The number of international flights to Brazil during the 2014 FIFA World Cup increased by 14 per cent in comparison with the previous year.

Statistics released by the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism show that numbers rose from 2,368 to 2,698 in June and July, with flights from the United Kingdom adding up to 40,408 seats.

By region, the greatest increase recorded was in flights originating from Latin America, with a rise of 20 per cent, taking the number of flights during the period from 1,226 to 1,472.

The three countries from the region that sent the most visitors to Brazil by plane were Argentina, Chile and Uruguay.

Flights from European countries increased from 487 to 507 during the World Cup, while those departing from Lisbon rose by 8.27 per cent (133 to 144).

Flights from Madrid increased by 20 per cent (64 to 77) and those departing from Rome rose by 18 per cent (27 to 32).

Flights originating from North American countries rose by 8.7 per cent, from 551 to 599.

Some cities showed a much greater percentage increase: flights from Los Angeles rose by 300 per cent (rising from six to 24); those departing from Miami rose by 20.46 per cent (210 to 253); New York showed a 7.29 per cent increase (96 to 103); and flights from Atlanta rose by 33 per cent (42 to 56).