Florianópolis–Hercílio Luz International Airport
Serving as the primary aerial gateway to the coastal city of Florianópolis, the Florianópolis–Hercílio Luz International Airport (IATA: FLN, ICAO: SBFL), commonly branded as Floripa Airport, is a vital hub for tourism and commerce in southern Brazil. Named in honor of Hercílio Pedro da Luz, a former senator and three-time governor of Santa Catarina, the airport blends a rich aviation history with modern, world-class infrastructure.
Currently operated by Zurich Airport Brasil, the facility serves as a focus city for major Brazilian carriers including Azul Brazilian Airlines and Gol Transportes Aéreos. Its strategic location and recent expansions have transformed it into a key international link for the region.
Key Facts
- Operator: Zurich Airport Brasil (since 2017).
- Annual Passengers: Over 5.1 million (2025 statistics).
- International Reach: First European connection established in 2024 via TAP Air Portugal to Lisbon.
- Infrastructure: Features a modern terminal opened in 2019 with 14 gates.
- Location: Situated 14 km (9 mi) from downtown Florianópolis.
Historical Evolution
The airport's origins date back to 1927, established on the site of a former Air Naval Base. In its early years, known as Campeche Field, it was utilized by the French Compagnie Générale Aéropostale. This period saw visits from legendary aviators such as Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Jean Mermoz, and Henri Guillaumet.
Between 1942 and 1945, the airport underwent significant development with the construction of the 03/21 runway, a control tower, and the first passenger terminal. The site also began sharing facilities with the Florianópolis Air Force Base of the Brazilian Air Force.
The terminal underwent several iterations, with a major rebuild in the early 1950s and a brand-new facility opening in 1976. This 1976 building was expanded in 1988 and 2000, eventually reaching a size of 8,703 square meters before being transitioned into a cargo terminal.
Modernization and Privatization
A turning point occurred in 1978 with the opening of runway 14/32, which significantly increased traffic capacity. By 1995, the airport achieved international status, welcoming seasonal and charter flights from neighboring South American countries including Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
In March 2017, Flughafen Zürich AG acquired 100% ownership of the airport. This led to a BRL 570 million investment in a new terminal, which officially opened on September 28, 2019. This modern facility includes 11 domestic and 3 international gates and was accompanied by a 100-meter extension of the main runway.
Airport Infrastructure and Operations
Floripa Airport operates as a public/military facility, maintaining a close relationship with the Brazilian Air Force. The airfield is equipped with two primary runways to handle varying traffic needs.
| Direction | Length (m) | Length (ft) | Surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03/21 | 1,320 | 4,331 | Concrete |
| 14/32 | 2,400 | 7,874 | Asphalt |
Airlines and Destinations
The airport is a bustling hub for both domestic and international travel. Major carriers include LATAM, Gol, and Azul, connecting Florianópolis to major Brazilian cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. International connectivity is strong within South America, with frequent flights to Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Asunción. A landmark addition in September 2024 was the launch of nonstop service to Lisbon by TAP Air Portugal.
Cargo Services
Beyond passenger travel, the airport supports logistics through dedicated cargo operations. LATAM Cargo Brasil provides essential links to Miami, while Total Linhas Aéreas connects the region to Curitiba and São Paulo-Guarulhos.
Traffic Statistics
The airport has seen steady growth in passenger volume over the last decade. In 2025, the airport recorded 5,180,583 passengers (a 6% increase) and 49,765 aircraft operations (a 2% increase). This follows a period of significant recovery and growth post-2020.
Safety Record
While the airport maintains high operational standards, its history includes two notable incidents. In March 1951, a Cruzeiro do Sul Douglas C-53D-DO crashed during landing in poor weather, resulting in three fatalities. More significantly, on April 12, 1980, Transbrasil Flight 303 crashed during a night approach in a severe thunderstorm, leading to 55 fatalities out of 58 people on board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently operates Floripa Airport?
The airport is operated by Zurich Airport Brasil, which took over the concession from Infraero in 2017.
Does the airport offer flights to Europe?
Yes, as of September 2024, TAP Air Portugal operates nonstop flights between Florianópolis and Lisbon.
How far is the airport from the city center?
The airport is located approximately 14 km (9 mi) from downtown Florianópolis.
What are the main airlines serving the airport?
The primary airlines include Azul Brazilian Airlines, Gol Transportes Aéreos, and LATAM, along with several international carriers like Aerolíneas Argentinas and JetSmart.
Is the airport used for military purposes?
Yes, some of the airport's facilities are shared with the Florianópolis Air Force Base of the Brazilian Air Force.