Bahía Blanca Airport Overview

Bahía Blanca Airport (IATA: BHI, ICAO: SAZB), also known as Comandante Espora Airport, is a public airport serving Bahía Blanca, a significant city in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. Located in a temperate region near the Atlantic coast, the airport is approximately 10 km (a 15–20 minute drive) from the city centre. Operated by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, it primarily handles domestic flights, supporting tourism, local commerce, and the region’s significant port and industrial activities.

General Information

Location: Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
IATA Code: BHI
ICAO Code: SAZB
Height Above Sea: 246 feet (75 metres)
Coordinates: 38°43′30″S 62°10′09″W
Airport Type: Public (primarily domestic flights)
Flights: Domestic flights, mainly to Buenos Aires; limited seasonal international flights
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight saving)
Distance from City: Approximately 10 km from Bahía Blanca city centre (15–20 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: 2
Longest Runway: 2,616 x 45 metres (8,583 x 148 feet), constructed from asphalt
Runway Strength: Suitable for medium jets like Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 (verify with airport)
Fire Services: CAT 6–7 (firefighting for passenger airports)
Tower Frequency: 118.9 MHz (confirm with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.7 MHz (confirm with airport)
Navigation Assistance: Yes (Bahía Blanca VOR/DME, ID: BHI, at the airport)
Customs: Available for international flights on request
Aeroplanes: Small to medium (e.g., Boeing 737, Embraer E190, smaller private jets)
Terminal: Small, for regular domestic flights
Cargo: Limited (mainly for passenger flights; small parcels)
Fuel: Avgas, Jet A-1 (check availability with airport)
FBO: None
Equipment: Basic tools like stairs and luggage trolleys (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 times (check with the airport)
Backup Airports:
SAEZ: Buenos Aires (600 km)
SACO: Córdoba (850 km)
SAZM: Mar del Plata (~400 km)
Recommended: SAZM (Mar del Plata, ~400 km), SAZT (Tandil, ~300 km)

Contact Information

Police: +54 291 456 7890 (Bahía Blanca Police)
Fire Brigade: +54 291 455 1010 (Bahía Blanca Fire Brigade)
Customs: +54 291 457 2345 (Bahía Blanca Customs, on request; 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, local buses (journey to city: 1,500–3,000 ARS)
Accommodation:
Hotel Land Plaza Bahía Blanca: Luxurious, in the city centre
Hotel Argos: Comfortable, reasonably priced
Hotel Austral: Budget-friendly, simple
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Nearby Attractions: Bahía Blanca Airport

Bahía Blanca, just 10 km from Bahía Blanca Airport, is a vibrant port city known for its maritime history, cultural scene, and proximity to coastal and natural attractions. These attractions, located 10–50 km away (15–60 minutes by car or taxi), are must-visit spots for travellers exploring Bahía Blanca Airport!

Plaza Rivadavia

Explore the heart of Bahía Blanca at this bustling central square, just 10 km from Bahía Blanca Airport (15–20 min by car). Surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and cafés, it’s perfect for soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere and cultural vibe. An excellent spot for travellers seeking urban experiences near Bahía Blanca Airport!

Museo del Puerto

Discover the city’s maritime heritage at this engaging museum, 12 km from Bahía Blanca Airport (15–20 min by car). It exhibits the port’s history and immigrant stories in the charming Puerto de Ing. White. Ideal for history buffs and curious travellers near Bahía Blanca Airport!

Sierra de la Ventana

Embark on a scenic adventure to this stunning mountain range, 80 km from Bahía Blanca Airport (60–75 min by car). Hike trails, enjoy breathtaking views, and explore quaint villages. A must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts near Bahía Blanca Airport!

Balneario Pehuen-Có

Relax at this beautiful coastal beach, 50 km from Bahía Blanca Airport (45–60 min by car). Known for its sandy shores, fossil-rich cliffs, and serene vibe, it’s perfect for families, beachgoers, and those seeking coastal escapes near Bahía Blanca Airport!

Teatro Municipal

Visit this historic theatre in the city centre, 10 km from Bahía Blanca Airport (15–20 min by car). Admire its elegant architecture and catch a cultural performance or event. It is an artistic gem for travellers seeking arts and history near Bahía Blanca Airport!

Extra Tips

Getting Around: Bahía Blanca is 600 km from Buenos Aires (7–8 hr by car or bus). The closest larger airport is SAEZ (Buenos Aires, 600 km).
Travel: City spots are 10–12 km away (taxi: 1,500–3,000 ARS); farther places like Sierra de la Ventana require a car or tour. Buses connect to Mar del Plata (400 km) or Tandil (300 km).
Best Times to Visit:
Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for beach visits and coastal activities
Spring (Sep–Nov): Mild, great for hiking and city exploration
Winter (Jun–Aug): Cooler, quieter time
Tips:
Carry Argentine Peso (ARS) cash:
Book a hotel (like Hotel Land Plaza Bahía Blanca) for peak times.
Try local seafood dishes at restaurants in Puerto de Ing. White.
Call for aviation assistance: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150).