The National Football League (NFL) is set to make a historic move by hosting a game in São Paulo, Brazil for the first time ever. This inaugural match, set for September 6, 2024, marks the opening of the 2024 NFL season and represents the league’s expanding international reach. The Philadelphia Eagles will host the Green Bay Packers, highlighting the league’s effort to connect with its growing global fanbase, including an estimated 35 million fans in Brazil.

The game

Aerial View of Itaquera District in Sao Paulo, Brazil

The game will be played at the iconic Itaquera Stadium, also known as Neo Quimica Arena, home to the Corinthians Football Club in Sao Paulo, Monday, Sept. 6, 2024 in front of 47,252 spectators. You can read more details on this year’s game here.

Preferred Airports

Aerial view of Guarulhos airport in Sao Paulo, Brazil

While São Paulo Guarulhos (SBGR) is the nearest major airport, Universal Aviation Brazil also recommends considering São Paulo Congonhas (SBSP) and São Paulo Catarina (SBJH) as potentially less congested alternatives. Each offers unique advantages, from closer proximity to luxury facilities.

• SBGR Airport: Located closest to Itaquera Stadium, it’s a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic. Plan ahead for limited parking spots. This is a 24/7 airport with full services available. Airport slots aren’t required but prior permission required (PPR) is needed. As the airport doesn’t have a public parking area, operators looking to stay here overnight will need to reserve parking at the private apron.
• SBSP Airport: Offers plenty of hangar options, but slots are harder to secure. We recommend scheduling your entire itinerary in advance, including permits and slot registration with CGNA.  SBSP operates daily from 0600-2300 local with no airport overtime possible. Airport slots are required at all times. As this is not an airport of entry (AOE), you’ll first need to land at an AOE in Brazil before proceeding to SBSP. You’ll need to use private hangars for overnight GA parking, as ramp parking is unavailable for non-commercial flights. Prices vary for private hangar parking but generally range between 1000 and 1500 USD/per night. The good news is that towing charges are included in overnight parking rates to/from the hangar area.
• SBJH Airport: This is the newest airport in São Paulo, built exclusively for executive/general aviation. SBJH is a private airport by JHSF group, owners of Fasano Hotel. Distance from São Paulo downtown to SBJH airport is 1h15m of driving time, approximately 75km. They are already cleared to perform international operations; however, they have a few restrictions due to federal authorities’ shift.

Security

At most airports in Brazil, arranging a guard to watch over your aircraft airside is possible. It must be set up at least 24 hours in advance to obtain airport authority approval. Guards must have proper security licensing and certificates and be unarmed. Off-airport security considerations are similar to other major world centers. In public areas, it’s recommended not to flash jewelry, cash, or talk too much on expensive mobile phones.

In-flight catering options

It’s best to provide a minimum of 24 hours notification for catering orders and 48 hours if special items, wines, or cuisines need to be sourced. The best options are established in-flight caterers who can deliver orders directly to your aircraft. Upon international arrival, all open catering must be disposed of. Unfortunately, there are no options in the Sao Paulo area to store leftover catering at the airport. However, sealed and/or sterile food items may be offloaded and taken to your hotel.

Hotels

Aerial View of Tatuape, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Expect hotel prices to be higher than usual during the game weekend. Still, we expect an adequate supply of four-star crew accommodations to be available. Prices for four-star crew accommodations will range from 200-400 USD/night.

Universal Aviation Brazil can offer discounts with popular global hotel chains. However, it’s essential to make your reservations in advance to guarantee your spot. While there are excellent hotel options near Itaquera Stadium in the Tatuapé and Analia Franco areas, for the ultimate São Paulo experience, we recommend staying near Paulista Avenue. This vibrant area offers a myriad of culinary delights, world-class shows, events, and luxurious accommodations. If you do choose to stay in this area, you can ensure a hassle-free journey, as from Paulista Avenue, you can conveniently access the Corinthians-Itaquera subway station, which leads directly to the stadium.

Local transport

If you choose to stay in a different part of the city, we recommend pre-paid (car with driver) options for local transport and avoiding public taxis. UBER also works well in this area, but ensuring you’ll have a driver who speaks your language isn’t easy. Universal Aviation Brazil can also arrange private transportation for operators.

Conclusion

The first-ever NFL game in Brazil will take place Sept. 6, 2024 and is expected to be a major high-traffic event for Sao Paulo. The city has multiple airport options. Universal Aviation Brazil can help you choose the right one, as well as secure third-party services such as hotels, catering, and ground transportation.