Florianópolis: A Strategic Air Cargo Gateway in Latin America

Florianópolis is emerging as a pivotal air cargo hub in Latin America, bolstered by enhanced international routes at Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN). Operated by Floripa Airport, a subsidiary of Zurich Airport Brasil, FLN has been recognized as Brazil's best airport for five consecutive years, according to the Aviação + Brasil Awards, achieving an impressive passenger satisfaction score of 4.74 out of 5 in 2024.

According to Ricardo Gesse , CEO of Zurich Airport Brasil, "The recognition of FLN as one of the best-rated airports in Brazil is the result of operational excellence, customer focus, and well-directed commercial strategies. In air cargo, this includes close relationships with freight operators, investments in infrastructure, and extended operating hours that reduce clearance time and increase predictability."

In September 2024, TAP Air Portugal commenced three weekly direct flights between Lisbon and Florianópolis, establishing the first nonstop connection between southern Brazil and Europe. Ricardo Gesse points out that this route has already led to increased interest from exporters, especially in the textile and metal-mechanic sectors. “Flights to Lisbon now carry an average of 10 tons of exports, with strong performance on the import side as well,” he explains. This direct connection helps reduce time and costs by eliminating the need for shipments to transit through Southeast Brazil.

Further enhancing FLN's connectivity, Copa Airlines operates flights linking Florianópolis to Panama City, providing access to North American markets through efficient onward connections. Regional services by Aerolíneas Argentinas and Sky Airline connect FLN to Buenos Aires and Santiago de Chile, respectively. Starting December 2, 2025, LATAM Airlines will launch a direct route between Lima and Florianópolis, further strengthening intra-regional trade and facilitating cargo movements to the Asia-Pacific region via Peru's strategic Pacific hub.

“Florianópolis is well-positioned in the Southern Cone and offers fast access to Santa Catarina’s industrial base. These international links allow us to connect key South American markets efficiently and complement the major hubs in the Southeast,” adds Gesse. To support this growth, Zurich Airport Brasil has invested over R$ 10 million in the past year to expand and modernize FLN’s cargo terminal, including new refrigerated areas and increased storage capacity. This year, efforts are focused on acquiring heavy-duty equipment, such as a 16-ton forklift, and expanding client service areas.

As FLN continues to expand its international connectivity under the management of Zurich Airport Brasil, Forvm remains committed to delivering logistics solutions tailored to businesses seeking efficient, reliable, and cost-effective cargo services.