AF offers the best F service from Brazil, hands down.
Check-in was a breeze; I asked where the P line was and they addressed me by name (despite being the first to check-in and occupancy was 2/4). I had flown AF P a few times before, so maybe they knew who to expect? At GRU, AF offers free luggage wrapping, so I took them on the offer and wrapped my dive gear bags as I wouldn’t need to open them until getting to CNS.
A nuisance at GRU is that there is absolutely no fast-track. Other than Brazil’s “priorities by law” (i.e. the elderly, special needs, mobility, etc), no shorter lines for anyone. But I had the pleasant company of the AF personal assistant and we chatted for the 10+ minutes to get through security.
Lounge: AF has the most exclusive lounge in GRU. Previously, they used the GRU airport First lounge (I think they were the only users, really). That is now gone as Amex took over and they are using a VIP room inside the Amex lounge. I understand only AF P and Centurion members have access.
I think the new space is actually an improvement. Nicely appointed, spacious and service was attentive. There are different seating options, including a few loungers, and a private shower room. I guess the only “downside”, according to the AF PA is that they need to go inside the business lounge and into the VIP room (previously there was a separate entrance). I didn’t really see any issues with that though.
As I wanted to save space for the flight, I didn’t eat anything and only had a bottle of sparkling water. The waiter offered me a menu, which I perused but nothing really called my attention.
Flight was on time and my PA came to the lounge to escort me to the gate. We cut all the lines and she led me through the jet bridge door used only for P passengers.