit of Stay Form, duly filled in. 5 Travel document (passport, or identity document for Mercosur members). ear plugs, eye masks, pillows, etc.). A jacket is recommended (because 5 Proof of the visitor’s ability to provide for themselves during their in some airplanes, the temperature can be relatively low), as well as a proposed stay in the country and proof of their intention to return to change of clothes appropriate to the climate of the destination city - a their country of origin – for example credit cards, a house, a return ticket. precaution against a lost piece of checked luggage. Source: Federal Police (Polícia Federal) and Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs (Ministério das Relações Exteriores – Itamaraty) The following items are not permitted in your carry-on baggage: 5 Weapons or replicas of weapons. 38 5 Sharp or pointed objects (scissors, penknife, razor, etc.). 39 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
5 Other objects which can be used to injure (hammer, pliers, bats, etc.). 5 Explosives,toxicorinflammablesubstances(aerosols,lighterfluid,etc.) CHARGE YOUR BATTERIEs Remember to charge the batteries of your electronic equipment before Permitted in carry-on baggage: you travel. Not all aircraft provide onboard power sockets for passengers. 5 Safety razor, scissors with rounded tips and blades under 6 cm, metal nail file, if less than 6 cm (2.3 inches) in length with no pointy tip or cutting edg. SPECIAL BAGGAGE ITEMS 5 Pencils and pens less than 15 cm (5.9 inches) in length. 5 1 cigarette lighter – gas or fluid. Each airline has its own policies concerning the transportation of special 5 Selfie stick, as long as it doesn’t exceed the carry-on-luggage weight baggage items. They all permit the carrying of certain sporting equipment and volume limits. and musical instruments, however it is important to check with your chosen 5 A maximum of 5 bottles of alcohol so long as they are sealed, each contains airline beforehand since some items may incur excess baggage fees if they no more than 1 liter (33.8 oz) and the alcohol content is less than 70%. exceed the allowance. Since some aircraft have a limit on the number of 5 A maximum of 4 spray bottles of no more than 500 ml (16.9 oz) or 500 special items they can carry, it is important to notify the airline at least 48 g (1.1 lb) for medical or personal hygiene usage. hours before departure: *Some restrictions may be applied by the security agent in the 5 Bicycles: should be packed in suitable packaging, like a box or bicycle inspection area. bag. The tires must be deflated, the pedals removed and wrapped, the handle bars attached parallel to the frame and the front wheel removed CHECKED BAGGAGE and attached to the frame. In Brazil, all flights have a checked baggage allowance. On domestic 5 Balls: should be deflated. flights each passenger is permitted 23 kg (50.7 lb) of checked 5 Wheelchairs: if it has a battery, the battery should be removed at the time baggage, regardless of the number of items. If the baggage exceeds of check-in and kept in an appropriate container. (Read more in page 51). this limit, a fee is charged for the excess weight. It is not advisable 5 Sports equipment like surfboards and bodyboards, skateboards, skis, to transport valuable items or electronics in your checked baggage. fishing rods and the like should be transported in suitable containers or in their original packaging. So as to avoid damage, companies usually impose It is forbidden to carry in your checked baggage: a limit on the number of items. 5 Weapons and replicas of weapons. 5 Musical instruments: as a general rule, there is no problem for smaller 5 Sharp or pointed objects (scissors, penknife, razor, etc.). instruments if they are packed appropriately. However it is important to 5 Other instruments that could be used to harm (hammer, pliers, find out from the airline the maximum dimensions and weight permitted billy-clubs, etc.). in the cabin. It is also worth checking with each company their policy on 40 5 Toxic, explosive or inflammable substances (aerosols, lighter fluid, etc.). the carrying of valuable instruments like harps, violins and cellos. 41 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
children to avoid baggage problems 5 Pack medicines you take frequently and personal documents in your What rules apply when children fly carry-on baggage. 32 unaccompanied on domestic flights in Brazil? baggage 5 Only check baggage if necessary; wherever possible take only carry-on Airlines each have their own criteria for the admission of baggage (within the permitted limits) – it is faster, easier and safer. unaccompanied children on domestic flights. Please contact the airline 5 Do not transport luggage that is not yours or that you don’t know the in advance to avoid setbacks. In general, the rules are the following: contents of. 5 0 – 5 years old, unaccompanied travel is not permitted. 5 Do not cram your suitcase to the point of forcing the zipper. 5 5 – 12 years old, unaccompanied travel is permitted on some 5 Never travel with a damaged suitcase; it may be rejected at check-in or airlines with the engagement of the airline’s child supervision may break during transport. services. You must have the travel authorization permitting the 5 Remove detachable accessories from your baggage before checking it; child to leave the country of origin (see page 16). If you do not such items may become loose and come off in the aircraft baggage hold have the authorization, you must contact the consulate of the 5 Lock your bag’s zipper with a padlock or plastic cable tie. country of origin. 