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Rafaela Airport Overview
Rafaela Airport (IATA: RAF, ICAO: SAFR) is a public airport serving Rafaela in Santa Fe Province, Argentina. Situated in the fertile Pampas region, it is approximately 8 km southwest of the city centre. It is a vital link for this vibrant agricultural hub, renowned for its dairy industry and motorsport heritage. The airport primarily supports general aviation, enhancing regional tourism and local commerce connectivity.
General Information
Serves: Rafaela, Santa Fe Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAFR
IATA: RAF
Elevation: 328 ft (100 m)
Coordinates: 31°16′57″S 61°30′06″W
Airport Type: Public (general aviation, no scheduled commercial flights)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international customs/immigration facilities)
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART, Argentine Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~8 km southwest of Rafaela 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)
Ground Handling Website: None (no specific ground handling website; operations managed by Aeroclub Rafaela; contact below)
Operational Details
Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 1,400 x 30 m (4,593 x 98 ft), asphalt
PCN: Not published (likely suitable for light aircraft; confirm with airport authority)
Fire Category: CAT 3–4 (estimated for small airports with general aviation focus)
Tower Frequency: None (likely uses standard traffic advisory frequency, e.g., 122.8 MHz; confirm with aeroclub)
Ground Frequency: None
Navaid: None (no on-site navaids documented; nearest VOR likely in Rosario or Paraná region)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Light aircraft (e.g., Cessna, Piper)
Terminal Capacity: None (no commercial passenger terminal)
Cargo Capacity: Minimal (limited to small packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas (confirm with aeroclub; Jet A-1 unlikely)
FBO: None available
Equipment Available: Basic ground handling (e.g., tie-downs, chocks; confirm specifics)
Ground Handler Information: No formal ground handling services are documented. Operations are managed by Aeroclub Rafaela, which provides basic support for general aviation (e.g., parking refuelling coordination). Contact Aeroclub at +54 3492 421 234 (unverified; general Rafaela aviation contact). External ground handlers from larger airports (e.g., Rosario) may be arranged for special operations, which is rare for Rafaela’s scale.
Operational Information
Permit Approval Lead Time: 48 hours
PPR: Not required
Slots: Not required
Alternate Airports:
- SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~500 km)
- SAAR (Rosario, ~100 km)
- SARI (Iguazú, ~900 km)
- Recommended: SAAP (Paraná, ~100 km), SASF (Santa Fe, ~80 km)
Contact Numbers
Police: +54 3492 422 111 (Rafaela Police, general line)
Fire: +54 3492 421 100 (Rafaela Fire Department)
Customs: Not applicable (no customs service)
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 3492 421 234 (Aeroclub Rafaela, 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:
- Hotel Parra (modern, central)
- Hotel Plaza Ben Hur (comfortable, mid-range)
- Hospedaje La Estación (budget-friendly)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Tourist Attractions Near Rafaela Airport
Rafaela is a lively city located 8 km from the airport, embodying the vibrant spirit of Argentina’s Pampas region. The fertile plains surrounding the City support a flourishing dairy industry and a strong passion for motorsport. Known for its cultural festivals, historical charm, and green spaces, Rafaela captivates visitors with its unique blend of rural tradition and urban energy. Attractions within 8–50 km are reachable by car or taxi in 10–60 minutes, offering exhilarating experiences.
Autódromo Ciudad de Rafaela
A legendary motorsport venue 10 km away, this iconic racetrack hosts thrilling car and motorcycle races, including Turismo Carretera events. Its museum and guided tours spark excitement for Argentina’s racing heritage.
Distance: ~10 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Heart-pounding motorsport experience, a must for adrenaline junkies and racing fans.
Plaza 25 de Mayo
Rafaela’s historic heart, this vibrant square radiates elegance with its majestic Catedral San Rafael and shaded paths. Evening markets and folk performances ignite the air, inviting travellers to sip mate with locals.
Distance: ~8 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Electric hub to dive into the City’s cultural pulse and Pampa’s warmth.
Museo Histórico Municipal
A captivating museum is 8 km away. It showcases Rafaela’s agricultural roots with vintage farming tools, immigrant artefacts, and exhibits on the region’s dairy industry. Its displays spark curiosity about the Pampas’ pioneering past.
Distance: ~8 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Explore the rich history of Rafaela, which is perfect for history enthusiasts seeking genuine stories.
Parque Balneario Municipal
A peaceful riverside park located 12 km away, this green oasis along the Salado River features picnic areas, walking trails,
Distance: ~12 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: This thrilling blend of nature and community spirit is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fiesta Nacional de la Leche
A vibrant September festival, this celebration of Rafaela’s dairy industry features cheese and milk tastings, live music, and agricultural showcases. Held in the city centre, it draws crowds for a joyous tribute to the Pampas’ lifeblood.
Distance: ~8 km (10–15 min by car, city centre).
Why Visit: Exhilarating immersion in Argentina’s dairy culture, ideal for foodies and festival-goers.
Additional Notes
Connectivity: 500 km from Buenos Aires (5–6 hr by car/bus, Ruta Nacional 34). The nearest commercial airport is SAAR (Rosario, 100 km).
Accessibility: Urban attractions 8–12 km (taxi: 1,200–2,500 ARS); rural sites require car/tours—buses to Rosario (100 km), Santa Fe (80 km).
Seasonal Highlights: September for Fiesta de la Leche; summer (Dec–Feb) for park activities; spring (Sep–Nov) for mild weather.
Practical Tips: Carry ARS; book accommodations (e.g., Hotel Parra) for the festival season; savour local cheeses at La Cabaña. Contact Aeroclub Rafaela (+54 3492 421 234) for ground handling.
