Investment in the Airport by BNDES Aims for Modernization, Increased Operational Capacity, and Attraction of New International Flights
The Aluízio Alves International Airport, located in São Gonçalo do Amarante, in the metropolitan region of Natal, will receive R$ 260 million for expansion and modernization works. The investment includes R$ 185 million from BNDES (National Bank for Economic and Social Development) and an additional R$ 75 million from two investors from the capital markets, through incentivized debentures, according to the Tribuna do Norte website.
The goal is to increase the operational capacity of the terminal, focusing on cargo logistics, passenger transport, and the expansion of tourist flights.
Economic Growth and New International Flights
During the announcement of the BNDES investment, the president of BNDES, Aloizio Mercadante, emphasized the importance of support for the economic development of Rio Grande do Norte.
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“The goal is to increase the operational capacity of the airport, both in cargo transport and in tourist flights. The expansion will also benefit the logistics of the Postal Service in the state, facilitating the flow of planes and traffic”, Mercadante stated.
In addition to the physical expansion, the airport will feature a new international flight starting in July 2025, connecting Natal to Santiago, Chile. The new route strengthens the position of Rio Grande do Norte as one of the main tourist destinations in the Brazilian Northeast.
International Tourism Driven by PATI
The governor of Rio Grande do Norte, Fátima Bezerra, highlighted that the project is part of the actions of the Northeast Consortium and the International Tourism Acceleration Program (PATI). The program, supported by the federal government through the Ministry of Ports and Airports and the Ministry of Tourism, intends to invest R$ 63 million in promoting tourist destinations in the Brazilian Northeast.
“This investment from BNDES strengthens our infrastructure and boosts tourism, generating jobs and income for the population”, the governor stated.

