Catamarca Airport

Coronel Felipe Varela International Airport is the air gateway to the picturesque province of Catamarca in the northwest of Argentina. Named in honour of a local 19th-century military figure, the airport serves as a starting point for travellers wishing to explore the region's arid landscapes, towering mountains, and rich culture. Despite its modest size, the airport offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your journey. Located near the city, it plays a key role in the province's transport connection with the capital and other parts of the country.

Although Catamarca Airport is relatively small, it possesses everything necessary for passenger convenience. Regular flights are mainly operated by the national carrier Aerolíneas Argentinas, connecting the province with the capital. The terminal, which has been renovated and modernised, features a waiting lounge, a small café, ATMs, and souvenir shops. Taxi services and car rentals are available for travellers, making it easy to reach the city or embark on an independent journey through the region. The main advantage of the airport is its compactness and ease of navigation, which eliminates the stress typical of major transport hubs. The 2,800-metre runway is capable of accommodating various types of aircraft.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Coronel Felipe Varela Airport (CTC), serving the city of Catamarca.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000. Current information on flights and services can be found on their official website: www.aa2000.com.ar.
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries, you can call: (+54 383) 443-7571.
• Airport Address: Ruta Provincial Nº 33, km 9, (K4707XAD), Valle Viejo, Catamarca, Argentina.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website of the operator, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000.
• Social Media: You can follow general news and updates for all airports under the operator on their social media pages (Facebook, X, Instagram) under the handle @aa2000oficial.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline representative directly. Airport staff do not handle baggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance directly at the airport, please visit the information desk or use the main information service phone number.

Coronel Felipe Varela Airport (CTC) is located approximately 15 kilometres south of the city centre of Catamarca. There are several ways to get from the airport to the city or vice versa, each with its own features. On average, the journey takes about 20-30 minutes, but time may vary depending on traffic.

Taxi and Transfer — this is the most popular and convenient option. In the arrival zone, you will easily find official taxis (remises) that offer rides at set rates. This is a reliable way to get to your hotel without hassle. For maximum comfort, you can book a private transfer in advance: a driver will meet you with a sign and assist with luggage. This is the fastest, albeit the most expensive, method.

Value-conscious travellers may consider public transport. A bus runs between the airport and the city; however, its schedule can be irregular, and travelling with large luggage may not be very comfortable. This option is significantly cheaper than a taxi but requires more time and flexibility. We recommend checking the current route and schedule information on-site.

For those planning to explore the province, car rental is the ideal solution. Several rental agency counters operate at Catamarca airport. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement to explore the stunning landscapes of northwest Argentina at your own pace. It is recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during the high season.

If you are travelling to the airport by private vehicle, parking facilities are at your service. The area features zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is a convenient option if you wish to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Catamarca Airport (CTC), also known as Coronel Felipe Varela Airport, is a compact regional air hub characterised by a simple and clear structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, serving all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. The building is single-storey, and all key areas are within walking distance of each other. Immediately after entering the terminal, passengers find themselves in the general hall, where check-in counters and airline offices are located. Departure and arrival zones are located here as well, in different parts of the building. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings.

Check-in and security procedures at Catamarca Airport are significantly faster than at major aviation hubs. Due to the low passenger volume, queues here are a rarity. Usually, completing all formalities takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1-1.5 hours before departure to calmly check in luggage and pass through security control.

Navigating the terminal requires no effort. All signs are clear, and staff are always ready to assist. It is practically impossible to get lost here, making the stay at the airport maximally comfortable and relieving travellers of unnecessary stress before their flight.

The history of Catamarca Airport (CTC), officially known as Coronel Felipe Varela International Airport, begins in 1972. It was inaugurated on November 14 to replace the old airfield, which could no longer cope with the growing needs of the region. The airport received its name in honour of Felipe Varela — an important military and political figure in the history of Argentina in the 19th century, a native of these lands.

For decades, the airport served as the province's main air gateway, playing a key role in its economic and social life. It ensured stable connections with the country's capital and other cities, which was particularly important for the development of tourism and support for the mining industry. Without significant changes to infrastructure, it fulfilled its functions, but over time, the need for its radical modernisation arose.

