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.

GOL's slogan, 'Nova Gol. Novos tempos no ar, meaning 'The new GOL. New times in the air herald a fresh era in Brazilian aviation.

Gol competes in Brazil and other South American countries primarily with LATAM Brasil and Azul. It also owns the brand Varig.

Gol operates a growing domestic and international scheduled network. Its main hubs are São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), Rio de Janeiro - Galeão International Airport (GIG) and Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) near Belo Horizonte. Gol also has focus operations at Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), São Paulo-Congonhas Airport (CGH), and Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre (POA). 

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

March 2025 saw GOL's fleet, a symphony of 12 Boeing 737-700, 73 Boeing 737-800 and 53 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, tracing elegant arcs across Brazil, South America, and the luminous expanse of 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 emerges as a hybrid low-cost gem that redefines affordable travel! In Economy Class, the airline treats passengers to a complimentary drink and snack, perfect for a quick boost. On longer international routes, it serves up free hot meals and soft drinks, or tempts travelers with a buy-on-board menu for added flair. Entertainment enthusiasts will appreciate that many aircraft come equipped with in-flight entertainment (IFE), WiFi, and seat power to keep them engaged and connected. For a touch of luxury, Premium Economy offers priority airport services, lounge access, free meals and drinks, and a slightly enhanced seat for extra comfort. While Skytrax praises GOL’s offerings, it notes that staff service falls short of a 4-Star standard—a critical area where the airline aims to soar higher with some fine-tuning!

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.

Back in 2020, GOL soared to new heights by earning the prestigious IEnvA: IATA Environmental Assessment certificate—a golden stamp from the International Air Transport Association. This eco-friendly badge places GOL among an elite circle of just 13 global airlines, proudly standing as Brazil’s sole representative on this exclusive list!

Even amid turbulence, GOL keeps its wings steady. After filing for Chapter 11 in early 2024 to tackle hefty debt, the airline continues to whisk passengers across the skies without missing a beat, all while restructuring behind the scenes. Far from faltering, GOL remains a powerhouse in Brazil’s aviation scene, showing no signs of slowing down.

Today, GOL is still soaring strong! As of March 2025, the airline sealed a game-changing deal with investors, locking in up to $1.25 billion in debt instruments to power its resurgence. This bold step underscores GOL’s fierce determination to conquer financial headwinds and emerge from its U.S. Chapter 11 proceedings tougher than ever. The proof’s in the numbers: São Paulo-listed shares surged about 5% after the news hit, a resounding cheer for GOL’s dazzling future!

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.