Paraná Airport Overview

Paraná Airport (IATA: PRA, ICAO: SAAP) is a public airport serving Paraná in Entre Ríos Province, Argentina. Situated in the lush Mesopotamia region, it is approximately 7 km southeast of the city centre. It is a key hub for this vibrant riverside capital, renowned for its cultural heritage and proximity to the Paraná River. The airport supports general aviation and limited commercial flights, enhancing regional connectivity for tourism and commerce.

General Information

Serves: Paraná, Entre Ríos Province, Argentina

Country: Argentina

ICAO: SAAP

IATA: PRA

Elevation: 243 ft (74 m)

Coordinates: 31°47′42″S 60°28′49″W

Airport Type: Public (general aviation, limited commercial flights)

Domestic/International: Domestic (no international customs/immigration facilities)

Timezone: UTC-3 (ART, Argentine Time, no daylight savings)

Distance from City: ~7 km southeast of Paraná city centre (10–15 min by car)

Official Airport Website: None (no dedicated website; managed by local authorities or ANAC, www.anac.gov.ar for general aviation info)

Operational Details

Runways: 1

Longest Runway: 2,100 x 45 m (6,890 x 148 ft), asphalt

PCN: Not published (likely suitable for light to medium aircraft; confirm with airport authority)

Fire Category: CAT 5–6 (estimated for small airports with occasional commercial flights)

Tower Frequency: 118.1 MHz (confirm with airport authority)

Ground Frequency: None

Navaid: Yes (Paraná VOR/DME, Ident: PAR, on-site)

AOE (Airport of Entry): No

Type of Aircraft Handled: Light to medium aircraft (e.g., Cessna, Piper, ATR-72 for occasional commercial flights)

Terminal Capacity: Minimal (small passenger terminal for occasional flights)

Cargo Capacity: Minimal (limited to small packages for private flights)

Fuel Types: Avgas, Jet A-1 (confirm availability with Aeroclub)

FBO: None available

Equipment Available: Basic ground handling (e.g., tie-downs, chocks, passenger stairs; confirm specifics)

Ground Handler Information: No formal ground handling services documented. Aeroclub Paraná or local airport authorities manage operations, providing basic support for general aviation and occasional commercial flights (e.g., parking refuelling coordination). Contact Aeroclub at +54 343 421 234 (unverified; general Paraná aviation contact). External ground handlers from larger airports (e.g., Buenos Aires) may be arranged for special operations, but rare for Paraná’s scale.

Operational Information

Permit Approval Lead Time: 48 hours

PPR: Not required

Slots: Not required

Alternate Airports:  

  • SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~350 km)  
  • SAAR (Rosario, ~130 km)  
  • SARI (Iguazú, ~800 km)  
  • Recommended: SASF (Sauce Viejo, ~30 km), SAAC (Concordia, ~250 km)

Contact Numbers

Police: +54 343 422 111 (Paraná Police, general line)

Fire: +54 343 421 100 (Paraná Fire Department)

Customs: Not applicable (no customs service)

Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 343 421 234 (Aeroclub Paraná, unverified)

Tourist Information

Immigration Rules: Valid passport; visa for some nationalities (USA, EU, Canada visa-free for 90 days)

Crew Requirements: Uniform, passport, visa (if applicable), Gendec for private flights

Ground Transport: Limited car rentals, local buses, non-metered taxis (fare to City: 1,200–2,500 ARS, negotiate)

Accommodation:  

  • Maran Suites & Towers (modern, central)  
  • Hotel Gran Paraná (comfortable, mid-range)  
  • Posada de la Costanera (budget-friendly)
  • Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Tourist Attractions Near Paraná Airport

Paraná, a vibrant riverside city just 7 km from the airport, pulses with the lively spirit of Argentina’s Mesopotamia, where the Paraná River weaves through verdant landscapes. As the capital of Entre Ríos, it captivates with its historic architecture, cultural festivals, and natural splendour. Attractions within 7–50 km are reachable by car or taxi in 10–60 minutes, offering exhilarating experiences.

Costanera de Paraná

The City’s scenic riverfront along the Paraná River dazzles with tree-lined promenades, sandy beaches, and vibrant sunsets. Kayaking, cycling, and lively cafés spark an electric atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the Mesopotamian charm.

Distance: ~7 km (10–15 min by car).

Why Visit: Heart-pounding adventures or serene escapes by the river, blending nature and local vibrancy.

Plaza 1º de Mayo

Paraná’s historic heart, this bustling square radiates elegance with its majestic Catedral de Paraná and shaded paths. Evening markets and folk performances ignite the air, inviting travellers to sip mate with locals.

Distance: ~7 km (10–15 min by car).

Why Visit: Electric hub to dive into the City’s cultural pulse and subtropical warmth.

Museo Histórico de Entre Ríos

A captivating museum housed in a 19th-century mansion showcasing Paraná’s colonial past with Guaraní artefacts, gaucho relics, and tales of the region’s revolutionary history. Its grand halls spark curiosity about Entre Ríos’ heritage.

Distance: ~7 km (10–15 min by car).

Why Visit: Deep dive into Mesopotamia’s storied past, ideal for history enthusiasts craving authentic narratives.

Parque Urquiza

A sprawling riverside park 8 km away, this green oasis offers panoramic views of the Paraná River, walking trails, and historic monuments. Its lush gardens and open-air theatre host vibrant festivals, blending nature and culture.

Distance: ~8 km (10–15 min by car).

Why Visit: Exhilarating blend of scenic beauty and cultural events perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Termas de María Grande

A soothing thermal spa 50 km away, featuring mineral-rich hot springs at 38–42°C, nestled in a tranquil rural setting. Wellness treatments and pools offer a rejuvenating escape amid the lush Entre Ríos landscape.

Distance: ~50 km (50–60 min by car).

Why Visit: This thrilling retreat combines relaxation and nature, ideal for unwinding in a subtropical haven.

Additional Notes

Connectivity: 350 km from Buenos Aires (4–5 hr by car/bus, Ruta Nacional 12). The nearest commercial airport is SAAR (Rosario, 130 km).

Accessibility: Urban attractions 7–10 km (taxi: 1,200–2,500 ARS); rural sites require car/tours—buses to Rosario (130 km), Concordia (250 km).

Seasonal Highlights: Summer (Dec–Feb) for river activities and festivals; spring (Sep–Nov) for mild weather; February for local carnivals.

Practical Tips: Carry ARS; book accommodations (e.g., Maran Suites) for peak seasons; savour chipá at Comedor La Ribera. Contact Aeroclub Paraná (+54 343 421 234) for ground handling.