5 Attach to your bags a label with your name, address and phone number 5 12 – 18 years old are permitted to fly unaccompanied on and identify your baggage with stickers or a colored ribbon; this helps to presentation of a valid passport or identity document for identify your baggage on the carousel and prevents another passenger Mercosur members. from taking it by mistake. 5 Attach another tag containing your contact details inside the bag in an easily visible place; this provides added security in case the tag on the outside is lost. What rules apply when minors travel 5 Plastic wrapping of suitcases, as offered at most airports, can be useful 33 accompanied by only one parent or by an adult for protecting your baggage. who is not the legal guardian? 5 Carry at least one change of clothing in your carry-on baggage. Foreign children with a valid passport (or identity document for Mercosur members) may freely board a domestic flight if accompanied by an adult, whether they are a relative or not. If there is no family relationship up to 3rd degree, as evidenced by their ATTENTION! documents, you will have to provide the same travel authorization Passengers who are drunk or under the influence of illegal or illicit chemical substances can be prohibited from boarding to prevent permitting the child to leave the country of origin (see page 16). If you problems for other passengers. do not have the authorization, you must contact the consulate of the 42 country of origin. 43 during your stay in brazil tips for flying in brazil
DELAYS WHEN YOU LEAVE BRAZIL
WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS IF MY FLIGHT IS DELAYED? What things may not leave the country? 34 Depending on the waiting time, passengers of flights leaving 35 Brazil is very strict on the control of what may leave the from Brazil have the right to some compensation: country, particularly when it comes to flora, fauna and national 5 From one hour: communication (internet, phonecalls, etc.). heritage items. It is forbidden to leave Brazil with wild animals or 5 From two hours: food (voucher, snack, drinks, etc.). with animal hides or skins in their raw state or with artworks or 5 For a period of 4 hours or more: accommodations or lodging (if handcrafts which contain feathers or butterfly wings, for example. a passenger needs to spend the night and doesn’t live in the city The authorization of the Ministry of Culture is required when where the flight departs from) and transportation from and to the taking out of the country works of art and traditional crafts, old airport. books and collections of old documents, collections of magazines 5 If the delay exceeds four hours or if the flight is cancelled or which were published more than 10 years ago, as well as musical boarding is stopped, the airline must compensate the passenger scores (originals and old copies). It is prohibited to leave Brazil with with a rescheduled flight or a full refund of the ticket. vehicles or automotive parts or goods for resale or commercial use.
Departing with money and goods Transport of vital organS Travelers who leave Brazil with more than R$ 10,000 in cash (or the Air transport logistics are essential to the prompt delivery of donated equivalent in another currency) are required to submit an Electronic organs in time for transplant operations all over Brazil. At the end Declaration of Traveler’s Goods (e-DBV) by internet and report to customs of 2013 the airlines which are associated with ABEAR formed an agreement with the National Transplant Center (CNT) of the Ministry for questioning at the place where they will leave the country. Travelers of Health to improve organ transport procedures by covering the may leave with goods purchased in Brazil up to the value of US$ 2,000 on operational costs and transporting donated organs free of charge. presentation of receipts. Over US$ 2,000, goods not considered as part of Aircraft carrying organs for transplant are given priority during take- normal baggage items (used clothing, publications, personal effects, etc) off and landing. If such a flight is completely full, airline staff will may only leave the country by means of customs exportation. This process inform the passengers who will then have the opportunity to give up is not simple and so it is highly recommended that you find out about the their seats on the flight and permit those transporting the organs to procedures and deadlines well in advance. board in their place. In this way, passengers have the opportunity of contributing to the efficiency of this important mission. Source: Federal Revenue Bureau (Receita Federal)
44 45 tips for flying in brazil
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE
LEARN WHICH PASSENGERS CAN REQUEST SPECIAL ASSISTANCE FROM AIRLINES Special assistance is offered by airlines to people with a disability, to those age 60 and over, to pregnant women, to people traveling with babies or toddlers, to those with reduced mobility or to any person who, due to a condition, has limited autonomy as a passenger.
