Fraport Brasil Wins Concession to Operate Jericoacoara Airport in Brazil Until 2047

Published on December 2, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Fraport Brasil S.A. Aeroporto de Fortaleza has won the coveted concession to operate Jericoacoara Airport (JJD) in northeastern Brazil. This new venture extends Fraport Brasil’s reach, enhancing its role in the Brazilian aviation sector. The takeover, planned for the fall of 2026, is part of the Brazilian government’s AmpliAR programme, which integrates regional airports into existing concessions. This win marks an exciting chapter for Fraport Brasil as it will now manage both Jericoacoara and Fortaleza airports in Ceará until 2047. The concession includes the operation of passenger terminals, retail areas, and parking facilities, with major investments in modernising the airport.

Fraport’s expansion into the Jericoacoara Airport operation is a significant development for both the company and Brazil’s aviation sector. The airport, a gateway to one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, is expected to see greater investment, modernisation, and improvements to enhance the travel experience for visitors. Jericoacoara’s stunning beaches, lagoons, and dunes attract thousands of tourists each year, making it a crucial entry point to Ceará’s vibrant tourism scene. With Fraport’s extensive experience in modernising airports, the future of Jericoacoara Airport looks brighter than ever, ensuring an enhanced experience for millions of travellers.

Fraport Brasil’s Expansion: Operating Jericoacoara Airport and Fortaleza

Fraport Brasil S.A. Aeroporto de Fortaleza has successfully secured the rights to operate Jericoacoara Airport in Brazil, marking a key milestone in the company’s journey to expanding its presence in the country. As a 100% subsidiary of Fraport AG, which already manages the Fortaleza Airport, Fraport Brasil’s win in the public bidding process for Jericoacoara Airport means it will oversee both airports in the Brazilian state of Ceará. The company will officially take over operations at Jericoacoara in the fall of 2026. This expansion is an integral part of the Brazilian government’s efforts to integrate regional airports into existing concessions, promoting more efficient airport operations throughout the country.

The agreement includes managing passenger terminals, retail spaces, and parking areas. Fraport Brasil’s commitment to investing in the airport’s modernisation during the first three years of its operations will help increase the airport’s capacity and streamline services. Jericoacoara Airport, which welcomed over 212,000 passengers in 2024, is a vital hub for the state’s thriving tourism industry. Its pristine beaches, striking dunes, and picturesque lagoons draw both domestic and international visitors, with many travellers seeking access to Jericoacoara National Park, one of Brazil’s most renowned natural reserves.

The takeover of Jericoacoara Airport will enhance the region’s tourism infrastructure, offering an improved travel experience for passengers while ensuring the airport’s seamless integration with Fortaleza Airport. Fraport’s ability to bring modernisation and international standards to its operations bodes well for the future growth of both airports in Ceará.

Fraport Brasil and the AmpliAR Programme: A Strategic Expansion

The concession of Jericoacoara Airport to Fraport Brasil S.A. is part of the Brazilian government’s AmpliAR programme, which aims to improve regional airport infrastructure by incorporating smaller airports into larger existing airport operations. The programme seeks to boost regional connectivity and tourism, providing a more unified and efficient management structure for these airports. Jericoacoara Airport will now be operated under the same concession that governs Fortaleza Airport, extending Fraport Brasil’s management contract until 2047.

This strategic expansion reflects Fraport AG’s ongoing commitment to Brazil, a country that the company has been actively engaged with since 2017. Fraport Brasil has already made significant strides in modernising both Fortaleza and Porto Alegre airports, enhancing passenger facilities and overall service quality. With its extensive experience in running successful international airports, Fraport Brasil is well-positioned to drive improvements at Jericoacoara Airport, ensuring it meets the growing demands of regional and international travellers.

The government’s AmpliAR programme aims to attract foreign investment and boost the local economy by improving accessibility and infrastructure in key tourist areas. Jericoacoara, with its increasing number of visitors, stands to benefit greatly from the planned investments and the operational efficiencies brought by Fraport Brasil.

Key Features of Jericoacoara Airport and Its Growing Tourism Appeal

Jericoacoara is one of Brazil’s most sought-after tourist destinations, known for its idyllic beaches, dunes, lagoons, and vibrant national park. The region’s popularity has been steadily rising, with thousands of visitors flocking to the area every year to experience its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Jericoacoara National Park, with its sand dunes, lagoons, and protected wildlife, offers one of the most unique landscapes in the country.

As the region continues to grow as a tourist destination, the demand for improved infrastructure, such as better airport facilities and services, has become increasingly evident. With Fraport Brasil’s takeover, Jericoacoara Airport will undergo significant modernisation. The company’s track record in enhancing airports will ensure that the terminal, parking areas, and retail spaces are upgraded to provide a more comfortable and efficient experience for both passengers and airport staff. Investments will focus on increasing capacity, improving services, and streamlining airport operations to accommodate growing tourist numbers.

The airport’s strategic location near the national park and world-class beaches makes it a vital gateway for travellers visiting Ceará. With Fraport’s expertise, the airport will not only become a more efficient travel hub but also a more attractive point of entry for international tourists, boosting the region’s tourism economy.

A Bright Future for Jericoacoara Airport Under Fraport’s Leadership

Fraport Brasil’s acquisition of Jericoacoara Airport aligns with the company’s vision to enhance Brazil’s aviation landscape by integrating regional airports into a broader, more efficient network. The company’s existing success with Fortaleza and Porto Alegre airports demonstrates its ability to modernise and elevate the passenger experience. Fraport’s leadership in the development of Jericoacoara Airport will no doubt strengthen the regional tourism sector, improve local infrastructure, and boost economic growth in Ceará.

As the airport prepares for its operational takeover in 2026, the focus will be on modernising key airport infrastructure, including passenger terminals, parking areas, and retail spaces. The company is committed to ensuring that Jericoacoara Airport meets international standards of quality and service. By investing in the first three years of operation, Fraport Brasil aims to transform the airport into a state-of-the-art facility, ready to handle an increasing number of passengers and support the growth of tourism in the region.

The collaboration between Fraport Brasil and the Brazilian government through the AmpliAR programme signals a new era for regional airports in Brazil. Jericoacoara Airport, with its unparalleled natural beauty and growing international appeal, is set to benefit from these strategic investments, making it an even more attractive destination for visitors worldwide.

Conclusion: Fraport Brasil’s Vision for Jericoacoara Airport’s Growth

Fraport Brasil’s concession to operate Jericoacoara Airport is a milestone for both the company and the local tourism sector. The planned takeover in 2026 will lead to significant improvements in the airport’s infrastructure, helping it cater to the growing number of tourists visiting the region. Fraport’s extensive experience in airport modernisation, along with its strategic focus on regional development, ensures that Jericoacoara Airport’s future is in capable hands.

With the backing of the Brazilian government’s AmpliAR programme, Fraport Brasil is well-positioned to drive the future growth of Jericoacoara Airport, further promoting the region as a prime tourism destination. As the airport becomes an integral part of the Ceará tourism experience, its transformation will contribute to the economic development of the area and provide a more efficient, modern, and welcoming environment for travellers.