Rio Grande Airport

Rio Grande Airport, officially named Gobernador Ramón Trejo Noel International Airport (IATA: RGA), is not just an airport, but a launchpad for a journey to the "End of the World". Located on the Atlantic coast of Argentina, it serves as the key aerial gateway to the northern part of the rugged and beautiful Tierra del Fuego. Despite its compact size, the airport plays a crucial role in Patagonia's transport system, opening the way to national parks, world-class fishing spots, and unique natural landscapes awaiting the most adventurous explorers.

One of the airport's main advantages is its compactness and simplicity. Here, you will not encounter long queues or exhausting walks, making pre-flight formalities quick and comfortable. The terminal primarily serves domestic flights, connecting Rio Grande with Buenos Aires and other key cities in Argentina, ensuring tourists have access to this remote yet incredibly picturesque region. Inside the terminal building, travellers will find basic amenities, including a small café and car rental desks, allowing you to head straight for adventures across Tierra del Fuego immediately upon arrival.

Below you will find the main contact information for Rio Grande Airport (Gobernador Ramón Trejo Noel Airport), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000. All current information regarding flights, services, and regulations can be found on the airport's page: www.aa2000.com.ar/rio-grande.
• Information Desk Phone: +54 (2964) 42-2302
• Airport Address: Ruta Nacional 3, V9420 Río Grande, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina.
• Email: For official enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 website, as a separate email address for the airport is not published.
• Social Media: News and updates are published on the Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 pages on major social networks (X, Facebook, Instagram).
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage or personal items within the terminal building, you must contact the Airport Security Police (PSA) office. If items were lost on board the aircraft, please contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, you can use the hotline numbers or feedback forms on the Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 website.

Getting to Gobernador Ramón Trejo Noel Airport from the city centre of Rio Grande is effortless, as it is located very close to the city limits. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods. The journey from the centre to the terminal usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes.

The most common and convenient method is a taxi or remis. Remises are a popular type of private transfer in Argentina that is booked in advance and has a fixed fare, making it a reliable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage. Given the short distance, the trip will cost approximately 5,000–8,000 Argentine pesos. Regular taxis are also available, but a remis often proves more predictable in terms of price. It is important to remember that prices may change, so it is recommended to confirm the cost before starting your journey.

For a more budget-friendly journey, you can consider public transport. Although there may not be a direct express bus to the airport, some city routes pass in its immediate vicinity. The fare is very low — about 500–700 Argentine pesos, making this the most economical option. However, it requires more time and planning, so it is recommended to check the current schedule and routes locally in advance.

If you plan to explore Tierra del Fuego by car, renting a vehicle would be an excellent solution. Many rental companies have offices both in the city and at the airport itself, allowing you to pick up a car in one location and return it in another. This provides maximum freedom of movement. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, there is a car park on the premises where you can leave the car for a short or long duration.

Rio Grande Airport (RGA) is a compact regional airport, so its structure is very simple and intuitive for travellers. There is one passenger terminal in operation here, which handles all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures.

Thanks to its small size, it is practically impossible to get lost in the airport. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the main hall where the check-in counters are located. The departure and arrival zones are in the same building and are clearly separated. The airport layout is linear: check-in counters, security checkpoint, and a small waiting area with a boarding gate. There are no transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in one place.

The departure zone includes several check-in counters and one security control point. The waiting lounge is small but functional. The arrival zone consists of a baggage claim belt and an exit to the main hall, where passengers are met. All key areas are within walking distance of each other, making movement around the airport quick and convenient.

Completing all formalities generally does not take much time. Flight check-in and security screening usually proceed quite quickly, especially outside peak hours. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing. For navigation, simply follow the standard signs — there are few of them, and they are clearly visible.

The history of Rio Grande Airport (RGA), officially known as Aeropuerto Internacional Gobernador Ramón Trejo Noel, is inextricably linked with the development of Tierra del Fuego. Since its inception, it has become a key transport hub that overcame the region's geographical isolation and ensured a reliable connection with the rest of Argentina. For many travellers and locals, the airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the northern part of the "End of the World".