BEFORE BOARDING
ARE AIRLINES PREPARED TO 36 SERVE PASSENGERS REQUIRING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE? Yes. Both airports and airlines have programs to train employees in this area. The airlines always have an employee available to help resolve needs of passengers requiring special assistance - this service can occur in person or remotely.
WHEN SHOULD THE PASSENGER REQUIRING SPECIAL 37 ASSISTANCE REQUEST THIS FROM THE AIRLINE? When purchasing the ticket, the passenger can inform the airline about needing a companion, technical assistance or other assistance. If the passenger did not inform the airline when the ticket was purchased, he/she can use airline customer service (page 56) to make this request later by contacting the airline at least 48 hours before the flight. This applies to people with a 47 ACCESSIBILITY accessibility tips for flying in brazil
disability, to pregnant women, to people traveling with babies 39 WHAT SITUATIONS REQUIRE A COMPANION’S or toddlers, to senior citizens, people with reduced mobility or PRESENCE DURING THE FLIGHT? to any person who, due to a condition, has limited autonomy as The airlines provide a companion, whenever necessary, for a passenger. Some situations require communication with the passengers with reduced mobility or who require special airline at least 72 hours before the flight, for example: when assistance and also in the following cases: when the passenger the passenger requires specific technical assistance (a stretcher, needs to travel in a stretcher or incubator; when there is an an oxygen tank), when his/her health condition is considered impediment of a mental or intellectual nature that hinders unstable or when a travel companion is required - in these cases, understanding of safety instructions or when the passenger will the airlines ask that the passenger send via email one complete, not be able to take care of their own physiological necessities certified doctor’s statement or a MEDIF, available for download on without another person’s help. In all of the above cases, the its websites (see table below) - after receiving the document, the airline must provide a companion, at no additional cost, as long airlines have 48 hours to analyze it and to authorize the trip, or not. as the airline has been advised at least 72 hours in advance. If the passenger prefers to take their own chosen companion, airlines can charge a fare up to 20% of the value of the ticket
When the passenger requires specific already purchased by the customer with special needs. 5 AZUL technical assistance or a companion on 5 GOL the trip, some airlines require a medical 5 LATAM MEDIF information form (MEDIF). One can The companion must be at least 18 years of age, travel in the 5 download the form using these links: TAP same class and in a nearby seat and must be able to provide the necessary assistance.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE PASSENGER REQUIRING 38 SPECIAL ASSISTANCE HASN’T INFORMED THE AT THE AIRPORT AIRLINE WITHIN THE STATED TIME PERIOD? The airlines work to make the passenger’s experience the best 40 AT THE AIRPORT, ARE THERE PREFERENTIAL possible during the flight, even if they have not been informed PARKING SPACES NEAR THE ARRIVALS AREAS? of the need for special assistance. The passenger can board Yes. The preferential parking spaces are near the entrances to normally, as long as he/she agrees to fly with the assistance the passenger terminals, and guarantee safety for circulation of that is available. passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. 48 49 accessibility tips for flying in brazil
41 HOW ARE THE AIRPORTS STRUCTURED TO SERVE 42 AT CHECK-IN, WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDATIONS PASSENGERS REQUIRING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE? FOR PASSENGERS REQUIRING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE? The airports have adapted telephones with a connected keyboard, Any passenger requiring special assistance can go to a customer for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. In the Congonhas airport service counter or to airline employees to request priority in São Paulo, and in the Santos Dumont airport in Rio De Janeiro, check-in. When doing this, it is recommended that the passenger the monitors transmit flight information in Brazilian Sign Language emphasize to the airline employee what the assistance requested - (called LIBRAS in Portugese). There are tactile floor surface is and, if needed, mention wheelchair transport and other aid indicators in the airports of São Paulo (Guarulhos International equipment (canes, crutches, walkers). and