Colombia, known as the “Gateway to South America”, is among the most geographically and culturally diverse nations. Situated on the continent’s northwestern side, it boasts the second-highest level of biodiversity and is one of the 17 mega-diverse nations. Colombia’s rainforests, highlands, grasslands, diverse flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage, and deserts attract tourists from across the world. The country has a wide network of airports to cater to the tourist rush. Knowing about these airports is essential for planning a successful itinerary.
This blog talks about the major international and domestic airports in Colombia.
International Airports in Colombia
Here is a list of international airports in Colombia:
1. El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Bogotá
El Dorado International Airport, Colombia's major hub for Avianca Airlines, is among the busiest in the country. It is located 15 km west of the city centre. Opened in 1959, the airport connects Colombia to major cities worldwide. Recently renovated and modernised, it offers enhanced facilities to welcome travellers.
- Location: Av. El Dorado #103-9, Fontibón, Bogotá, Colombia
- ICAO: SKBO
- IATA Code: BOG
- Category: International airport
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals:
- Punta Aereo: It takes care of domestic flights.
- El Dorado: It oversees the international flights.
- Facilities Available: Medical facilities, lost property desks, currency exchange counters, immigration offices, parenting rooms, and more.
2. Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), Cartagena
Situated 11.1 km from Cartagena, Rafael Núñez International Airport in Colombia was established in 1920 and named after former president Rafael Núñez. It operates both domestic and international flights and serves as a gateway for travellers exploring Caribbean beaches and colonial architecture.
- Location: Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
- ICAO: SKCG
- IATA Code: CTG
- Category: International airport
- Terminals: The airport has one terminal.
- Facilities Available: Wheelchair accessibility for the disabled, currency exchange desks, pharmacy, charging points, cafeterias and restaurants, etc.
3. Palmaseca International Airport (CLO), Palmira and Cali
Also known as Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, it began operations in 1933 and is Colombia's 4th busiest international airport. Located 15.4 km from Palmira and 19 km from Cali, it serves as a major transportation hub for exploring the country’s southwest regions.
- Location: Palmira, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
- ICAO: SKCL
- IATA Code: CLO
- Category: International airport
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals
- The International Terminal oversees international flights with six boarding gates
- The Domestic Terminal takes care of domestic and regional flights.
- Facilities Available: Service counters, currency exchange desks, retail shops, a prayer chapel, etc.
4. Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR), Santa Marta
Inaugurated in the 1940s, Simon Bolivar International Airport in Colombia is 14 km south of Santa Marta. Named after the military and political leader Simon Bolivar, it serves the Santa Marta region and the surrounding areas, including popular tourist destinations like the Caribbean Coast and Tayrona National Park.
- Location: Santa Marta, Bolivar, Colombia
- IATA Code: SMR
- ICAO: SKSM
- Category: International airport
- Terminals: The airport has a single terminal.
- Facilities Available: Banking services, car rentals, pharmacy, chapel, cosy lounges, currency exchange counters, medical facilities, etc.
Domestic Airports in Colombia
Some domestic airports in Columbia are listed below:
1. Antonio Narino Airport (PSO), Chachagui, Pasto
Situated 20 km from Pasto in the country’s Narino Department, Antonio Narino Airport is among the busiest domestic airports in Colombia. In addition to regional passenger flights, the airport offers private charter and military flights. Charter flights provide a unique opportunity to explore the region’s beauty.
- Location: Aeropuerto, Antonio Nariño, Chachagüí, Nariño, Colombia
- ICAO: SKPS
- IATA Code: PSO
- Category: Domestic airport
- Terminals: The airport consists of a single terminal.
- Facilities Available: Currency exchanges, pharmacy, prayer rooms, retiring rooms, and more.
2. Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH), Medellín
Opened in 1932, Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport is 5.8 km from Medellin. This domestic airport of Colombia operates domestic and regional flights, allowing travellers to explore and discover the country’s lesser-known charms. Airlines such as Aerocondor Colombia, Aerotal, Avianca, Copa Airlines, and World Airways operate flights to different regions, including remote locations.
- Location: Cra. 65 #13-157, Guayabal, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
- ICAO: SKMD
- IATA Code: EOH
- Category: Domestic airport
- Terminals: The airport consists of a single terminal.
- Facilities Available: ATMs, currency exchange, pharmacy, SIM cards, travel agencies, etc.
3. Alfonso Lopez Airport (VUP), Valledupar, Colombia
Located 5.8 km from Valledupar, Alfonso Lopez Airport manages flights from airlines like LATAM Colombia, EasyFly and Avianca. It connects the province of Valledupar to the rest of Colombia. In addition to being a domestic airport in Colombia, Alfonso Lopez Airport serves as the airbase for Colombian police and the country’s air force unit.
- Location: Km 5 de, Valledupar, Cesar, Colombia
- ICAO: SKVP
- IATA Code: VUP
- Category: Military air base and domestic airport
- Terminals: The airport has a single terminal for aviation-related needs.
- Services Available: ATM, currency exchange offices, mobile telephony centre, medical facilities, travel agency, etc.
Conclusion
Airports in Colombia are vital hubs that boost connectivity and ensure a smooth travel experience for tourists with state-of-the-art facilities. Before setting off on your trip to Colombia, familiarising yourself with various travel options is important. Colombia’s airports are well-maintained and offer a seamless experience through their amenities.
Regardless of where you travel in Colombia, having peace of mind is necessary for making your trip fun and memorable. You can ensure this by purchasing international travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events you may encounter during your trip. If you are traveling one way, you can also secure your one-way travel with the help of single trip travel insurance for hassle-free travel experience.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.