The most significant event in the airport's history was a massive reconstruction completed in early 2021. During the works, a completely new, modern passenger terminal was built, a new control tower was erected, the runway was expanded and strengthened, and advanced navigation equipment was installed. This modernisation not only increased the level of safety and comfort for passengers but also allowed for the reception of larger aircraft, opening a new chapter in the development of the region's air connectivity.

An interesting fact: the site of Catamarca's first airfield, which this airport replaced, is now home to the city's main bus terminal. Thus, this location has retained its transport function. Today, Coronel Felipe Varela Airport is a modern and efficient transport hub, vital for connecting the province of Catamarca with the entire country and the world.

Coronel Felipe Varela Airport (CTC), serving the city of Catamarca, is a small regional air hub. Despite its compact size, it provides passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Within the terminal, there is a small café where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase soft drinks. The selection of establishments and shops is limited, but you can find a kiosk with essential goods and local souvenirs. There are no specialised VIP lounges or premium waiting areas at the airport; a general waiting hall is available for all passengers.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is usually available at the airport. Outlets for charging electronic devices can also be found in the waiting hall, although their number may be limited. The terminal typically houses an ATM, but currency exchange points and full-service bank branches are absent, so it is better to arrange currency exchange in the city beforehand.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with special needs: ramps and specially equipped restrooms are available. Passengers can request assistance and accompaniment from airline representatives. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is provided. In case first aid is required, a medical point operates on the airport premises.

There are no specialised business centres or conference halls in the airport building. There are also no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but the nearest accommodation options can easily be found in the city of Catamarca, which is a short distance from the airport.

Catamarca Airport (CTC), being a small regional airport, offers passengers basic but convenient dining options. There isn't a wide variety of restaurants here as found in major international hubs, but you will be able to have a snack or drink coffee while waiting for your flight. The main dining point is the single café located in the general hall of the terminal.

The cafeteria is located in the zone before security control (landside), making it accessible to departing passengers as well as those seeing them off or welcoming them. Here you can order coffee, tea, soft drinks, and fresh pastries, such as traditional Argentine croissants known as medialunas. For a more substantial snack, sandwiches, toasts, and local pies called empanadas are usually available. This establishment is suitable for both a quick coffee and a simple lunch.

When travelling through Argentina, it is worth trying local dishes. In the airport café, if you are lucky, you can find empanadas with regional fillings — this is a great way to get acquainted with Catamarca's cuisine. Regarding special dietary requirements, the selection here is extremely limited. Vegetarians may find options with cheese; however, for vegans, as well as for those adhering to a gluten-free or Halal diet, suitable dishes may not be available. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you.

The café's operating hours depend directly on the flight schedule — it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves. Please note that prices at the airport are generally significantly higher than in the city. If you have enough time, the best decision would be to have a full lunch or dinner at one of the numerous establishments in the city of Catamarca before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Catamarca Airport (Coronel Felipe Varela International Airport) goes smoothly, take advantage of our tips. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to go through all pre-flight formalities without rushing, even during peak hours.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline offers this option. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening area. Security control at a regional airport usually moves faster than at major hubs, but do keep your passport and boarding pass ready.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from or arriving in Catamarca, prefer a window seat. You will be treated to stunning views of the picturesque Andean mountain ranges, which will make for a wonderful start or end to your journey through this region of Argentina.

Carry-on luggage rules are standard: liquids are permitted in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. If you are bringing local bottled specialties or other gastronomic delights as souvenirs, they should be packed in checked baggage, after verifying transport rules with your airline.

Catamarca Airport serves primarily domestic flights. This means that when departing from here, you will likely head to a major transport hub, such as Buenos Aires, for a further connection to other national or international flights. Remember that customs control is passed at the first airport of arrival in the country, so this procedure is not required on domestic flights. Ensure you have enough time for your connection at the next airport.

To save money, book tickets in advance and consider travelling during the off-season. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be higher, so bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security. Pre-booking a taxi or transfer will also help avoid inflated prices.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, remain calm and contact your airline representative for information on flight status and possible options. Given that this is a small airport with a limited number of shops and cafés, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or pre-downloaded movies to pass the waiting time.