Congonhas), Rio de Janeiro (Santos Dumont and Galeão), Porto Alegre, Florianópolis, Belo Horizonte (Pampulha), Salvador, Goiânia, CAN EQUIPMENT LIKE WHEELCHAIRS, WALKERS, Maceió, Recife, João Pessoa, Fortaleza, Teresina, São Luís, Belém, Boa 43 CRUTCHES AND CANES BE CARRIED ONBOARD OR Vista, Manaus and Porto Velho. MUST THEY BE CHECKED? Wheelchairs can be taken onboard when there is space, or When arriving at the airport, the passenger must see airline employees checked as a priority item. Other aid equipment (cane, crutches, for check-in. Check on the procedures for which the airline provides walkers) should be taken onboard - they will only need to be priority service and special assistance: checked if there is some restriction regarding size, if there is a 5 Check-in and checking luggage. security issue or, depending on the size of the airplane, if they 5 Going from the check-in counter to the aircraft, passing through are too large to be accommmodated in the passenger cabin. the federal police border checkpoint and security. All the equipment must be made available to the passenger AT THE AIRPORT THE AT 5 Boarding and deplaning. at deplaning. In case of loss or damage, the airline must 5 Seating and moving inside the aircraft. immediately provide, at deplaning, an equivalent item. 5 Stowing hand luggage in the aircraft. 5 Moving from the aircraft to baggage claim. 5 Claiming checked baggage and being accompanied through
the federal police border checkpoint. WHEELCHAIRs 5 Exiting the arrivals area and accessing the public area. If the wheelchair has a battery, it will be examined at check-in - the 5 Getting to restrooms. airline employee will determine if it will be checked or if it can go in the passenger cabin. Depending on the type and state of the 5 Assistance for those with guide dogs. battery, it may be necessary, for safety reasons, to remove it from the 5 Transfer or connection between flights. wheelchair at check-in and store it in appropriate packaging. 5 Individual demonstration of emergency procedures, when requested.
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44 CAN THE PASSENGER USE THEIR OWN WHEELCHAIR CAN A PASSENGER WITH A VISUAL DISABILITY ON THE WAY TO THE AIRCRAFT? 47 BOARD WITH THEIR GUIDE DOG? Yes. The passenger can use their own wheelchair to go to Yes. If the trip is between Brazilian cities, the passenger must the door of the aircraft, if the equipment passes at airport present the guide dog’s training certificate and vaccination inspection. If, due to a security issue, the wheelchair could not certificate issued by a veterinarian. The document must include be transported onboard, the airlines make other equipment up to-date combination and rabies vaccines, as well as proof available to the passengers. of parasite treatment. If traveling internationally, one must carry the International Animal Health Certificate (CZI), issued by the Agriculture and Livestock Inspection of the International HOW DO PASSENGERS WITH REDUCED MOBILITY Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (Vigilância 45 BOARD? Agropecuária Internacional do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária If the airport doesn’t have a boarding bridge or if the airplane is e Abastecimento - MAPA). The dog must remain on the floor of the in a remote position (that is, with no boarding bridge), the airport passenger cabin, next to its owner and under its owner’s control, itself must offer ambulift, a vehicle equipped with an elevator to with the aid of a harness. The passenger must provide food as allow boarding and deplaning of people with reduced mobility. needed to the animal. If the airport doesn’t have this equipment, or if it is being used by another passenger, the airline can propose another type of transport that guarantees the safety and dignity of the On THE PLANE passenger. Except in an emergency and in aircraft evacuation situations, the passenger cannot be manually carried during HOW ARE THE AIRCRAFT PREPARED TO SERVE boarding and deplaning. 48 PASSENGERS REQUIRING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE? The aircraft must have next special seats near the doors where boarding and deplaning occur. Aircraft with 30 or more seats 46 AT BOARDING, DO PASSENGERS REQUIRING must have at least half of the aisle seats with movable armrests SPECIAL ASSISTANCE HAVE PRIORITY? – these special seats cannot be located in the exit rows. Aircraft Yes. They have priority over other passengers when boarding the with over 100 seats must have at least one wheelchair on board. aircraft - for this to function well, it is important to be at the gate before boarding is scheduled to begin.
