El Plumerillo International Airport

Welcome to El Plumerillo International Airport, also known as Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport! This is not just a transport hub, but a true gateway to the famous vineyard region of Argentina. It is from here that the journey begins for many nature enthusiasts and adventurers heading to the majestic Andes and picturesque valleys. The airport is conveniently located and serves as a starting point for exploring the culture, gastronomy, and incredible landscapes of the Mendoza province.

El Plumerillo Airport is the fourth busiest in Argentina and offers passengers comfortable conditions while waiting for their flights. Here you will find cosy lounges, including a VIP area, shops, and cafes where you can spend time pleasantly before departure. Its convenient location, just 8 kilometres northeast of the city centre of Mendoza, allows for quick access to hotels via taxi or public transport.

The main asset of the airport is its strategic role in tourism development. It connects the region not only with major Argentine cities like Buenos Aires and Cordoba but also with international destinations in Brazil, Chile, and Panama. Thanks to this, travellers from all over the world can easily reach one of the most picturesque and welcoming corners of South America to enjoy its natural beauty and renowned local produce.

Below you will find essential contact information for Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport, also known as El Plumerillo (MDZ).

• Official Website: Current information on flights, services, and airport regulations can always be found on the official Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 network website: www.aa2000.com.ar/mendoza.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate enquiries, you can call: (+54 261) 520-6000.
• Airport Address: Ruta Nacional 40, Acceso Norte, Km 15, Las Heras, Mendoza, Argentina.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official pages of the airport operator, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost checked baggage, you must immediately contact your airline's Lost & Found service at the airport. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, please contact the Airport Security Police (PSA) office.
• Passenger Support Contacts: The main support channel is the information desk phone and the information counters located within the terminal.

El Plumerillo Airport (MDZ) is conveniently located just 8 kilometres northeast of the city centre of Mendoza, making the journey there quite quick and simple. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient ways to reach the terminal.

Public Transport: The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is by city bus. Route No. 680 (part of the Grupo 6 network) runs between the Mendoza bus terminal and the airport. The trip takes about 40-50 minutes depending on traffic. Please note that to pay for the fare, you will need a SUBE card, which is the unified system for public transport in many cities across Argentina. This card can be purchased and topped up at kiosks and special points throughout the city. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers without a large amount of luggage.

Taxis and Transfers: A more comfortable and faster option is a taxi or a pre-booked transfer. The journey from the city centre to the airport will take just 15-25 minutes. Official taxis (remises) can be found throughout the city or ordered by phone. Popular ride-hailing app services also operate in Mendoza. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but this is compensated by speed and convenience, especially if you are travelling with family or heavy suitcases.

Car Rental: If you plan to actively travel around the Mendoza province and explore the famous Argentine estates, renting a car is an ideal solution. Many major international and local rental companies have counters both at the airport and in the city centre. You can easily pick up a car in the city and return it at the airport before departure, ensuring maximum flexibility in your movements.

Airport Parking: For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is available at El Plumerillo. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is a convenient, though not the cheapest, option if you wish to leave a car for the duration of your absence.

El Plumerillo Airport (MDZ) in Mendoza is a modern and compact aviation hub that has undergone significant modernisation. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making navigation very convenient for passengers.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Since all services are under one roof, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings. The terminal layout is logical: arrivals and check-in areas are located on the ground floor, whilst the departures area with waiting lounges and boarding gates is on the first floor.

Arrivals Area: Located on the ground floor. Immediately after exiting customs control, passengers enter the general hall, where car rental counters, tourist information offices, and greeters are located. The baggage claim belt is also found here. Departures Area: Begins with check-in counters, which are also on the ground floor. After receiving a boarding pass and dropping off luggage, you must proceed to the first floor to pass through security control.

Check-in and screening procedures at El Plumerillo Airport usually proceed quite quickly due to its compact size. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee, and find your boarding gate.

Navigation Recommendations:

• Follow the signs — they are in Spanish and English and are very clear.
• Remember that check-in and arrivals are on the ground floor, whilst security screening and boarding gates are on the first floor.
• Since there is only one terminal, you will easily find all necessary services, from cafes to shops, in the sterile area after passing security control.

The history of the international airport of Mendoza, officially known as Governor Francisco Gabrielli Airport (MDZ), is closely intertwined with key moments in the history of Argentina. It is located on historic land where the El Plumerillo camp once stood. It was here in the early 19th century that General José de San Martín prepared his legendary Army of the Andes for the liberation campaign across the mountains, making this a landmark site for the entire country.

