As the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP 30) approaches, business aviation operators planning travel to Belém, Brazil, from November 10–21, 2025, should prepare for heightened restrictions, slot requirements, and enhanced security protocols. This guide outlines essential information for smooth operations.

About COP 30

COP 30, hosted by Belém, the capital of Pará state in northern Brazil, will gather world leaders, policymakers, and environmental stakeholders to address global climate goals under the UNFCCC framework. With the World Leaders Climate Action Summit and a wide array of side events, COP 30 will focus on sustainable, inclusive, and biodiversity-driven climate solutions—especially given the Amazon’s central role in climate health.

For official updates, visit the COP 30 website.

Primary Airport: Val de Cans International Airport (SBBE)

Val de Cans International Airport (SBBE) is the main international gateway to Belém and the primary airport for COP 30.

Location and Accessibility:
SBBE is located approximately 6.8 miles (11 km) from downtown Belém—roughly a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic.

Slot and Parking Restrictions

Given the anticipated influx of VVIPs, dignitaries, and chartered delegations, SBBE will operate under strict slot and parking limitations during the COP 30 period.

• Slots Mandatory: All GA and non-scheduled commercial flights must obtain prior confirmed slots. VVIP and diplomatic movements will receive priority.

• Application Deadline: Submit slot requests no later than October 25, 2025. Late requests may be denied.

• Remote Parking: Parking space near the main terminal is limited. Some aircraft will be assigned remote parking, requiring shuttle coordination for crews and passengers.

Tip: Secure slots and parking arrangements as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.

Alternate Airport Advisory

Important: Due to high congestion, UBBB should not be used as an alternate airport in flight plans from November 8-13, 2024. Consider nearby airports:

• Ganja International Airport (UBBG) – Approx. 252 NM, 3 hours away.
• Gabala International Airport (UBBQ) – Approx. 158 NM, 1 hour and 33 minutes away.

These alternate airports are equipped to handle overflow traffic.

Ground Handling and Fuel Planning

Proactive coordination is essential during COP 30.

• Extended Ground Times: Expect longer turnaround times due to congestion and remote handling.

• Fuel Planning: Carry extra fuel reserves for holding or diversion due to slot delays or airspace saturation.

• Advance Handling Arrangements: Confirm handling and servicing with your ground handler well in advance.

Enhanced Security and Documentation

Brazilian aviation and security authorities will enforce strict protocols for the duration of the event.

• Advance Passenger Information (API): Required for all crew and passengers arriving or departing from SBBE. Ensure data is submitted accurately and ahead of schedule.

• Crew Procedures: Crews should arrive at least three hours before departure to allow time for enhanced screening and coordination.

Diplomatic Clearance and Special Permissions

Flights carrying Heads of State or other senior government officials will require diplomatic clearance via Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

• Clearance Deadline: Submit requests by October 25, 2025. Use designation “COP-30 HEAD” in all filings to expedite.

• Flight Plans: Must be filed at least 48 hours in advance. Adherence to assigned slots is mandatory.

Visas

All foreign participants traveling to the Federative Republic of Brazil for COP 30 and its pre-sessional meetings must hold a passport valid for at least three months from their date of entry.

To streamline access for delegates, Brazil will implement a dedicated COP 30 e-visa application process specifically for registered attendees. This visa channel is intended to simplify entry and reduce processing delays for conference participants.

Note: Full details and application instructions will be published on the official COP 30 website as they become available.

Operators and passengers are strongly advised to monitor updates and initiate visa applications well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid disruptions.

Hotels

With COP 30 approaching, Belém’s accommodation demand is surging, leading to significantly increased prices and limited availability. To address this, the Brazilian government has launched an official accommodation booking platform in partnership with the United Nations, providing a centralized resource for attendees to secure lodging. COP30

Key Accommodation Options:

• Official Booking Portal: The COP30 Accommodation Services platform offers a curated selection of hotels, apartments, and private residences across Belém and its metropolitan area. This portal ensures verified listings and aims to prevent price gouging.

• Alternative Lodging Solutions: Due to the high demand, the government is implementing creative solutions, including:

  • Converted Ferries: Docked ships repurposed to provide additional lodging capacity.

  • Adapted Schools: Approximately 90 public schools are being transformed into temporary hostels through public-private partnerships.

  • Love Motels: Establishments typically used for short stays are being adapted for longer-term accommodations.

Booking Recommendations:

• Reserve Early: Given the limited availability and high demand, it’s crucial to secure accommodations as soon as possible.

• Verify Listings: Use the official booking portal to ensure the legitimacy of your accommodations and to avoid inflated prices.

• Consider Nearby Areas: Explore lodging options in the greater Belém metropolitan area to increase your chances of finding suitable accommodations.

By leveraging the official resources and planning ahead, attendees can navigate the accommodation challenges posed by COP 30 in Belém.

Meeting Party Requirements

For business aviation arrivals, the receiving party must be a registered legal entity, such as a hotel or organization. Most Belém-area hotels can act as official meeting parties and provide documentation for customs and immigration purposes.

Operational Tips for Business Aviation

• Confirm Slots & Parking Early: Space is limited, and priority will go to diplomatic and scheduled operations.

• Prepare for Remote Parking & Delays: Schedule extra time for shuttling and longer processing times.

• Monitor NOTAMs & AIP Bulletins: Watch for last-minute restrictions or procedural changes.

• Carry Extra Fuel: For expected airspace delays or reroutes.

Summary

COP 30 will bring unique operational challenges for business aviation in Belém, including limited parking, slot restrictions, and increased security. Early planning, timely documentation, and close coordination with trip support providers and FBOs will be essential for smooth and compliant operations at SBBE.

Need help securing slots, permits, or ground support? Contact your trip support team as soon as possible to avoid bottlenecks.