Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN)

Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN), also known as Floripa Airport, is the primary gateway to the island of Florianópolis and the state of Santa Catarina. The airport underwent a massive transformation in October 2019 with the opening of a brand-new, 49,000-square-meter terminal building that is four times larger than the previous facility. This state-of-the-art terminal is capable of handling up to 8 million passengers annually and has consistently been rated as one of the best airports in Brazil for its efficiency and modern design. A unique feature of the airport is 'Boulevard 14/32,' a large 11,000-square-meter indoor and outdoor entertainment and shopping plaza located directly in front of the terminal entrance. This area is open to the public and features a wide variety of gastronomic choices, retail shops, and a regular schedule of cultural events and live music. Inside the terminal, passengers can enjoy a panoramic terrace with stunning views of the runway and aircraft operations. Amenities are world-class, including 10 airbridges, numerous check-in counters, duty-free shopping, and premium lounges such as the Lounge Floripa, providing a comfortable space for both domestic and international travelers. Flight operations at FLN are extensive, with major Brazilian carriers like Azul, GOL, and LATAM providing frequent daily links to São Paulo (GRU and CGH), Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. The airport also serves as a key international hub for southern Brazil, with low-cost carriers like SKY Airline and JetSMART offering direct flights to Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. Ground transportation is well-organized, with several bus lines connecting the terminal to the city's central bus terminal (TICEN), as well as dedicated taxi ranks and ride-sharing zones. The airport is situated approximately 14 kilometers south of the city center, and travelers are advised to allow extra time during the peak summer holiday season when the island's population significantly increases.