Severe rainfall leads to two-hour shutdown of Belo Horizonte/Confins International Airport.

Heavy Rain Forces Closure of Belo Horizonte’s Confins Airport

Belo Horizonte’s Confins International Airport was forced to suspend operations for approximately two hours on January 29 due to intense thunderstorms that flooded the runways. The suspension led to significant delays and cancellations affecting key domestic routes to São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília.

While operations resumed before midday, airlines continued to experience disruptions throughout the afternoon. Azul Airlines cancelled nine flights, arranging alternate transport for passengers via Pampulha and Uberlândia. Meanwhile, LATAM reported connection mis-shows that left travellers stranded on international itineraries.

What We Know

• The closure of the airport lasted about two hours.
• Staff were deployed to expedite the re-booking process for affected travellers.
• Queues at taxi ranks extended over 200 meters once services resumed.
• Passengers can file reimbursement claims for delays through Consumidor.gov.br.
• BH Airport plans to expedite drainage upgrades to better handle heavy rains.

What’s Still Unclear

Details regarding the specific number of passengers affected beyond those on cancelled flights have not been confirmed.

What This Means

For business travellers, this incident highlights the importance of maintaining updated itineraries and documentation, especially during the January-March rainy season in Minas Gerais. Companies are advised to secure contingency hotel arrangements and include buffer days in their assignments.

Passengers facing delays should be aware of their rights under ANAC regulations, which require airlines to provide accommodation if delays exceed four hours; however, practical enforcement may vary.

What to Watch Next

Updates from BH Airport regarding drainage improvements and any further operational changes are expected as inspections and repairs progress.

Original source: Open the source