El Salvador International Airport Overview

El Salvador International Airport (IATA: SAL – ICAO: MSLP), officially known as El Salvador International Airport Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez, is the primary public international airport serving San Salvador and the broader region of El Salvador. Located in San Luis Talpa, approximately 50 kilometres southeast of the capital city, the airport is the main gateway for international travel to and from the country. It serves as a hub for Avianca El Salvador.

General Information

  • Location: San Luis Talpa, La Paz Department (serving San Salvador)
  • Country: El Salvador
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: SAL
  • ICAO Code: MSLP
  • Elevation: 101 feet (31 metres)
  • Coordinates: 13°26′44″N 089°03′18″W
  • Timezone: UTC−6 (Central Standard Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 50 km (31 miles) southeast of San Salvador
  • Website: www.aeropuertoelsalvador.gob.sv
  • Operator: Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (CEPA)
  • Services: Scheduled international passenger and cargo flights, charter services, and general aviation

Airport Details

  • Runways: 1
  • Runway Designation and Length:
    • 07/25: 3,200 m (10,499 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surface: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Supports narrow-body, wide-body, and long-haul aircraft
  • Fire Services: ICAO Category 9
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS CAT I, VOR/DME, RNAV, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: Available 24/7 for commercial and GA traffic
  • Aircraft Types: Regional jets, narrow-body and wide-body commercial aircraft, private jets
  • Terminals: One main passenger terminal (with recent expansion and modernisation)
  • Cargo Facilities: On-site cargo terminal handling imports/exports and express freight
  • Fuel: JET A-1 available
  • FBOs: Aeroman (limited GA support), general handling via CEPA
  • Equipment: GPU, potable water, lavatory, basic hangarage, aircraft parking stands
  • Ground Services: Commercial and limited general aviation services

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for charter or international GA flights
  • Permission Required: Yes, for foreign-registered and non-scheduled flights
  • Slots: Required during peak periods
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code E (B777, A330); limited Code F capability
  • Alternate Airports:
    • SAP: Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (Honduras)
    • MGA: Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (Nicaragua)

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: Valid passport; visa policies vary by nationality
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa as applicable
  • Transport Options: Airport taxis, hotel shuttles, private transfers, car hire
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Near Airport: Quality Hotel Real Aeropuerto, Hotel Rancho Estero y Mar
    • In San Salvador: Barceló San Salvador, Real InterContinental, Sheraton Presidente
  • Currency: United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency; credit/debit cards are widely accepted

Local Attractions

San Salvador Volcano (El Boquerón)

A scenic volcano offering hiking trails and panoramic views, located just west of the capital.

Historic Downtown San Salvador

Explore landmarks like the National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and vibrant markets.

Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Pompeii of the Americas”—an ancient Maya village preserved in volcanic ash.

El Tunco Beach

A famous surfing destination on the Pacific coast, popular with locals and international travellers alike.

Lake Coatepeque

A stunning crater lake offering water sports, dining, and relaxing views—ideal for day trips.

Suchitoto

A colonial town north of the capital known for art, festivals, cobbled streets, and lake views.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Most popular for tourism and outdoor activities
    • Green Season (May–Oct): Lush landscapes and fewer crowds
  • Additional Notes:
    • CBP-style entry includes quick customs clearance and passport control
    • The airport is equipped with modern facilities following the recent terminal expansion
    • Serves as a strategic stopover point between North and South America
    • Popular airport for NGO, diplomatic, and missionary aviation traffic

El Salvador International Airport offers a modern and well-connected entry point to Central America, with growing regional significance and easy access to the country’s natural beauty, culture, and emerging business opportunities.