Although a military airbase has existed here since 1933, the history of the civilian airport begins after World War II. The passenger terminal was officially opened in 1949, giving a powerful impetus to the development of the region. From the very beginning, the airport functioned as a dual-purpose facility, serving both civilian flights and the IV Air Brigade of the Argentine Air Force, and this cooperation continues today.

With the growth of Mendoza's tourism appeal as a global agricultural capital, the airport has gone through several stages of modernisation. A key moment was the massive reconstruction in 2016. For several months, the airport was completely closed for works that included a full replacement of the runway, expansion and renovation of the passenger terminal, and the installation of modern navigation equipment. This transformed El Plumerillo into one of the most modern and comfortable airports in the country.

Today, El Plumerillo Airport is not just a transport hub, but the main aerial gateway to the Cuyo region and the majestic Andes. It plays a crucial role in the economy and tourism, annually welcoming hundreds of thousands of travellers from around the world eager to enjoy the famous vineyards, picturesque mountain landscapes, and the rich culture of Mendoza.

El Plumerillo Airport (MDZ) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait. In the terminal, you will find several cafes where you can have coffee and a snack, as well as restaurants offering more substantial meals. For those wishing to shop, there are stores, including Duty Free, where you can purchase souvenirs, local products, perfumes, and beverages.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport has VIP lounges offering a secluded atmosphere, snacks, and drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stations and sockets are provided in waiting areas for charging electronic devices.

ATMs and currency exchange points operate at Mendoza Airport, allowing passengers to settle financial matters immediately upon arrival or before departure. In case medical assistance is needed, a medical unit is available in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. Families with small children can use the nursing room to care for their little ones in a quiet environment.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many accommodation options to suit every taste and budget are located a few minutes' drive away. Basic business services may be available for business travellers, though specialised conference rooms are generally not provided within the terminal itself.

At El Plumerillo Airport (MDZ), travellers will find several excellent places to experience the gastronomy of Mendoza before flying. Although the airport is compact, it offers quality options for both a quick snack and a leisurely meal.

For those looking for a cup of excellent coffee and famous Argentine sweets, the ideal choice is the Havanna cafe. Its outlets can be found in both the public area and the departures hall. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a café con leche, fresh croissants (medialunas), and of course, try or buy the legendary alfajores — cookies filled with caramelised milk (dulce de leche) — as a souvenir.

If you have time for a full meal, head to the departures area. Here, at establishments like Aerobar, you can order more substantial dishes. The menu usually includes Argentine classics: hearty sandwiches (for example, with milanesa) and, of course, hot empanadas with various fillings. Travellers should check regarding Halal options, as ingredients vary. Additionally, do not miss the chance to sample the renowned Malbec varieties, the signature of the region, to fittingly conclude your journey through the vineyard capital of Argentina.

Regarding specialised dietary requirements, the selection may be limited. Vegetarians will find cheese and vegetable sandwiches or pastries, but strictly vegan or gluten-free dishes are harder to find. It is recommended to verify ingredients with staff. Prices at the airport are generally 20-30% higher than in the city. Opening hours are tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the last departure, ensuring you can always have a snack.

To ensure your journey through El Plumerillo Airport goes smoothly, we have gathered several useful tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and make the start or end of your trip to Mendoza as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in: El Plumerillo Airport (MDZ) is not a giant hub, but for your peace of mind, we recommend arriving 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. During peak season (for example, during the grape harvest) or on holidays, it is better to add a little extra time. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening area.

Security Control and Seat Selection: The screening procedure is standard, but queues can move slowly. Ensure that all liquids in your carry-on luggage are in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. When flying out of Mendoza, especially if your route heads south towards Patagonia, try to get a window seat on the left side of the aircraft — in clear weather, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Andes.

Carry-on and Local Souvenirs: Remember that bottles purchased in the city must be checked in with your luggage. You can only take liquids into the cabin that were purchased in Duty-Free shops after passing security control. This is an important rule for the main agricultural region of Argentina.

Customs Control and Transfers: For passengers arriving on international flights, it is necessary to complete a customs declaration. Be prepared that you may be asked to show your luggage. Bringing in fresh produce (fruits, vegetables, meat) is usually prohibited. If you have a transfer at El Plumerillo, especially from an international flight to a domestic one, check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check in again.

Saving Time and Money:

• Book a transfer from the airport to the city online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot.
• Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security screening.
• Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher, so it is better to have a snack before arriving.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time, as well as the possibility of receiving vouchers for food or drinks. The airport has several cafes and shops where you can spend time waiting. Stay calm and keep all documents close at hand.