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Tandil Airport Overview
Tandil Airport (IATA: TDL, ICAO: SAZT) is a public airport serving Tandil in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. Located in the scenic Pampa region, approximately 14 km northwest of the city centre, it serves as a vital link for this vibrant community renowned for its rolling hills, artisanal food, and outdoor activities. The airport primarily supports general aviation, enhancing regional tourism and local commerce connectivity.
General Information
Serves: Tandil, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAZT
IATA: TDL
Elevation: 574 ft (175 m)
Coordinates: 37°14′15″S 59°13′40″W
Airport Type: Public (general aviation, no scheduled commercial flights)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international customs/immigration facilities)
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART, Argentine Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~14 km northwest of Tandil city centre (15–20 min by car)
Official Airport Website: None (no dedicated website; managed by local authorities or ANAC, www.anac.gov.ar for general aviation info)
Ground Handling Website: None (no specific ground handling website; operations managed by Aeroclub Tandil; contact below)
Operational Details
Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 2,150 x 30 m (7,054 x 98 ft), asphalt
PCN: Not published (likely suitable for light to medium aircraft; confirm with airport authority)
Fire Category: CAT 3–4 (estimated for small airports with general aviation focus)
Tower Frequency: None (likely uses standard traffic advisory frequency, e.g., 122.8 MHz; confirm with aeroclub)
Ground Frequency: None
Navaid: Yes (Tandil VOR/DME, Ident: TDL, on-site)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Light to medium aircraft (e.g., Cessna, Piper)
Terminal Capacity: None (no commercial passenger terminal)
Cargo Capacity: Minimal (limited to small packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas (confirm with aeroclub; Jet A-1 unlikely)
FBO: None available
Equipment Available: Basic ground handling (e.g., tie-downs, chocks; confirm specifics)
Ground Handler Information: No formal ground handling services documented. Operations are managed by Aeroclub Tandil, which provides basic support for general aviation (e.g., parking refuelling coordination). Contact Aeroclub at +54 2494 421 234 (unverified; general Tandil aviation contact) or via email at aeroclubtandil@gmail.com (if available, confirm directly). External ground handlers from larger airports (e.g., Buenos Aires) may be arranged for special operations, which is rare for Tandil’s scale.
Operational Information
Permit Approval Lead Time: 48 hours
PPR: Not required
Slots: Not required
Alternate Airports:
- SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~300 km)
- SAAR (Rosario, ~400 km)
- SARI (Iguazú, ~1,200 km)
- Recommended: SAZM (Mar del Plata, ~170 km), SAZB (Bahía Blanca, ~300 km)
Contact Numbers
Police: +54 2494 422 111 (Tandil Police, general line)
Fire: +54 2494 421 100 (Tandil Fire Department)
Customs: Not applicable (no customs service)
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 2494 421 234 (Aeroclub Tandil, unverified)
Tourist Information
Immigration Rules: Valid passport; visa for some nationalities (USA, EU, Canada visa-free for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Uniform, passport, visa (if applicable), Gendec for private flights
Ground Transport: Limited car rentals, local buses, non-metered taxis (fare to City: 1,500–3,000 ARS, negotiate)
Accommodation:
- Amaike Hotel Golf & Spa (luxury, central)
- Hotel Libertador (comfortable, mid-range)
- Posada del Tigre (budget-friendly)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Tourist Attractions Near Tandil Airport
Tandil, a picturesque city 14 km from the airport, pulses with the vibrant spirit of Argentina’s Pampa, where rolling hills, artisanal cheese, and salami production meet a rich cultural heritage. Known for its scenic landscapes, religious landmarks, and outdoor adventures, this dynamic hub captivates with its blend of nature and tradition. Attractions within 14–50 km are reachable by car or taxi in 15–60 minutes, offering exhilarating experiences.
Cerro El Centinela
A stunning hill 20 km away, this iconic rock formation offers hiking trails, panoramic views of the Pampa, and a mystical monolith said to balance precariously. Paragliding and picnics spark adventure in this natural playground.
Distance: ~20 km (20–25 min by car).
Why Visit: Thrilling outdoor pursuits with breathtaking vistas, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Piedra Movediza (Replica)
A cultural landmark 15 km away, this replica of Tandil’s famous balancing rock (initially fell in 1912) draws visitors to Parque Independencia. The site offers sweeping city views and a glimpse into local folklore.
Distance: ~15 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: Heart-pounding blend of history and scenic beauty, ideal for cultural explorers.
Monte Calvario
A serene religious site 16 km away, this hilltop shrine features a Station of the crosspath and a towering cross, drawing pilgrims and tourists. Its tranquil setting and city vistas ignite a sense of peace and awe.
Distance: ~16 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: Exhilarating spiritual and scenic experience, a must for reflective travellers.
Museo Histórico Fuerte Independencia
A captivating museum 15 km away showcasing Tandil’s pioneer history with gaucho artefacts, colonial tools, and exhibits on the region’s indigenous past. Its fort setting sparks curiosity about the Pampa’s rugged roots.
Distance: ~15 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: Deep dive into Tandil’s storied past, ideal for history enthusiasts craving authentic narratives.
Sierra del Tigre
A rugged hill range 25 km away, this natural reserve offers hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting amid granite peaks and eucalyptus groves. Its pristine trails thrill with a sense of untamed adventure.
Distance: ~25 km (25–30 min by car).
Why Visit: This thrilling escape into the Pampa’s wild heart is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Additional Notes
Connectivity: 300 km from Buenos Aires (3.5–4 hr by car/bus, Ruta Nacional 226). The nearest commercial airport is SAZM (Mar del Plata, 170 km).
Accessibility: Urban attractions 14–16 km (taxi: 1,500–3,000 ARS); rural sites require car/tours. Buses to Mar del Plata (170 km), Buenos Aires (300 km).
Seasonal Highlights: Spring (Sep–Nov) for hiking and mild weather; summer (Dec–Feb) for festivals; Easter for Monte Calvario pilgrimages.
Practical Tips: Carry ARS; book accommodations (e.g., Amaike Hotel) for peak seasons; savour local salami at La Tablita. Contact Aeroclub Tandil (+54 2494 421 234) for ground handling.
