Esquel Airport

Imagine landing at the very foot of the Andes, where the view from your window reveals breathtaking snow-capped peaks and endless valleys. Esquel Airport is not just a transport hub, but a cosy and modern gateway to the wild nature of Argentine Patagonia. From the very first moment, this newly renovated air terminal sets the right mood for travellers, promising an imminent encounter with the legendary Los Alerces National Park and the ski slopes of La Hoya.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Brigadier General Antonio Parodi Airport stands out among other regional hubs due to its novelty and thoughtful design.

• Modern Architecture and Design: Following a massive reconstruction completed in 2021, the terminal has acquired a unique look. The building is designed taking into account the region's harsh climate and seismic activity, while its roof and façade blend harmoniously with the surrounding mountain landscape.
• Panoramic Views: Huge windows in the waiting hall turn waiting for a flight into part of the excursion. Passengers can admire the majestic scenery of the mountain range without leaving the warm interior, which is especially valuable during the winter season.
• Cosiness and Tranquillity: Thanks to its small size and smart spatial organisation, there is almost none of the hustle and bustle typical of large capital airports. Completing all formalities takes minimum time, allowing tourists to relax before their flight.
• Eco-friendliness: The new terminal was built using "green" technologies aimed at energy efficiency and environmental preservation, highlighting the region's respect for its unique nature.

Below you will find contact information that may be useful when planning your trip through Esquel Airport.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can always be found on the official airport page www.aa2000.com.ar/esquel, which is maintained by the operator Aeropuertos Argentina 2000.
• Information Desk Phone: For questions related to the operation of Esquel Airport, you can contact the numbers: (+54 2945) 451847 / 453573.
• Address: The airport is located at: Ruta Nacional 40, (U9200) Esquel, Chubut Province, Argentina.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow general news from the operator Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 on their pages on Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative at the airport immediately. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the Airport Security Police (PSA).
• Passenger Support Contacts: for assistance and enquiries, you can approach the information desk in the airport terminal or call the help desk numbers listed above.

Esquel Airport (EQS) is located approximately 21 kilometres east of the city centre of Esquel, in the very heart of Patagonia, a picturesque region of Argentina. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport or vice versa. On average, a trip by car takes about 20-30 minutes, but time may vary depending on road conditions.

Taxis and Transfers are the easiest and most reliable way to reach your destination. In Esquel, besides regular taxis, "remises" services are popular — these are private cars with a driver operating at a fixed rate. You can order a car by phone, via an app, or directly at your hotel. This is the most comfortable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage, but also the most expensive. Also, some travel agencies offer group transfers, which may be slightly more economical.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who want to freely explore the surroundings of Esquel and Los Alerces National Park. Several rental agencies have representatives at the airport. To guarantee the availability of a car of the desired class and get the best price, it is strongly recommended to book a car online in advance, especially during the high tourist season (from December to February).

Regarding public transport, direct and regular bus service between the city centre and the airport is limited or non-existent. Unlike major metropolises, this is common practice for small regional airports in Argentina. Sometimes private minibuses (combis) may operate, with schedules tied to flight arrivals and departures, but this is not the most reliable option for trip planning. There is no metro or rail service in the city.

For those arriving at the airport by private or rented car, parking is available on the terminal grounds. Here you can leave your car for a short time for pick-ups or drop-offs, as well as for a longer period during your trip. Parking services are paid, and the cost depends on the duration of the stay.

Esquel Airport (EQS) is a small regional airport serving the city of the same name and acting as a gateway to the picturesque corners of Argentine Patagonia. Its structure is extremely simple and clear, making your stay here comfortable and eliminating the stress typical of large aviation hubs.

The airport has one passenger terminal that handles both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to the compact size of the building, navigation is intuitive, and getting lost here is practically impossible. All main areas — check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, and the baggage claim belt — are within walking distance of each other. There are no transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in a single building.

Departure and arrival zones are located in different parts of the terminal. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general area with check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers pass through the single security checkpoint, which leads to a small but cosy departure lounge. The arrival zone is located on the other side and includes a baggage claim belt and the exit to the city.

Check-in and screening procedures at Esquel Airport usually go very quickly due to low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure to complete all formalities without rushing. During peak tourist seasons or when several flights depart simultaneously, waiting times may increase slightly. Overall, the airport is distinguished by its functionality and calm atmosphere, allowing travellers to easily and quickly start or finish their adventure in Patagonia.

The history of aviation in Esquel began long before the appearance of the modern terminal. The first airfield was opened here in 1944, becoming an important step in developing transport accessibility for this picturesque corner of Patagonia. This initially modest flying field laid the foundation for future air links between the region and the rest of Argentina.

