Some of the main points of embarkation and disembarkation of tourists in the country and the world, the airports of Maceió (AL), Recife (PE) and Juazeiro do Norte (CE) surpassed the movement of passengers in the pre-pandemic period. According to a survey carried out by the Ministry of Tourism and released this Wednesday (04.05), the terminals in the capitals of Alagoas and Pernambuco registered, respectively, in the first three months of this year, rates 12,9% and 3,15% higher than the same period of 2020. The Ceará airport recorded a 10,6% increase.

Also according to the survey, other airports in the Northeast region, such as Natal (RN), Salvador (BA) and Fortaleza (CE), are close to surpassing the number recorded in the first quarter of 2020. The Potiguar terminal, for example, it was only 1,4% below the number of passengers recorded two years ago. Those in the capitals of Bahia and Ceará are around 8% and 9%, respectively, lower than the pre-pandemic period.

The Minister of Tourism, Carlos Brito, highlighted the importance that the region has for national tourism and what these numbers represent for the sector. “This is data that shows the strength and dedication of our sector in resuming travel around the country, which generates jobs and development for different regions. In addition, of course, to demonstrating the interest and demand of Brazilians for travel, getting to know or rediscovering the natural beauties of our region”, he said.

A study carried out by the Opinion Box Institute, pointed out that among the 10 most sought after destinations for the summer, five were in the Northeast. Among the first appear Recife (PE), Salvador (BA) and Fortaleza (CE). The list also brought Maceió (AL), appearing in 8th place and Natal (RN), right after. The northeastern capitals were also the main choices in the last holidays in the country, according to Booking.com – one of the largest travel reservation platforms in the country.

DOUBLE THE PASSENGERS – The movement of passengers has also been growing in the other airports in the country. Data from the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), pointed out that more than 6,4 million people traveled through national flights in March. The number represents double the number of travelers registered in the same period last year and is 16% higher than in the previous month, in February, when 5,5 million people passed through the country's airports.

Among the busiest, the Guarulhos and Viracopos terminals stood out, registering together more than half of the total: 2,66 million and 962,1 thousand, respectively.

Street: Ministry of Tourism