GOL Linhas Aéreas GOL Linhas Aéreas

GOL Linhas Aéreas

Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes S.A  also known as VRG Linhas Aéreas S/A is a Brazilian low-cost airline based in Rio de Janeiro. The company's name is a Brazilian Portuguese word borrowing from the English word "goal" from Association football.

 According to the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC), between January and December 2019 Gol had 37.7% of the domestic and 3.8% of the international market shares in terms of passengers per kilometre flown, making it the largest domestic and third-largest international airline in Brazil.

The company slogan is Portuguese: Nova Gol. Novos tempos no ar., "The new Gol. New times in the air."

Gol competes in Brazil and other South American countries primarily with LATAM Brasil, and Azul. It also owns the brand Varig, although now that name refers to what is informally known as the "new" Varig, founded in 2006.

Gol operates a growing domestic and international scheduled network. Its main hubs are São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport, Rio de Janeiro - Galeão International Airport and Tancredo Neves International Airport near Belo Horizonte. Gol also has focus operations at Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport, São Paulo-Congonhas Airport, Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre Gol refers to itself as GOL Intelligent Airlines (GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes in Portuguese) as a slogan. 

GOL is the first airline in the world to replace the Boeing 737-MAX model for flight after its release. This return represents the beginning of fleet renewal, with the most modern and efficient aircraft in the world. 

Currently, GOL has 90 B737-800 aircraft, 23 B737-700 aircraft, and now 10 B737 MAX 8 aircraft. These aircraft fly routes in Brazil, South America, North America, and the Caribbean.

The passengers can wait for flights in an exclusive and comfortable space: an environment created exclusively for travelers to wait for flights with tranquillity and comfort. This is the GOL Premium Lounge, a space with modern facilities and all the necessary structures for travellers to enjoy all the convenience of flying GOL even before takeoff.

The trip will be even more complete with GOL's onboard service: a varied selection of snacks, meals and drinks, with orders that vary according to the destination and the duration of the trip.

According to Skytrax “GOL is a hybrid low-cost airline, and Economy Class customers receive a free drink and snack. On longer international routes there are free hot meals and soft drinks, plus a buy-on-board choice. IFE, WiFi, and seat power are available on many aircraft. Premium Economy provides priority airport services, lounge access, free meals and drinks, and the seat product is slightly enhanced. While the product is good, staff service is below a 4-Star level, and this is a key area for improvement.”

GOL revolutionized Brazilian commercial aviation by eliminating the issue of traditional paper tickets and launching the reservation code (locator). This made life easier for customers and ensured a reduction in ticket prices.

In 2020, GOL obtained the IEnvA – IATA Environmental Assessment certificate. The proof is granted by the International Air Transport Association and places GOL in a select list of 13 global airlines holding this certification, being the only Brazilian company on the list. 

GOL has been awarded the 3-Star Airline certification by Skytrax for the quality of its airport and onboard product and staff service. Product rating includes seats, amenities, food & beverages, IFE, cleanliness etc, and service rating is for both cabin staff and ground staff.