Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport Overview

Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport (IATA: USH, ICAO: SAWH) is an international airport serving Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina. Located at the southern tip of Patagonia on the Beagle Channel, it’s the world’s southernmost international airport, approximately 4 km (a 5–10 minute drive) from the city centre. Operated by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, it handles domestic and seasonal international flights and serves as a key gateway for tourists visiting Tierra del Fuego’s stunning landscapes, cruises to Antarctica, and adventure activities.

General Information

Location: Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
IATA Code: USH
ICAO Code: SAWH
Height Above Sea: 102 feet (31 metres)
Coordinates: 54°50′36″S 68°17′44″W
Airport Type: Public/International
Flights: Domestic flights to Buenos Aires, El Calafate; seasonal international flights to Chile and Antarctica charters
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight saving)
Distance from City: Approximately 4 km from Ushuaia city centre (5–10 min by car)
Website: None (visit www.aa2000.com.ar or www.anac.gov.ar for information)
Ground Services: Managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000

Airport Details

Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 2,800 x 45 metres (9,186 x 148 feet), constructed from asphalt
Runway Strength: Suitable for medium to large jets like Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 (verify with airport)
Fire Services: CAT 7 (firefighting for international airports)
Tower Frequency: 118.1 MHz (confirm with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.9 MHz (confirm with airport)
Navigation Assistance: Yes (Ushuaia VOR/DME, ID: USH, at the airport)
Customs: Available for international and Antarctica-bound flights
Aeroplanes: Medium to large (e.g., Boeing 737, Airbus A320, smaller private jets)
Terminal: Modern, equipped for domestic and international flights
Cargo: Limited (mainly for passenger flights; small parcels)
Fuel: Avgas, Jet A-1 (check availability with airport)
FBO: None
Equipment: Tools such as stairs, luggage trolleys, and de-icing equipment (enquire for details)
Ground Services: Operated by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, including parking, refuelling, and passenger assistance.

Flight Information

Permit Time: 2 days for approval
Permission Required: Yes for non-scheduled flights (contact airport)
Slots: May be required during peak tourist seasons (check with the airport)
Backup Airports:
SAEZ: Buenos Aires (2,350 km)
SAWG: Río Gallegos (360 km)
SAWE: Río Grande (~130 km)
Recommended: SAWG (Río Gallegos, ~360 km), SAWE (Río Grande, ~130 km)

Contact Information

Police: +54 2901 431 111 (Ushuaia Police)
Fire Brigade: +54 2901 422 100 (Ushuaia Fire Brigade)
Customs: +54 2901 435 678 (Ushuaia Customs, available for international flights; call to confirm)
Airport Contacts:
Aeropuertos Argentina 2000: +54 11 3987 4150 (main line)

Visitor Information

Immigration Rules: Bring a valid passport; some countries require a visa (USA, EU, Canada exempt for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Wear a uniform, bring a passport, a visa (if needed), and flight documents
Transport: Car hire, taxis, shuttles (journey to city: 2,000–4,000 ARS)
Accommodation:
Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa: Luxurious, with scenic views
Hotel Albatros: Comfortable, in the city centre
Hostel Cruz del Sur: Budget-friendly, simple
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Nearby Attractions Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport

Ushuaia, just 4 km from Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport, is known as the “End of the World,” offering unparalleled access to Patagonia’s rugged beauty, icy landscapes, and Antarctic gateways. These attractions, located 4–50 km away (5–60 minutes by car or taxi), are must-visit spots for travellers exploring Ushuaia Airport!

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Explore this stunning national park, 12 km from Ushuaia Airport (15–20 min by car), featuring dramatic forests, lakes, and mountains. Hike trails, kayak, or take the End of the World Train. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers near Ushuaia Airport!

Beagle Channel

Embark on a boat tour of this iconic waterway, 5 km from Ushuaia Airport (5–10 min by car). Spot penguins, sea lions, and lighthouses while enjoying views of the Andes. Perfect for eco-tourists and photographers near Ushuaia Airport!

Museo del Fin del Mundo

Discover Ushuaia’s history at this engaging museum, 4 km from Ushuaia Airport (5–10 min by car). Exhibits on indigenous peoples, explorers, and maritime history make it an excellent stop for cultural travellers near Ushuaia Airport!

Martial Glacier

Hike or take a chairlift to this accessible glacier, 10 km from Ushuaia Airport (10–15 min by car). It offers panoramic views of the city and the Beagle Channel. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and sightseers near Ushuaia Airport!

Estancia Harberton

Visit this historic ranch, 85 km from Ushuaia Airport (60–75 min by car or tour), the oldest in Tierra del Fuego. Explore its museum, gardens, and nearby penguin colonies, which are a unique cultural and eco-tourism experience near Ushuaia Airport!

Extra Tips

Getting Around: Ushuaia is 2,350 km from Buenos Aires (30–35 hr by car or bus). The closest larger airport is SAWG (Río Gallegos, 360 km).
Travel: City spots are 4–5 km away (taxi: 2,000–4,000 ARS); farther places like Estancia Harberton require a car or tour. Buses connect to Río Gallegos (360 km) or Río Grande (130 km).
Best Times to Visit:
Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for hiking, cruises, and Antarctica trips
Winter (Jun–Aug): Great for skiing and snow activities
Spring/Autumn (Sep–Nov, Mar–May): Mild, quieter time
Tips:
Carry Argentine Peso (ARS) cash:
Book a hotel (like Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa) for peak seasons.
Try local king crab at restaurants like Kaupé.
Call for aviation assistance: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150).