Brazil Hits Record 42M Air Passengers Even as Airlines Warn of a Slump

Brazil recorded a record 42 million domestic air passengers in the first five months of 2026, even as airlines warn a fuel-driven shock could still derail travel later in the year. Brazil’s aviation regulator published the figures for January to May, compiled from data by ANAC, showing the highest total for that period since records began in 2000. The total was up 6% from 39.8 million in the same months of the previous year, with May reaching 8.31 million, a monthly high. International travel also grew, with 12.8 million foreign passenger movements over five months (+10%) and May rising 5% to 2.23 million. However, the monthly pace cooled, with domestic growth in May at 2% versus 6.5% across January to April. IATA forecasts Brazil could lose around 10 million passengers in 2026, and airlines have already started cutting capacity. Azul CEO John Rodgerson said the carrier reduced flying by about 5%, prioritizing fewer cuts in remote regional routes where fuel is most expensive.