Fraport Brasil Wins Jericoacoara Airport Concession in Brazil: Major Modernization Plans to Boost Tourism and Regional Growth by 2026

Published on December 1, 2025

Fraport Brasil S.A. Aeroporto de Fortaleza, a fully owned subsidiary of Fraport AG, has successfully won the public bidding process to operate Jericoacoara Airport (JJD) in northeastern Brazil. This decision marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion within Brazil, as it already manages Fortaleza Airport under a separate concession. Fraport Brasil plans to take control of Jericoacoara Airport by the fall of 2026, continuing its growth in the Brazilian aviation sector.

Expanding Operations Through the AmpliAR Program

The Brazilian government’s AmpliAR program, designed to integrate regional airports into existing concessions, played a pivotal role in the award of this concession. Jericoacoara Airport will be incorporated into the ongoing concession for Fortaleza Airport, creating a unified management structure that will last until 2047. The contract signing is expected to occur in the spring of 2026, contingent upon the final approvals.

This expansion aligns with Fraport Brasil’s long-term vision to consolidate its operations in the Brazilian state of Ceará. By integrating Jericoacoara Airport into its existing portfolio, Fraport Brasil will manage both Fortaleza and Jericoacoara airports, enhancing its presence in one of Brazil’s most sought-after travel destinations.

Comprehensive Concession for Jericoacoara Airport

The concession granted to Fraport Brasil encompasses the management and operation of various facilities at Jericoacoara Airport. This includes overseeing the passenger terminal, as well as the associated landside and airside infrastructure. The company will also be responsible for the retail and parking areas, ensuring a well-rounded and efficient airport experience for both travelers and commercial partners.

As part of its commitment to the development of Jericoacoara Airport, Fraport Brasil has pledged to make significant investments in the modernization of the airport during the first three years of operations. These upgrades are expected to improve the overall passenger experience and support the growing demand for tourism in the region.

Promoting Tourism in Ceará

Fraport CEO, Dr. Stefan Schulte, expressed his enthusiasm for expanding the company’s operations in Brazil, emphasizing the potential for Jericoacoara Airport to become a key gateway for tourism in Ceará. With the company’s extensive experience in airport management and development, Dr. Schulte stated that Fraport Brasil would leverage its expertise to enhance Jericoacoara’s airport infrastructure and actively promote tourism in the region.

Jericoacoara is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including expansive beaches, stunning dune formations, crystal-clear lagoons, and one of Brazil’s most famous national parks. The region has become increasingly popular among both domestic and international tourists, with Jericoacoara Airport handling approximately 212,000 passengers in 2024. This growth in passenger numbers highlights the increasing appeal of Jericoacoara as a top-tier tourist destination in Brazil.

By investing in the modernization of Jericoacoara Airport, Fraport Brasil aims to meet the evolving needs of the tourism sector and strengthen Ceará’s position as a leading travel destination in Brazil. These investments will play a vital role in improving the airport’s facilities, making it more efficient and accessible for airlines, travelers, and tourism operators.

Fraport’s Growing Footprint in Brazil

Fraport AG has been a significant player in Brazil’s aviation sector since 2017, when the company first took over the operations of Fortaleza and Porto Alegre airports under separate concessions. Over the past several years, Fraport has worked diligently to modernize these airports, implementing improvements that enhance both operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

The integration of Jericoacoara Airport into Fraport Brasil’s portfolio is part of the company’s long-term strategy to expand its footprint in the Brazilian market. With its track record of successfully modernizing airports and fostering regional development, Fraport Brasil is well-positioned to lead the charge in improving regional air transport infrastructure in Brazil.

In addition to its ongoing projects in Fortaleza and Porto Alegre, Fraport Brasil’s involvement in Jericoacoara Airport underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing Brazil’s regional aviation landscape. By consolidating the management of these airports, Fraport Brasil will be able to streamline operations, foster greater cooperation between airports, and enhance the overall travel experience for passengers traveling to and from the Ceará region.

Jericoacoara’s Growing Appeal to Global Travelers

As one of Brazil’s most popular tourist destinations, Jericoacoara is known for its unique mix of natural beauty, adventure tourism, and cultural richness. The region’s pristine beaches, dramatic dunes, and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal location for a wide range of outdoor activities, including kite surfing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Jericoacoara National Park is another major draw for visitors, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and abundant opportunities for exploration. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including freshwater lagoons and coastal dunes, are a haven for nature lovers and eco-tourism enthusiasts.

As the region continues to attract more travelers, the demand for efficient, modernized airport infrastructure has become increasingly important. With Fraport Brasil at the helm, Jericoacoara Airport is set to meet this growing demand while continuing to support the local economy through increased tourism and job creation.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Ceará’s Tourism

Fraport Brasil’s win of the Jericoacoara Airport concession represents a significant step forward for both the company and the state of Ceará. With plans to modernize the airport and strengthen its tourism offerings, Fraport Brasil is poised to help drive the development of Jericoacoara as a world-class travel destination. By integrating Jericoacoara into the Fortaleza concession framework, Fraport Brasil will create a seamless connection between Ceará’s main cities and the region’s stunning natural attractions, offering tourists a more integrated and convenient travel experience.

With the expertise and experience gained from operating Fortaleza and Porto Alegre airports, Fraport Brasil is well-equipped to oversee the continued growth of Ceará’s aviation and tourism sectors. The improvements planned for Jericoacoara Airport will ensure that it continues to meet the needs of travelers, airlines, and the growing tourism industry, positioning the region as one of Brazil’s leading destinations for both international and domestic visitors.