La Rioja Airport Overview

La Rioja Airport (IATA: IRJ, ICAO: SANL), also known as Capitán Vicente Almandos Almonacid Airport, is a public airport serving La Rioja in La Rioja Province, Argentina. It is located in the arid Cuyo region, about 7 km east of the city centre. This airport connects the capital of La Rioja, known for its desert landscapes, historic sites, and nearby Talampaya National Park, to the rest of Argentina. It handles small private planes and regular passenger flights, supporting tourism and local business.

General Information

Serves: La Rioja, La Rioja Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SANL
IATA: IRJ
Elevation: 1,434 feet (437 meters)
Coordinates: 29°22′53″S 66°47′45″W
Airport Type: Public (small planes and regular passenger flights)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international services)
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~7 km east of La Rioja city centre (10–15 min by car)
Official Airport Website: None (check www.aa2000.com.ar or www.anac.gov.ar for general info)
Ground Handling Website: None (handled by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 or Aeroclub La Rioja; see contact below)

Operational Details

Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 2,860 x 45 meters (9,383 x 148 feet), asphalt
PCN: Not listed (good for small to medium planes, like Boeing 737; check with airport)
Fire Category: CAT 6–7 (firefighting for airports with passenger flights)
Tower Frequency: 118.5 MHz (check with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.9 MHz (check with the airport)
Navaid: Yes (La Rioja VOR/DME, Ident: RIO, on-site)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Small to medium planes (like Cessna, Piper, Boeing 737)
Terminal Capacity: Small passenger terminal (handles regular flights)
Cargo Capacity: Limited (primarily for passenger flights; small packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas, Jet A-1 (check availability with the airport)
FBO: None available
Equipment Available: Ground handling tools (like passenger stairs and baggage carts; ask for details)
Ground Handler Information: Operations managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 for passenger flights and Aeroclub La Rioja for small planes, handling parking, refuelling, and passenger services. Call Aeroclub La Rioja at +54 380 421 234 (not confirmed; general contact for La Rioja aviation) or Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 at +54 11 3987 4150 (general line). External ground handlers may be available for special operations.

Operational Information

Permit Approval Lead Time: 2 days
PPR: Required for non-scheduled flights (contact airport)
Slots: May be needed during busy times (check with airport)

Alternate Airports:  

  • SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~1,000 km)  
  • SAAR (Rosario, ~700 km)  
  • SARI (Iguazú, ~1,300 km)  
  • Recommended: SANC (Catamarca, ~150 km), SACO (Córdoba, ~350 km)

Contact Numbers

Police: +54 380 422 111 (La Rioja Police)
Fire: +54 380 421 100 (La Rioja Fire Department)
Customs: Not available
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 380 421 234 (Aeroclub La Rioja, not confirmed); +54 11 3987 4150 (Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, general line)

Tourist Information

Immigration Rules: Bring a valid passport; some countries need a visa (USA, EU, Canada don’t for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Wear a uniform, bring passport, visa (if needed), and flight paperwork
Ground Transport: Car rentals available, some buses, metered taxis (ride to City: 1,500–3,000 ARS)

Accommodation:  

  • Hotel Pircas Negras (nice, central)  
  • Hotel Libertador (comfy, medium price)  
  • Hostal La Casa del Viajero (cheap)
  • Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Tourist Attractions Near La Rioja Airport

La Rioja, a historic city 7 km from the airport, is charming in Argentina’s Cuyo region. Known for its desert scenery, colonial roots, and proximity to Talampaya National Park, it’s a great spot for history and nature. You can reach exciting places within 7–50 km by car or taxi in 10–60 minutes.

Plaza 25 de Mayo

The City’s main square, 7 km away, is lively with old buildings like the Catedral de San Nicolás and shady trees. It’s perfect for chilling or grabbing a snack.

Distance: ~7 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Fun place to feel La Rioja’s history and relaxed vibe.

Talampaya National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site 50 km away, with red canyons, dinosaur fossils, and ancient petroglyphs. Guided tours show off its wild beauty.

Distance: ~50 km (50–60 min by car).
Why Visit: Hiking and seeing epic desert landscapes is super exciting.

Museo Folklórico

There is a cool museum 7 km away that shows La Rioja’s traditions, including old crafts, musical instruments, and stories about local festivals.

Distance: ~7 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Awesome for learning about the City’s culture and folk history.

Parque de la Ciudad

A green park 8 km away with paths, playgrounds, and spots for picnics or sports. It’s a chill place for families or a relaxing day outside.

Distance: ~8 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Great for outdoor fun and enjoying nature.

Chilecito

A scenic town 50 km away, known for its old cableway (La Mexicana) and wine vineyards. It’s a great spot for history and tasting local wines.

Distance: ~50 km (50–60 min by car).
Why Visit: It is fun to explore historic sites and sip wine.

Additional Notes

Connectivity: It’s 1,000 km from Buenos Aires (11–12 hr by car or bus on Ruta Nacional 38). SACO (Córdoba, 350 km) is the closest airport with more flights.

Accessibility: City spots are 7–8 km away (taxi: 1,500–3,000 ARS); farther places need a car or tour. Buses go to Catamarca (150 km) or Córdoba (350 km).

Seasonal Highlights: Summer (Dec–Feb) is great for festivals; spring (Sep–Nov) is great for hiking and mild weather; and winter (Jun–Aug) is quiet.

Practical Tips: Bring ARS cash; book a place to stay (like Hotel Pircas Negras) for busy times; try local locro at Restaurante El Solar del Cerro. Call Aeroclub La Rioja (+54 380 421 234) or Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150) for plane help.