La Rioja Airport

La Rioja Airport, proudly bearing the name of the renowned aviator Vicente Almandos Almonacid, is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to a land of red rocks and vast vineyards. Despite its modest size, this air terminal charms travellers with a calm, almost homely atmosphere and stunning views of the Sierra de Velasco mountain ranges, which open up right from the runway. For many tourists, this is where the exciting journey to the lunar landscapes of Ischigualasto Park and the Talampaya canyons begins, making the first introduction to the province unforgettable.

This small regional airport possesses several features that distinguish it favourably from large transfer hubs:

Compactness and Speed. Thanks to the low passenger flow and the thoughtful layout of the single terminal, all pre-flight procedures here are completed surprisingly quickly. You will not have to stand in long queues for check-in or security screening, allowing you to arrive at the airport a little later than usual and save precious holiday time.

Scenic Location. The airport is located in the foothills of the Andes, and upon landing, passengers are greeted with a magnificent panorama of rugged yet beautiful mountain landscapes. Waiting for a flight with a view of the Sierra de Velasco peaks is a distinct aesthetic pleasure rarely found in metropolises.

Modern Infrastructure. Despite its regional status, the airport is regularly updated. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, a comfortable waiting area, and a small café with local snacks. Recent modernization works on the terminal and runway have made it even more convenient and safe for receiving modern aircraft.

Below is the essential contact information for La Rioja Airport, which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

• Official Website: You can find current information about flights, services, and airport regulations on the operator's official portal: www.aa2000.com.ar/larioja.
• Inquiry Service Phone: You can call the airport at the following numbers: (+54 380) 446-2401 or (+54 380) 446-2403.
• Address: The airport is located at: Ruta Nacional Nº 38, Km 491, (F5300) La Rioja, Argentina.
• Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the website, as a public email for general communication is not provided.
• Social Media: News and updates can be tracked on the pages of the management company, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, on popular social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. The airport service does not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultation and assistance at the airport, please approach the information desk in the terminal or call the inquiry service.

La Rioja Airport (IRJ), officially known as Captain Vicente Almandos Almonacid Airport, is located just 7 kilometres from the city centre of La Rioja. Due to this proximity, the journey to the terminal usually does not take much time. Travellers have several transport options available, each with its own features.

Taxi and Transfer (Remis). The simplest and most convenient way to get to the airport is to use a taxi or a "remis," a private car service popular in Argentina with a pre-agreed fare. The trip from the city centre will take approximately 15-20 minutes. This is the most predictable and comfortable option, especially if you are travelling with luggage. The estimated cost of the trip is the equivalent of 5–10 US dollars in local currency. However, we strongly recommend confirming the exact price with the driver before departure or using official services.

Public Transport. Direct public transport connections to La Rioja airport are limited. City buses (colectivos) generally do not enter the airport grounds directly. This option may suit experienced and budget-conscious tourists who are travelling light and are willing to walk from the nearest stop on the highway. Before travelling, it is essential to check current route information with locals.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively explore the province and its natural beauties, car rental will be the ideal solution. Rental company counters can be found both at the airport and in the city. For your convenience, the airport has a car park where you can leave your vehicle for a short or long period. This is convenient for those arriving in their own transport or seeing off departing passengers.

Alternative Airports. Although La Rioja Airport is the most convenient for visiting the city, it is worth considering alternative options. Sometimes more favourable flights can be found to neighbouring airports. The nearest one is Catamarca Airport (CTC), located approximately 135 km away. Other options, though more distant, are the airports in San Juan (UAQ) and San Miguel de Tucumán (TUC). Arriving in these cities, you will need to additionally plan a ground transfer to La Rioja, for example, by intercity bus or rental car.

La Rioja Airport, also known as Captain Vicente Almandos Almonacid Airport (IRJ), is a small regional air terminal serving the province of the same name in Argentina. Its structure is extremely simple and straightforward, making it convenient for passengers.

The airport consists of one compact terminal that handles both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about transfers between different buildings or complex navigation. All key areas are within walking distance of each other.

The terminal layout is very logical. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general hall where airline check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, you proceed to the security screening area. Immediately behind it is a small waiting lounge for departing passengers with several boarding gates. The arrivals area is located in the same part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city.

Since there is only one terminal, movement between zones takes minimal time. Check-in and pre-flight security procedures here are significantly faster than at large international airports. Typically, all formalities take no more than 20-30 minutes, however, it is always recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, following your airline's advice — usually 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure.

For navigation, simply follow the signs, which are clearly visible and easy to understand. Airport staff are always ready to help and give directions. In general, getting lost in La Rioja Airport is practically impossible, making it ideal for travellers who value simplicity and speed.