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IS THE PRIORITY SERVICE AGENCIES AND GOVERNMENTAL USEFULLINKS ANDCONTACTS 49 FOR PASSENGERS AND REGULATORY AUTHORITIES
REQUIRING SPECIAL Anac – National Agency of Civil industrial and commercial 40 ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE Aviation exploitation of airport infrastructure and air navigation support. Infraero is THROUGHOUT THE TRIP? www.anac.gov.br (pt) Federal agency which regulates also involved in airport construction. After boarding, airline employees and oversees the activities of civil assist the passenger in getting aviation and aeronautical and RF– Federal Revenue Bureau accommodated in their seat, in airport infrastructure. www.receita.fazenda.gov.br (pt) Federal agency responsible for stowing hand luggage, in any Anvisa – National Agency for customs at airports. It is responsible movement needed about the Sanitary Surveillance for preventing and combating tax aircraft. The only exception is at www.anvisa.gov.br/viajante (pt) evasion, smuggling, piracy, commercial deplaning. The passenger will only Federal agency which regulates fraud, drug trafficking and endangered sectors related to products and animals and other illegal acts relating have priority when they have a tight services which affect the health of to international trade. connection and the time to change the population. It is responsible for planes will be very short. health surveillance at airports, ports SAC-PR – Civil Aviation Secretary of and borders. the Presidency of the Republic www.aviacaocivil.gov.br (pt) DFP – Department of Federal Police Secretary with ministerial status www.dpf.gov.br (pt) who formulates, coordinates In the area of civil aviation, it is and oversees policies for the in charge of international traffic development of civil aviation and control. It is responsible for the airport infrastructure and civil. issuing and renewing of entry visas aeronautics infrastructure. for foreigners to Brazil. MORE USEFUL INFORMATION Infraero – Brazilian Airport Information on Brazilian embassies Infrastructure Company and consulates around the world: www.infraero.gov.br (en/es/pt) www.portalconsular.mre.gov.br (pt) State-owned company which World clock and map of world provides airport and air navigation time zones: 24timezones.com infrastructure and services. It is Tracking flights in real-time: responsible for the implementation, www.flightradar24.com; administration, operation and planefinder.net
54 ABEAR AND MEMbers SEE THE BEST OF BRAZIL! DON’T MISS THE OPORTUNITY TO TRAVEL AROUND A COUNTRY FULL OF FLAVORS, HISTORY, abear ADVENTURE AND NATURE www.abear.com.br (en/es/pt) Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are excellent starting points for those who AIRLINEs want to see the best of Brazil. The two cities have direct flights to the country’s main tourist destinations - like the state capitals of the South, 5 avianca Brasil 5 latam Airlines Southeast, Midwest (Campo Grande and Cuiabá are starting points to Telephone numbers in Brazil: 0800 Telephone numbers in Brazil: 4002 286 6543 and 0800 286 5445 (for 5700 (capital cities), 0300 570 explore the Pantanal), North (Manaus and Belém are entry points to the the hearing impaired) 5700 (other cities) and 0800 555 Amazon region) and Northeast regions. But you don’t have to get on a www.avianca.com.br (en/es/pt) 500 (for the hearing impaired) plane to be delightfully surprised by the country’s wonders. From Rio, by USEFUL LINKS AND CONTACTS AND LINKS USEFUL Information for passengers with www.latam.com (de/en/es/fr/it/pt) car or bus, one can visit the beautiful beaches of Arraial do Cabo, Búzios special needs: Information for passengers with and Ilha Grande, and the preserved historical center of Paraty. In São Paulo, goo.gl/9bcyRe special needs: follow the coast to learn the history of Santos and see the surprising goo.gl/Wh19Pi waterfronts of São Sebastião and Ubatuba. For more information, go to the 5 Azul website www.turismobrasil.gov.br to see what the country offers and plan Telephone numbers in Brazil: 4003 5 tap 1118 (capital cities), 0800 887 Telephone numbers in Brazil: 0300 your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip! 1118 (other cities) and 0800 881 210 6060, 0800 727 2347 and 0500 (for the hearing impaired) 0800 7007 707 (for the hearing www.voeazul.com.br (en/pt) impaired) Information for passengers with www.flytap.com (cn/cz/dk/en/es/ special needs: fi/fr/gr/hr/hu/nl/no/pl/pt/ro/ru/ goo.gl/1vQdHG sv/tr/uk) Information for passengers with 5 gol special needs: Telephone numbers in Brazil: 0800 goo.gl/7sSRDk 704 0465 and 0800 709 0466 (for the hearing impaired) www.voegol.com.br (en/es/pt) Information for passengers with The advice presented in this guide is based on rules and regulations established special needs: by various regulatory bodies and airlines and is subject to change. If in doubt, goo.gl/eTP53j always check with the airline or the appropriate authorities before you travel. Content updated in May 2016. www.abear.com.br