Although the first runways appeared here for the needs of pioneer aviation, a turning point in the airport's history was the opening of the modern passenger terminal in 1971. This event allowed for the reception of larger aircraft and the establishment of regular air services, which gave a powerful impetus to the economic and social growth of the city. In 1981, the airport received international status, opening new opportunities for the region.

A significant stage of modernisation began in the late 1990s when the airport came under the management of Aeropuertos Argentina 2000. Under the concession, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out: the runway was renewed, navigation systems were modernised, and the terminal was expanded to improve passenger comfort. These improvements allowed the airport to meet modern international safety and service standards.

Among interesting facts is the airport's name. It was named in honour of Ramón Trejo Noel, the provincial governor who tragically died in a plane crash in 1984. Today, Rio Grande Airport not only serves passenger flights but also plays an important role in logistics, supporting the industrial enterprises of the special economic zone. Its location makes it one of the southernmost international airports in the world, which is a unique achievement in itself.

Rio Grande Airport (RGA), despite its modest size, offers passengers a set of essential services necessary for a comfortable journey. Conditions here are designed to ensure that waiting for a flight is peaceful and hassle-free.

Inside the terminal building, there is a café where you can order beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. If you are looking for souvenirs, there are several small shops offering locally produced goods and memorable gifts. Standard lounges are provided for waiting for departure.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to stay connected or work. There are also power outlets for charging electronic devices. ATMs are installed in the terminal for financial transactions. There are generally no currency exchange points here, so it is better to arrange currency exchange in advance.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with children — a nursing room is at their disposal. An accessible environment has also been created for travellers with reduced mobility, and staff are ready to provide necessary assistance. In case of need, you can contact the medical station for first aid.

There are no hotels directly at the airport, but the nearest hotels are located in the city of Rio Grande, which can be quickly reached by taxi. There are no specialised business centres or conference rooms provided in the terminal.

Rio Grande Airport (RGA) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but sufficient for a snack before departure. Options are mainly concentrated in the public area before security control.

Typically, there is one main café or snack bar operating in the main hall of the airport. Here, passengers can purchase coffee, tea, soft drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. This is the primary spot for both a quick bite and a more relaxed wait for a flight. There are no full-service restaurants with extensive menus at the airport, so for a substantial lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the establishments in the city of Rio Grande itself.

Despite the modest selection, you can find traditional treats of Argentina in the café, such as empanadas (stuffed pastries) or alfajores (shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche). This is a great opportunity to taste local flavours without leaving the airport. Prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than in the city.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, or specific Halal requirements) should note that specialised meals may not be available. The selection is usually limited to simple snacks, fruits, or beverages. If you have specific dietary needs, it is recommended to bring food with you. The cafeteria's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule — it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the last aircraft departs.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Rio Grande is as comfortable as possible, make use of our tips. This is a small but important transport hub in Tierra del Fuego, and proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For domestic flights within Argentina, try to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2–3 hours in advance. Although the airport is not very large, extra time will allow you to calmly go through check-in and security control.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on the airline's website. This way, you will only need to drop off your luggage. The screening procedure is standard: have your passport and boarding pass ready, and be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection on the Plane: If you want to enjoy stunning views of the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, choose a window seat. For those who value freedom of movement and want to be able to stretch their legs, an aisle seat would be more suitable.

Hand Luggage: Remember the rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag. It is forbidden to take sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Always keep documents, money, gadgets, and medicines with you.

Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. This is especially relevant when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one. Study the map of the transfer airport to orient yourself easily upon arrival.

Customs Control: When flying from another country, you will have to go through customs control. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, be sure to indicate them in the declaration to avoid problems. There is no customs control on domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money: To avoid paying for excess weight, travel light. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing through security. Booking a taxi or transfer online often costs less than finding a car upon arrival.

In Case of Flight Delay: Remain calm and follow updates on information boards or in the airline's app. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be entitled to drinks, food, or even a hotel at the carrier's expense. Keep a charger handy and something for entertainment, such as a book or a film on a tablet.