Approximately six months before COP30, Belém recorded a 50% increase in scheduled flights

Belém, the capital of Pará, has strengthened its airline network with BRL 470 million in infrastructure investments alongside logistical strategies to ensure the efficient and safe arrival of conference participants

By Maiva D’Auria | COP30

Approximately six months before COP30, which takes place November 10–21, 2025, the preparations to welcome thousands of participants worldwide are in full effect. The organizing committee has taken several measures, including expanding Belém’s airline network. This expansion effort includes a 50% increase in flights scheduled for the event timeframe compared to November 2024.

In coordination with the federal government, the Special Secretariat for COP30 (Secretaria Extraordinária para a COP30/Secop), the Civil Aviation Secretary (Secretaria Nacional de Aviação Civil/SAC) under the Ministry of Ports and Airports (Ministério de Portos e Aeroportos/MPOR), and the National Civil Aviation Agency (Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil/ANAC) implemented arrangements to adjust Belém's airline network to meet the demands of the United Nations Conference.

According to Valter Correia, the Special Secretary for COP30, this collaboration involves multiple integrated actions to ensure the event has efficient and safe air transport.

"We are working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministério das Relações Exteriores/MRE), the airport concessionaire NOA (Norte da Amazônia Airports), MPOR, and airports to handle airport demand — both in terms of airline networks and infrastructure — during COP30. We have upgraded the Belém Air Base, which will receive flights and heads of state. We have expanded the reception and VIP lounges. Furthermore, we are also working to increase the number of international and domestic flights to and from Belém"
— Valter Correia, Special Secretary for COP30

Thanks to these efforts, the slot schedule, which includes authorizations for takeoffs and landings, was released earlier than usual. This allows airlines to plan extra flights and offer them during the conference.

Belém's logistical capacity to welcome leaders, delegations, international organization representatives, civil society members, experts, and journalists to the world's largest event on climate change is strengthened by the increased flight availability.

Commenting on those efforts, Minister of Ports and Airports Silvio Costa Filho emphasized: "The federal government's investments in expanding and modernizing airports across the country — especially in preparation for COP30 — aim to ensure greater comfort, quality service, and safety for passengers. And, of course, these investments generate jobs and income for the population."

Additionally, SAC stated that new executive airports will not be necessary, though it will provide full support to Belém International Airport during COP30 through a BRL 470 million investment in renovation projects and accelerated delivery timelines.

Another crucial measure for ensuring smooth and safe air operations is the adoption of the “parking strategy.” This initiative involves leveraging 27 regional airfields as logistical support bases. These locations will be used for extended aircraft parking, overnight stays, and refueling. This will prevent Belém International Airport from being overwhelmed by the increased volume of flights expected during the event.

This will free up ramps and runways for priority operations, ensuring more efficient boarding and disembarking, minimizing delays, and enhancing the safety of air maneuvers.

Regarding this collective effort, ANAC Director-President Roberto Honorato stressed the importance of integrated coordination. "All the agencies involved in operations at Belém Airport are working together to handle the increased passenger and aircraft demand in full compliance with civil aviation regulations."

English version: Trad. Bárbara Menezes
Proofreading by Enrique Villamil