Travel Setbacks Hit Brazil as LATAM and GOL Linhas Aéreas Experience Four Flight Cancellations and Multiple Delays, Disrupting Major Airports in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro

Published on November 25, 2025

Travel setbacks have struck Brazil as two major airlines, LATAM and GOL Linhas Aéreas, face significant disruptions. These disruptions include four flight cancellations and a series of multiple delays that have created chaos at major airports in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Passengers have been left frustrated as the cancellations and delays ripple through the flight schedules, causing a domino effect on connecting flights. LATAM and GOL Linhas Aéreas are struggling to manage the fallout, with passengers experiencing long waiting times and uncertainty about their travel plans. These setbacks have not only affected daily travelers but also created major inconveniences for business and leisure passengers alike. As the situation unfolds, both airlines are working to resolve the issue, but the disruptions have already caused significant disruption at these key hubs in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with no immediate end in sight.

Affected Cities and Airports

The two major cities and their corresponding airports in Brazil. The first is São Paulo, home to São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport, a key hub for both domestic and international flights. The second city is Rio de Janeiro, where Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport serves as the main international gateway. These airports are vital to the country’s air travel infrastructure and are currently facing disruptions due to flight cancellations and delays caused by LATAM and GOL Linhas Aéreas.

Flight Cancellations

Affected Airlines

The two major airlines operating in Brazil: LATAM Brasil and GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes. LATAM Brasil, one of the largest carriers in Latin America, has experienced cancellations and delays at key airports, including those in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Similarly, GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, another prominent Brazilian airline, has also faced significant disruptions, impacting its flight schedules. Both airlines are dealing with the challenges of managing their operations amidst these unexpected setbacks.

Overview of Flight cancellations

The total of 4 flight cancellations at two major Brazilian airports. LATAM Brasil experienced 2 cancelled flights at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport, while GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes also had 2 cancellations at Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport. While these cancellations make up a small percentage of overall flights (0% for LATAM in São Paulo and 1% for GOL in Rio), they still contribute to significant operational disruptions. The cancellations are part of a broader pattern of delays, with LATAM experiencing 65 delays and GOL facing 18 delays. These disruptions can cause considerable inconvenience for passengers, including rescheduling, longer waiting times, and connecting flight issues. Even a small number of cancellations at such key hubs can have a ripple effect, highlighting the challenges airlines face in managing operations during periods of disruption.

What to Do if Your Flight Gets Cancelled: A Quick Guide

Flight cancellations can be frustrating, but knowing the right steps to take can help minimize stress. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:

Stay Updated
Monitor your email, phone, and the airline’s app for rebooking confirmation or further announcements.

Stay Calm and Check for Updates
As soon as you learn your flight is canceled, stay calm and check for updates. Many airlines will notify you via text, email, or their app. Visit the airline’s website for real-time updates on the situation.

Contact the Airline
Reach out to the airline’s customer service either in person at the airport or over the phone. If you’re at the airport, head to the service desk. If you’re not, try calling or using the airline’s online chat system to avoid waiting in long queues.

Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cancellations. Many airlines offer rebooking options or compensation, especially if the cancellation is within their control. In the EU, for example, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain conditions.

Consider Alternative Flights
Ask the airline about the next available flight. If you can’t find a suitable option, consider booking a new flight through another airline, or check for other forms of transport like trains or buses.

The flight cancellations and delays at São Paulo-Guarulhos and Rio de Janeiro/Galeão airports reflect significant disruptions in Brazil’s air travel. Both LATAM Brasil and GOL Linhas Aéreas have faced operational challenges, impacting many passengers. While the cancellations represent a small percentage of total flights, the resulting delays have created considerable inconvenience. This situation underscores the vulnerability of air travel, where even minor disruptions can affect thousands of passengers. As both airlines work to resolve the issue, passengers must remain adaptable, and air traffic management must continue to improve efficiency to minimize future setbacks.

Source: FlightAware and affected airports