The history of La Rioja Airport, officially known as Captain Vicente Almandos Almonacid Airport (Aeropuerto Capitán Vicente Almandos Almonacid), is closely linked to the development of aviation in Argentina and the desire to connect remote regions with the capital. The air harbour was inaugurated in 1948, becoming an important transport hub for the entire province.

The airport received its name in honour of a true hero and aviation pioneer — Vicente Almandos Almonacid, a native of La Rioja. This brave pilot gained fame in the early 20th century, participating in World War I with the French Air Force and becoming one of the first to complete a night flight across the Andes. Naming the airport after him is a tribute to his contribution to global and Argentine aviation.

For decades, the airport served as a key link, primarily receiving regional flights. A significant phase of modernization occurred in the 21st century. In the 2010s, a major reconstruction was carried out: the runway was widened and strengthened to accommodate larger modern aircraft, such as the Boeing 737. The terminal building was also renovated to improve passenger comfort.

Today, La Rioja Airport is not just an infrastructure facility, but a symbol of the region's connection with the rest of the world. Although it does not break records for passenger traffic on a national scale, its main achievement is the reliable and stable provision of transport accessibility for residents and guests of the province, playing a key role in its economic and tourism development.

La Rioja Airport (IRJ), officially known as Captain Vicente Almandos Almonacid Airport, is a small but functional regional airport serving the city of La Rioja and its surroundings in Argentina. Despite its modest size, it offers passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Inside the terminal, there is a cafeteria where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase soft drinks before departure. Here, you can typically also find a small kiosk with newspapers and souvenirs. The choice of shops is limited, so one should not count on extensive shopping.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Outlets for charging electronic devices can also be found in the waiting lounge, although their number may be limited. The airport has an ATM for cash withdrawals, however, currency exchange bureaus are generally absent, which is typical for airports serving primarily domestic flights.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. If necessary, you can request assistance from airline or airport staff for moving through the terminal and boarding the aircraft. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms are provided. Regarding VIP lounges and business centres, due to the airport's regional status, such services are usually not offered. Medical assistance is limited to a first aid station.

There are no specialized hotels within the airport grounds, but the nearest hotels and apartments are located in the city of La Rioja itself, which can be quickly reached by taxi or transfer.

La Rioja Airport (IRJ) is a compact regional air terminal, so the choice of establishments here corresponds to its size. Dining options are mainly concentrated in one cafeteria located in the main hall of the terminal, in the public area before security control. This makes it convenient for both departing passengers and those seeing them off.

In the local café menu, you will find drinks and snacks classic to Argentina. Here you can have a cup of strong coffee, tea, or a soft drink. For a light snack, traditional Argentine sweets such as alfajores (cookies filled with dulce de leche) or fresh pastries like medialunas (local croissants) are perfect. If you wish to have a more substantial snack, look for sandwiches (sándwiches de miga) or hot pastries called empanadas with various fillings — an excellent way to get acquainted with local cuisine right at the airport.

The price range in the cafeteria is standard for airports in the country. Opening hours are usually synchronized with the flight schedule, so you will be able to have a snack before departure. Coffee with pastries is sufficient for a quick bite, and for a more substantial lunch, you can grab a few empanadas, which are convenient to eat on the go or take on board.

It is worth noting that specialized dietary meals, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options, are likely not to be found at La Rioja Airport. The assortment is oriented towards standard tastes. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is more reliable to bring snacks with you. You can always check the ingredients of dishes with the staff, but be prepared for a limited selection.

Travelling through La Rioja Airport, also known as Aeropuerto Capitán Vicente Almandos Almonacid (IRJ), will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. Here are a few useful tips that will help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary hassle at this regional airport in Argentina.

Arrival Time and Check-in. La Rioja Airport serves mainly domestic flights, so it is not as busy as capital hubs. We recommend arriving approximately 2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to calmly go through all procedures without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening area.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security procedures here are standard, but thanks to the low passenger flow, they usually pass more quickly. Remember the general rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage: containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous items are prohibited. Since the selection of shops and cafés in a small airport may be limited, take an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after screening) and a light snack.

Seat Selection and In-flight Comfort. With online check-in, you will have a better chance of choosing a comfortable seat. Want to admire views of the Andes foothills during takeoff or landing? Choose a window seat. If a quick exit from the plane or extra legroom is important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. La Rioja Airport is not a major transit hub, so direct transfers here are extremely rare. Most likely, your connection will be at a larger airport, for example, in Buenos Aires. With such an itinerary, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Customs control is only for passengers on international flights. If you are flying on a domestic flight, for example from the capital, you will only undergo a standard document check and security screening.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay? In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the check-in counter. They are obliged to provide you with current information on the flight status and your next steps. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline may offer drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to subsequently request compensation if provided for by the regulations.