A pivotal moment in the airport's history occurred on 17 April 1978, when a new modern complex was inaugurated. The airport was officially named in honour of Brigadier General Antonio Parodi, one of the pioneers of Argentine military and civil aviation. This event gave a powerful boost to tourism development, making the region's unique natural beauties much more accessible to travellers from all over the world.

Since its opening, the airport has played a key role as the main aerial gateway for thousands of tourists. Travellers fly here to visit the famous Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the popular ski resort "La Hoya". The airport has become an integral part of the tourism infrastructure and economy of Chubut Province.

To meet growing demands and modern standards, a large-scale modernization of the airport was carried out in 2019-2021. During the works, a completely new passenger terminal with an area of 4,000 sq. m was built, a modern control tower was erected, and the runway was reconstructed and extended. These improvements significantly increased passenger comfort and allowed the airport to accept larger aircraft, opening new prospects for the region's development.

Esquel Airport (EQS) is a small regional airport that provides passengers with all basic amenities for a comfortable wait before departure. Despite its compact size, the terminal offers a set of necessary services for travellers arriving in this picturesque corner of Argentine Patagonia.

For dining and shopping, the airport has a café-confectionery where you can order drinks, sandwiches, and pastries. There is also a small souvenir shop selling locally produced goods, press, and daily necessities. There are no specialised high-comfort lounges (VIP lounges) at the airport.

Passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Power outlets are provided for charging gadgets; however, their number may be limited, so it is worth bringing a portable power bank. An ATM is installed in the airport building, but for exchanging large amounts of currency, it is recommended to visit banks in the city of Esquel.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: ramps and accessible restrooms are available. Passengers requiring additional assistance should notify their airline in advance. For families with children, there are changing tables in the restrooms. If necessary, you can contact the medical point for first aid. Hotels, business centres, and conference halls are absent on the airport territory; the nearest hotels are located in the city.

Esquel Airport (EQS) is a small regional air hub serving mainly domestic flights. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited and not comparable to the assortment at major international airports. Dining options are designed for passengers waiting for their flight and offer a basic set of services for a comfortable wait.

All available options are generally concentrated in one cafeteria located in the main hall of the terminal, in the public zone (landside), before security control. After screening (airside), there are usually no food outlets. This small establishment operates on a flexible schedule that depends directly on the flight arrival and departure timetable, opening shortly before flights and closing after their departure.

In the cafeteria menu, you will find a standard set for a quick snack. Typically, this includes:

• Hot drinks: coffee, tea, mate.
• Soft drinks, juices, and water.
• Classic Argentine pastries: croissants (medialunas), cakes, and cookies.
• Simple sandwiches (sandwiches de miga) with ham and cheese.
• Sometimes you can find local chocolates or alfajores — traditional cookies with filling — for sale.

Regarding special dietary needs, the airport's capabilities are extremely limited. Vegetarians can count on pastries or meat-free sandwiches; however, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal meals is practically impossible. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices in the cafeteria are typical for airports — higher than in city establishments.

Thus, Esquel Airport is excellent for a quick snack and a cup of coffee before departure. However, if you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is better to do this in advance at one of the restaurants in the city of Esquel before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Esquel goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This small regional airport is the gateway to picturesque Patagonia, and knowing a few nuances will make your experience more comfortable.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. Esquel Airport (EQS) is not very large, so there are rarely long queues here. It is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if this option is available.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. The screening procedure is standard. Remember the general rules: liquids (including drinks, creams, gels) can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp, piercing, and cutting objects are prohibited in hand luggage. Considering you are in Argentina, do not attempt to carry local delicacies subject to restrictions (for example, certain types of cheeses or meat products without factory vacuum packaging) in your hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Connections. When flying in Patagonia, try to choose a window seat. Views of the Andes and lakes can be simply breathtaking, especially during take-off and landing. Most flights from Esquel fly to major hubs, for example, Buenos Aires. If you have a connecting flight, ensure there is enough time between flights (minimum 2-3 hours), especially if you need to collect and re-check luggage.

Customs Control. Since Esquel Airport serves primarily domestic flights, customs control is rarely undergone here. You will likely complete all customs and immigration formalities at your first airport of arrival in the country, for example, in Buenos Aires.

Economy and Flight Delays. To save money, book a taxi or transfer to the city in advance. Prices for food and drinks in small airports may be higher, so it is worth bringing an empty water bottle (which can be filled after screening) and a light snack. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative. They are obliged to provide you with information on the flight status and, depending on the delay duration, offer drinks or meals.