Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport Overview

Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (IATA: SLA, ICAO: SASA) is an international airport serving Salta, the capital of Salta Province, Argentina. Located in a picturesque region surrounded by the Andes mountains and vibrant colonial architecture, the airport is approximately 10 km (a 15–20 minute drive) from the city centre. Operated by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, it handles domestic and international flights and serves as a key gateway for tourists visiting Salta’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and nearby Andean attractions.

General Information

Location: Salta, Salta Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
IATA Code: SLA
ICAO Code: SASA
Height Above Sea: 4,082 feet (1,244 metres)
Coordinates: 24°51′36″S 65°29′10″W
Airport Type: Public/International
Flights: Domestic flights to Buenos Aires, Mendoza; international flights to Bolivia, Chile, and Paraguay
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight saving)
Distance from City: Approximately 10 km from Salta 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: 1
Longest Runway: 3,000 x 45 metres (9,843 x 148 feet), constructed from asphalt
Runway Strength: Suitable for large jets like Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 (verify with airport)
Fire Services: CAT 7 (firefighting for international airports)
Tower Frequency: 118.6 MHz (confirm with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.9 MHz (confirm with airport)
Navigation Assistance: Yes (Salta VOR/DME, ID: SLA, 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: Moderate (supports agricultural exports and passenger flights)
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 tourist seasons (check with the airport)
Backup Airports:
SAEZ: Buenos Aires (1,300 km)
SACO: Córdoba (750 km)
SANT: Tucumán (~300 km)
Recommended: SANT (Tucumán, ~300 km), SAJU (Jujuy, ~70 km)

Contact Information

Police: +54 387 421 1234 (Salta Police)
Fire Brigade: +54 387 422 2100 (Salta Fire Brigade)
Customs: +54 387 423 5678 (Salta 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, local buses (journey to city: 1,500–3,000 ARS)
Accommodation:
Alejandro I Hotel: Luxurious, in the city centre
Hotel Salta: Comfortable, reasonably priced
Hostel Prisamata: Budget-friendly, simple
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Nearby Attractions Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport

Salta, just 10 km from Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport, is a cultural gem known for its colonial architecture, vibrant festivals, and access to Andean landscapes. These attractions, located 10–50 km away (15–60 minutes by car or taxi), are must-visit spots for travellers exploring Salta Airport!

Plaza 9 de Julio

Stroll through Salta’s historic central square, 10 km from Salta Airport (15–20 min by car). Surrounded by colonial buildings, the Salta Cathedral, and lively cafés, it’s a vibrant hub for culture seekers and families near Salta Airport!

Tren a las Nubes

Experience one of the world’s highest train journeys, starting 15 km from Salta Airport (20–25 min by car). This scenic ride through the Andes offers breathtaking views, which are a must for adventure travellers near Salta Airport!

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, 150 km from Salta Airport (2–2.5 hr by car or tour). Known for its colourful mountains and indigenous culture, it’s a top destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers near Salta Airport!

Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM)

Visit this fascinating museum, 10 km from Salta Airport (15–20 min by car). It showcases Inca artefacts and the famous Llullaillaco mummies. It is a must-see for history buffs near Salta Airport!

Cafayate Wine Region

Discover Argentina’s high-altitude wine country, 180 km from Salta Airport (2.5–3 hr by car or tour). Tour wineries like Bodega El Esteco for Torrontés tastings, which are perfect for wine enthusiasts near Salta Airport!

Extra Tips

Getting Around: Salta is 1,300 km from Buenos Aires (16–18 hr by car or bus). The closest larger airport is SACO (Córdoba, 750 km).
Travel: City spots are 10–12 km away (taxi: 1,500–3,000 ARS); farther places like Cafayate require a car or tour. Buses connect to Tucumán (300 km) or Jujuy (70 km).
Best Times to Visit:
Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm, ideal for festivals and outdoor activities
Spring/Autumn (Sep–Nov, Mar–May): Mild, great for wine tours and hiking
Winter (Jun–Aug): Cooler, quieter time
Tips:
Carry Argentine Peso (ARS) cash:
Book a hotel (like Alejandro I Hotel) for peak seasons.
Try local empanadas: at restaurants like Doña Salta.
Call for aviation assistance: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150).