El Calafate Airport Overview

El Calafate Airport (IATA: FTE, ICAO: SAWC), also known as Comandante Armando Tola International Airport, is an international airport serving El Calafate, a key city in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. Located in the Patagonia region near the Andes and the stunning Los Glaciares National Park, the airport is approximately 21 km (a 25–30 minute drive) from the city centre. Operated by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, it handles both domestic and seasonal international flights, serving as a primary gateway for tourists visiting the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier and other Patagonian wonders.

General Information

Location: El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
IATA Code: FTE
ICAO Code: SAWC
Height Above Sea: 669 feet (204 metres)
Coordinates: 50°16′49″S 72°03′11″W
Airport Type: Public/International
Flights: Domestic flights to Buenos Aires and Ushuaia; seasonal international flights to Chile and Brazil
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight saving)
Distance from City: Approximately 21 km from El Calafate city centre (25–30 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: 2,550 x 45 metres (8,366 x 148 feet), constructed from concrete
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: 118.4 MHz (confirm with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.9 MHz (confirm with airport)
Navigation Assistance: Yes (El Calafate VOR/DME, ID: FTE, at the airport)
Customs: Available for international 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 seasons (check with the airport)
Backup Airports:
SAEZ: Buenos Aires (2,000 km)
SAWH: Ushuaia (560 km)
SAWG: Río Gallegos (~250 km)
Recommended: SAWG (Río Gallegos, ~250 km), SAWA (El Chaltén, ~200 km)

Contact Information

Police: +54 2902 491 111 (El Calafate Police)
Fire Brigade: +54 2902 492 100 (El Calafate Fire Brigade)
Customs: +54 2902 493 456 (El Calafate 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: 3,000–5,000 ARS)
Accommodation:
Hotel Posada Los Alamos: Luxurious, in the city centre
Hotel Kosten Aike: Comfortable, reasonably priced
América del Sur Hostel: Budget-friendly, simple
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Nearby Attractions: El Calafate Airport

El Calafate, just 21 km from El Calafate Airport, is a gateway to Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes, most notably the UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park. Known for its glaciers, lakes, and rugged beauty, these attractions, located 21–80 km away (25–90 minutes by car or tour), are must-visit spots for travellers exploring El Calafate Airport!

Perito Moreno Glacier

Marvel at this world-famous glacier, 80 km from El Calafate Airport (80–90 min by car or tour), a Los Glaciares National Park highlight. Walk along boardwalks for stunning views, take a boat tour, or trek on the ice. A must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers near El Calafate Airport!

Glaciarium Museum

Explore this fascinating museum, 15 km from El Calafate Airport (20–25 min by car), dedicated to Patagonia’s glaciers and ice fields. Interactive exhibits and a unique ice bar make it an excellent stop for families and curious travellers near El Calafate Airport!

Lago Argentino

Discover Argentina’s largest lake, 22 km from El Calafate Airport (25–30 min by car). It is perfect for boat tours, kayaking, or scenic walks. Its turquoise waters and surrounding mountains offer unforgettable views for outdoor enthusiasts near El Calafate Airport!

Upsala Glacier

Take a boat tour to this massive glacier, 80 km from El Calafate Airport (80–90 min by car or tour), within Los Glaciares National Park. Witness towering icebergs and pristine wilderness, a thrilling experience for eco-tourists and photographers near El Calafate Airport!

Centro de Interpretación Histórica

Visit this engaging history museum in El Calafate’s city centre, 21 km from El Calafate Airport (25–30 min by car). Through captivating exhibits, learn about Patagonia’s indigenous peoples, explorers, and natural history. Ideal for cultural explorers near El Calafate Airport!

Extra Tips

Getting Around: El Calafate is 2,000 km from Buenos Aires (25–30 hr by car or bus). The closest larger airport is SAWG (Río Gallegos, 250 km).
Travel: City spots are 21–22 km away (taxi: 3,000–5,000 ARS); farther places like Perito Moreno Glacier require a car or tour. Buses connect to Río Gallegos (250 km) or El Chaltén (200 km).
Best Times to Visit:
Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for glacier tours and outdoor activities
Spring/Autumn (Sep–Nov, Mar–May): Mild, great for sightseeing
Winter (Jun–Aug): Quieter, cooler time
Tips:
Carry Argentine Peso (ARS) cash:
Book a hotel (like Hotel Posada Los Alamos) for peak seasons.
Try Patagonian lamb at local restaurants like La Tablita.
Call for aviation assistance: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150).