International Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport | San Salvador | SAL | MSLP |
Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Petén International Airport | La Union | None | MSLU |
| Ilopango International Airport | San Salvador | None | MSIL |
| La Palma Airport | La Palma | None | MSLP |
| Suchitoto Airport | Suchitoto | None | MSSC |
Notes:
- Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport is the primary international gateway into El Salvador.
- Domestic airports in El Salvador are used primarily for regional travel, private flights, and smaller aircraft.
El Salvador Airports: Modernisation and Expansion Plans Unveiled
El Salvador, a small yet vibrant Central American nation, boasts several airports that serve as gateways for travellers. The main hub for international flights is El Salvador International Airport, also known as Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, located about 50 kilometres south of San Salvador, the capital city. This modern facility handles most of the country’s air traffic and connects El Salvador to destinations across the Americas and Europe.
While the international airport takes centre stage, El Salvador has other smaller airports that cater to domestic and regional flights. These include facilities in various parts of the country, such as Corral de Mulas Airport, El Tamarindo Airport, and El Ronco Airport. These airports play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity within El Salvador and with neighbouring Central American countries.
For visitors planning a trip to El Salvador, understanding the airport options can help in making informed travel decisions. Whether flying into the main international airport or using one of the smaller regional facilities, travellers can expect to experience the warmth and hospitality that El Salvador is known for from the moment they touch down.
Major Airports in El Salvador
El Salvador has several airports that serve both international and domestic travellers. These airports play a crucial role in connecting the country to destinations across North America, South America, and Europe.
Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport
El Salvador’s main airport is located in San Luis Talpa, about 50 km south of San Salvador. It’s also known as El Salvador International Airport or Comalapa International Airport. This airport handles most of the country’s international flights.
Major airlines like Avianca, American Airlines, and Iberia operate here. The airport has undergone recent expansions to improve its facilities and capacity. A new terminal was added to handle increased passenger traffic.
The airport serves as a hub for connections to other Central American countries. It offers direct flights to cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and several South American nations.
Ilopango International Airport
Ilopango International Airport is located in San Salvador, the capital city of El Salvador. It primarily serves domestic flights and some regional routes within Central America.
This airport is smaller than Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport but plays an important role in domestic travel. It’s often used for chartered flights and private aviation.
Ilopango International Airport is conveniently situated for travellers looking to reach San Salvador quickly. Its proximity to the city centre makes it a popular choice for business travellers.
Secondary Airports and Infrastructure
El Salvador has several secondary airports that support regional travel and improve connectivity within the country. These include Los Comandos Airport, El Papalon Airport, La Aramuaca Airport, and Santa Rosa de Lima Airport.
These smaller airports primarily serve domestic routes and charter flights. They play a vital role in connecting rural areas to larger cities within El Salvador.
The Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (CEPA) oversees the management and development of El Salvador’s airport infrastructure. CEPA works to improve and expand airport facilities across the country to meet growing travel demands.
Airlines and Destinations
El Salvador’s airports connect the country to major cities across the Americas. Travellers can choose from several airlines offering flights to diverse destinations.
International and Domestic Airlines
Fifteen airlines fly to El Salvador International Airport from various cities worldwide. Avianca El Salvador, formerly TACA Airlines, is the national carrier. It operates numerous routes from San Salvador.
Other prominent airlines serving El Salvador include:
- Volaris
- Tag Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- United Airlines
- Copa Airlines
- Aeromexico
- Spirit Airlines
- Air Transat
These carriers provide a mix of full-service and budget options for travellers. Domestic flights within El Salvador are limited, as the country is relatively small.
Key International Routes
El Salvador International Airport, also known as Comalapa Airport, serves as the main hub for international flights. It offers connections to major cities across North and South America.
Popular destinations from San Salvador include:
- Los Angeles
- Houston
- Miami
- New York
- Mexico City
- Panama City
- San Jose (Costa Rica)
- Atlanta
- Washington DC
These routes cater to business travellers, tourists, and the large Salvadoran diaspora. Flight frequencies vary, with some destinations like Los Angeles seeing multiple daily flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
El Salvador has several airports that serve both domestic and international travellers. These airports offer various facilities and transportation options to ensure a smooth travel experience.
What are the main international airports in El Salvador?
The primary international airport in El Salvador is El Salvador International Airport “Oscar Arnulfo Romero”. It is also known as Comalapa International Airport or SAL.
Ilopango International Airport is another option, located closer to San Salvador. It mainly serves domestic and some regional flights.
How do you travel between the airport and the capital city in El Salvador?
Taxis and shuttle buses are available from El Salvador International Airport to San Salvador. The journey takes about 45 minutes by car.
Public buses are also an option, but they can be crowded and take longer.
Are there direct flights from the UK to El Salvador?
There are no direct flights from the UK to El Salvador. Travellers typically need to connect through a major hub in Europe or the United States.
Common connection points include Madrid, Miami, or Atlanta.
What facilities can travellers expect at El Salvador’s primary airport?
El Salvador International Airport offers free Wi-Fi for passengers. It also has duty-free shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services.
The airport provides special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility.
What car hire options are available at El Salvador’s airports?
Several car rental companies operate at El Salvador International Airport. These include both international and local firms.
It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
How early should passengers arrive at El Salvador’s airports for international flights?
For international flights, it’s recommended to arrive at least three hours before departure.
This allows time for check-in, security procedures, and any unexpected delays.
