Afonso Pena Airport: the complete guide for your trip

Introduction

Welcome to our complete guide to Afonso Pena International Airport, in São José dos Pinhais, in the Curitiba metropolitan region, Paraná. This is one of the most important airports in southern Brazil, known for its modern infrastructure and excellent passenger service. In this article you will find everything you need for a calm, efficient trip through the airport.

Afonso Pena International Airport, in São José dos Pinhais, Curitiba metropolitan region

The history of Afonso Pena Airport

Opening and growth

Afonso Pena Airport opened in 1946 and has been a decisive point for aviation in Paraná ever since. Named after the former Brazilian president Afonso Pena, the airport has been modernised several times to keep up with growing air traffic and improve the passenger experience.

Modernisation and expansion

In recent years the airport has gone through significant refurbishment and expansion. In 2016 a new passenger terminal opened, raising capacity and improving facilities to meet growing demand, with larger retail areas and more places to eat.

Location and access

Geography and climate

The airport sits about 18 km from the centre of Curitiba, which makes the city's main tourist and business areas easy to reach. Curitiba is known for its subtropical climate, with cold winters and mild summers, which makes the region pleasant to travel to all year round.

Public transport

The airport is well served by an efficient public transport network. Several bus routes connect it to central Curitiba and other parts of the metropolitan region. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available 24 hours a day.

Car rental

For anyone who prefers to explore the region with more freedom, Afonso Pena Airport offers several car rental options. Well-known companies such as Hertz, Localiza and Movida have desks in the passenger terminal.

Facilities at Afonso Pena Airport

Terminals

Afonso Pena Airport has one modern main terminal serving both domestic and international flights. It is equipped with a wide range of passenger services and facilities, including check-in areas, security control, departure and arrival areas, and a variety of shopping and dining options.

Food and shopping

The airport offers a variety of dining options, from cafés and fast food to more refined restaurants. There are also several shops, duty-free included, where passengers can buy Brazilian and international brands.

VIP lounges

For anyone looking for more comfort, the airport has VIP lounges offering exclusive services such as Wi-Fi, complimentary drinks and snacks, rest areas and showers.

Parking

If you are flying out of Afonso Pena Airport and driving there yourself, you have two options: the car park inside the terminal, charged by the hour and by the day by the airport itself, or a car park near Afonso Pena Airport, with a transfer to departures.

• The official Afonso Pena Airport car park: inside the terminal complex, open 24 hours, with 4,032 spaces. Prices are higher, so it makes sense for short stays.
• Parking near Afonso Pena Airport: medium-term options, a short distance from the terminal.

Travel tips

Check-in and baggage

Checking in online saves time. Check your airline's baggage policy to avoid extra fees and delays.

Security and documents

Make sure you have every document you need, passport and visa included where they apply. Get to the airport early so you can clear security without rushing.

Health and safety

The airport keeps strict safety and health protocols in place, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Medical posts and pharmacies are available for any emergency.

Exploring Curitiba

Attractions nearby

After landing at the airport, visitors have easy access to several attractions in Curitiba, such as the Botanical Garden, the Oscar Niemeyer Museum and Parque Tanguá.

Culture and food

Curitiba is known for its rich culture and excellent food. Do not miss the chance to try typical dishes of Paraná cuisine at well-regarded restaurants in the city.

Conclusion

Curitiba International Airport is one of Brazil's main airports, offering modern infrastructure and a broad range of services for a comfortable, efficient journey. We hope this complete guide has given you everything you need for your next visit.

Frequently asked questions

What is the official name and location of Curitiba Airport?

Afonso Pena International Airport, IATA code CWB, in São José dos Pinhais, in the Curitiba metropolitan region. It serves the state capital, much of the coast and the interior of Paraná, and it is the state's main airport.

How do you reach Afonso Pena by car?

The main access is the BR-277 and the Contorno Leste, which link Curitiba to São José dos Pinhais. The journey tends to be short, and most of the time goes to city traffic during the capital's rush hours.

Does Afonso Pena operate 24 hours?

The airport runs flights throughout the day, concentrated in the early morning and late afternoon. The two partner lots listed operate 24 hours, which covers drop-off and collection outside business hours.

Where do the car parks sit in relation to the Curitiba terminal?

The official one is inside the complex, reachable on foot. The partners are outside, 1.4 km and 2.6 km from the terminal in August 2026, both with their own stated five-minute transfer to departures.

How much does it cost to leave the car during a trip through Curitiba?

In August 2026 a week started at R$ 118.30 for an uncovered spot, at Abbapark. The three-day minimum applies at both partners, so a one-day trip is charged as three.