Brazilian airline Gol will suspend its direct flights between Asunción, Paraguay, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from February 2027. The decision forms part of a broader restructuring of the airline’s domestic and international network, driven by rising operating costs and changes in its commercial strategy. Paraguay’s National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DINAC) confirmed the suspension less than a year after the route was inaugurated.
Why is GOL suspending the Asunción to Rio route?
According to DINAC president Nelson Mendoza, the suspension is linked to changes in Gol’s business strategy and the route’s passenger demand. Mendoza explained that the connection between Asunción and Rio de Janeiro had not attracted particularly high passenger volumes, making its continued operation less commercially attractive.
Rising aviation fuel prices have also placed additional pressure on the Brazilian airline’s operations. Gol has reported that fuel costs have doubled, accounting for approximately 40% of its operating expenses. Consequently, the company is reviewing several routes to improve efficiency and concentrate resources on more sustainable connections. The changes extend beyond Paraguay, affecting several domestic and international services across Gol’s network. The airline has also announced adjustments involving destinations such as Miami, Orlando and Montevideo.
A connection inaugurated in January 2026
Gol launched its direct service between Asunción’s Silvio Pettirossi International Airport and Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão International Airport in January 2026. The route initially operated three weekly flights, providing another travel option between Paraguay and Brazil. In May, the airline announced an additional weekly frequency, bringing the service to four flights per week. The expansion was intended to improve connectivity, particularly for passengers travelling onwards to New York through Rio de Janeiro.
Initial reports indicate that the final scheduled flight will operate on 30 January 2027, with the service no longer available from February.
What does the suspension mean for passengers?
Gol’s decision to suspend flights between Asunción and Rio de Janeiro will end its direct service between the two cities. However, the airline will continue operating in Paraguay, with flights between Asunción and São Paulo remaining unaffected by the announcement.
Passengers planning to travel to Rio de Janeiro after January 2027 may need to consider connecting flights or alternative airlines. Gol has indicated that it intends to maintain travel options through its network and agreements with partner carriers. However, travellers with existing reservations should check their flight status directly with the airline.
