Malargüe Airport Overview

Malargüe Airport (IATA: LGS, ICAO: SAMR) is a public airport serving Malargüe, a city in Mendoza Province, Argentina. Located in the Andes foothills, in a region known for its stunning mountainous landscapes and volcanic terrain, the airport is approximately 4 km (a 5–10 minute drive) from the city centre. Operated by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, it primarily handles domestic flights, supporting tourism and local commerce, particularly for visitors drawn to nearby ski resorts, nature reserves, and adventure activities.

General Information

Location: Malargüe, Mendoza Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
IATA Code: LGS
ICAO Code: SAMR
Height Above Sea: 4,652 feet (1,418 metres)
Coordinates: 35°29′37″S 69°35′04″W
Airport Type: Public (primarily domestic flights)
Flights: Domestic flights, mainly to Buenos Aires and Mendoza; seasonal charters for ski tourism
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight saving)
Distance from City: Approximately 4 km from Malargüe city centre (5–10 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: 2,300 x 30 metres (7,546 x 98 feet), constructed from asphalt
Runway Strength: Suitable for small to medium jets like Boeing 737 (verify with airport)
Fire Services: CAT 5–6 (firefighting for small passenger airports)
Tower Frequency: 118.6 MHz (confirm with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.7 MHz (confirm with airport)
Navigation Assistance: Yes (Malargüe VOR/DME, ID: LGS, at the airport)
Customs: Limited, available on request for charters
Aeroplanes: Small to medium (e.g., Boeing 737, Embraer E190, smaller private jets)
Terminal: Small, for regular and seasonal 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 ski season (check with the airport)
Backup Airports:
SAEZ: Buenos Aires (1,000 km)
SACO: Córdoba (800 km)
SAME: Mendoza (~300 km)
Recommended: SAME (Mendoza, ~300 km), SAOC (San Rafael, ~200 km)

Contact Information

Police: +54 260 447 0123 (Malargüe Police)
Fire Brigade: +54 260 447 0100 (Malargüe Fire Brigade)
Customs: +54 260 447 0567 (Malargüe 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 shuttles (journey to city: 1,000–2,500 ARS)
Accommodation:
Hotel Malargüe Inn & Suites: Comfortable, in the city centre
Hotel Rio Grande: Budget-friendly, simple
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham: Modern, with amenities
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Nearby Attractions: Malargüe Airport

Malargüe, just 4 km from Malargüe Airport, is a gateway to the Andes’ rugged beauty, offering adventure, natural wonders, and a rich geological heritage. Known for its volcanic landscapes and proximity to ski resorts, these attractions, located 4–50 km away (5–60 minutes by car or taxi), are must-visit spots for travellers exploring Malargüe Airport!

Las Leñas Ski Resort

Hit the slopes at this world-class ski resort, 70 km from Malargüe Airport (60–75 min by car). Renowned for its powdery snow and diverse runs, it’s a paradise for skiers, snowboarders, and adventure seekers visiting Malargüe Airport during winter!

Caverna de las Brujas

Explore this mystical cave system, 60 km from Malargüe Airport (50–60 min by car), featuring stunning stalactites and underground chambers. Guided tours make it a thrilling stop for adventure travellers and geology enthusiasts near Malargüe Airport!

Laguna de Llancanelo

Discover this scenic wetland, 40 km from Malargüe Airport (40–50 min by car), home to flamingos and diverse birdlife. It’s a serene eco-tourism spot near Malargüe Airport, perfect for nature lovers and photographers!

Volcán Malacara

Hike through this unique volcanic landscape, 12 km from Malargüe Airport (15–20 min by car). It offers trails and panoramic views of eroded lava formations. It is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and geology fans near Malargüe Airport!

Planetario Malargüe

Visit this fascinating planetarium in the city centre, 4 km from Malargüe Airport (5–10 min by car). Stargazing sessions and astronomy exhibits make it a great cultural and educational stop for families and curious travellers near Malargüe Airport!

Extra Tips

Getting Around: Malargüe is 1,000 km from Buenos Aires (12–14 hr by car or bus). The closest larger airport is SAME (Mendoza, 300 km).
Travel: City spots are 4–5 km away (taxi: 1,000–2,500 ARS); farther places like Las Leñas require a car or tour. Buses connect to Mendoza (300 km) or San Rafael (200 km).
Best Times to Visit:
Winter (Jun–Aug): Ideal for skiing at Las Leñas
Summer (Dec–Feb): Great for hiking and outdoor adventures
Spring/Autumn (Sep–Nov, Mar–May): Mild, perfect for nature exploration
Tips:
Carry Argentine Peso (ARS) cash:
Book a hotel (like Hotel Malargüe Inn & Suites) for peak seasons.
Try local specialities like goat dishes at restaurants in the city centre.
Call for aviation assistance: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150).