Flamengo fans boost Rio airport traffic ahead of Libertadores final

Flamengo supporters packed Rio de Janeiro's Galeão International Airport on Friday (28th), the eve of the Copa Libertadores final against Palmeiras in Lima, Peru. According to airport operator RioGaleão, 25 additional flights were scheduled between 26th November and 2nd December, transporting approximately 3,500 extra passengers. The highly anticipated match between the Brazilian rivals is scheduled for Saturday (30th) at 6pm local time.

Emotional Departures

Among the travelling fans was personal trainer Igor Guimarães, who apologised to his Vasco da Gama-supporting wife before his first international trip. "My heart is racing, I'm quite confident but there's some nervousness too. Faith that Flamengo will win," Guimarães stated. "I left my Vasco fan wife Stephany at home. My love, I'm sorry, it's for Flamengo."

Civil police officer André Diniz revealed this wasn't his first Libertadores final abroad, having attended the 2019 decider in Lima with his brother. "That's exactly why I couldn't miss going to bring the trophy home this year," Diniz explained.

Operational Impact

The significant passenger surge required coordinated efforts from RioGaleão to manage the additional flight operations and crowd control. Airport authorities confirmed all extra flights were successfully accommodated without disrupting regular operations. The influx represents one of the largest fan mobilisations for a South American club match this season.

Brazilian clubs have dominated recent Copa Libertadores tournaments, with this marking the third all-Brazilian final in four years. Flamengo seeks their third continental title while Palmeiras aims for their fourth trophy in the competition.