Booking Flights to Brazil in Brazil: what actually matters to know

For entry into Brazil, airlines are required by law to verify that foreign tourists have a return ticket or a ticket to a third country. While Russian border guards typically do not check return tickets for entry into Russia, the airline is responsible for enforcing the entry requirements of the destination country. It is advisable to ensure all necessary travel documents and return tickets meet the destination country's regulations.

However, post-sale service is managed by Filipino support agents, making changes difficult. Special requests like booking an infant bassinet through Trip.com often fail (though airline staff may resolve this onboard). Also, beware that domestic Brazilian tickets purchased through third-party aggregators like Kupibilet can take up to 48 hours to be issued.

Services like Decolar (similar to Trip.com) offer this. While these tickets are typically more expensive, they allow for a full refund under certain conditions. This can be useful for flexibility, allowing you to cancel and recoup costs if plans change. Alternatively, for visa or stay extensions, consider traveling to a neighboring state with potentially simpler procedures.

If booking directly on the airline's website, users can complete the booking and receive a separate payment link via email, which may accept international/CIS cards (note that a small processing fee may apply). Alternatively, use Trip.com to check and book.

While Latam (LA) is also a major carrier, it's advisable to check direct booking or use aggregators if direct access is problematic. All three airlines are generally considered reliable for domestic travel in Brazil. VoePass (V3) is another option.

Experts recommend booking at least 3 months in advance. Comparison tools like Skyscanner or Trip.com are often competitive with official airline sites and sometimes offer lower fares. Note that Brazilian airlines like GOL may require a CPF for booking on official sites.

Changes in aircraft configuration can cause booking disruptions. Resolving the issue via phone, potentially through hotel assistance if direct calls are difficult, is recommended. Arriving at the airport early to address the problem is also an option.

Some airlines may specifically require their own return flight booking. Additionally, having a confirmed hotel reservation is sometimes a requirement. This is particularly relevant for travelers planning routes that might transit through hubs like Istanbul or head to destinations such as Ethiopia or Morocco.

Booking directly with airlines (e.g., Royal Air Maroc) via their local office/call center can allow payment with Russian bank cards and potentially lower prices compared to third-party aggregators.

Airlines can provide payment links for credit card transactions, including for Brazilian Real transactions via local bank accounts (e.g., in Alfa-Bank). Changes to return dates can also be arranged via email.

Advise passengers to book a refundable return ticket to a nearby country to avoid issues at check-in, as many airlines refuse boarding for one-way international tickets, especially without a clear long-term visa or proof of residency.

Inquiring about: 1. Minimum duration for a return ticket to Russia to ensure boarding in Brazil. 2. Possibility of booking a return ticket to a third country (e.g., Argentina) 10 days after arrival. 3. Required hotel booking duration (e.g., one day vs. full stay).

Risk of missed connections is significantly higher, as separate tickets do not guarantee protection for subsequent segments if the first flight is delayed.