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San Luis Airport

About the Airport

San Luis Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

San Luis Airport, officially known as Brigadier Mayor César Raúl Ojeda Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Brigadier Mayor César Raúl Ojeda), is the main aerial gateway to the Argentine province of San Luis. This small yet strategically important airport serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the city of the same name and the region's picturesque landscapes. Despite its modest size, it plays a key role in the transport system of the country's central region, ensuring reliable and fast connections with the capital.

IATA Code LUQ
ICAO Code SAOU
City San Luis
Distance to Centre About 3–4 km.
Status Domestic.
Annual Passengers About 73,000 (based on 2019 data).
Popular Airlines The main scheduled carrier is Aerolineas Argentinas. Previously, flights were also operated by other local airlines, such as LADE and the now-defunct Sol Líneas Aéreas.
Schedule Online Departure Board "San Luis Airport"

The main advantage of San Luis Airport is its compact size and proximity to the city. Passengers do not have to spend much time navigating formalities or the terminal, making the journey more comfortable. The airport primarily handles flights connecting the province with Buenos Aires, which is vital for both tourism development and business travel. Inside the terminal building, travellers will find all the basic amenities necessary for waiting for their flight, making it an ideal choice for those who value simplicity and efficiency.

Contact Information

For the most current and accurate information, we strongly recommend checking the airport operator's official website. Below are the main contact details to help you get in touch with representatives of San Luis Airport.

  • Official Website: The airport is managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000. Up-to-date information on flights, services, and contacts can be found on their official website www.aa2000.com.ar.
  • Information Desk Phone: You can call the airport information service at: +54 266 442-2427.
  • Airport Address: Ruta Nacional 147, km 903.5, D5700 San Luis, Argentina.
  • Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is usually not published. It is recommended to use the contact forms on the operator's official website.
  • Social Media: News and updates are often published on the official social media pages of Aeropuertos Argentina 2000.
  • Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, contact the airport information desk.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: The primary support channel is the information desk phone and the information counters located within the terminal building.

How to Get to the Airport

San Luis Airport (IATA: LUQ) is located very close to the city centre of San Luis, making the journey there quick and convenient. On average, the trip from central districts to the terminal takes no more than 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Taxi and Transfer (Remis)
The easiest and most reliable way to get to the airport is to use a taxi or a `remis`. A Remis is a popular private car service in Argentina with fixed rates provided upon booking. This is the most comfortable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage. You can book a car by phone through one of the local companies or find them at designated stands in the city. The cost of the trip is moderate, but it is always better to confirm it in advance.

Public Transport
Direct bus connections between the city centre and the airport may be limited or non-existent. City buses (`colectivos`) operate throughout San Luis, but their routes are not always suitable for tourists heading to the airport with suitcases. It is recommended to study the route maps in advance; however, for most travellers, a taxi will be a much more practical choice. There is no metro or commuter train service in the city.

Car Rental and Parking
For those planning to explore the picturesque province of San Luis on their own, renting a car is an excellent solution. Several rental companies operate in the city. You can rent a car in the centre and arrange to return it at the airport before your flight, which is very convenient. The airport has parking where you can leave your vehicle for a short time to drop off or pick up passengers, or for the duration of your trip.

Terminals and Map

San Luis Airport (LUQ), also known as Brigadier Mayor César Raúl Ojeda Airport, is a small and compact aviation hub. It is equipped with one passenger terminal that handles all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its modest size, the airport features a simple and clear layout, making navigation extremely convenient for passengers.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the public area where the check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to security screening, followed by a small waiting area with boarding gates. The arrivals area is located in the same building and consists of a baggage claim hall and an exit to the city. Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take mere minutes, and it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The main feature of the terminal is its functionality and the absence of the hustle and bustle typical of large airports. All major procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place in one small space. This significantly reduces the time required for controls. As a rule, check-in and security screening take no more than 20-30 minutes, even accounting for potential small queues.

To complete all formalities comfortably, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before your flight departure. This time will be more than sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing. Given the airport's compactness, you won't have to walk far to the boarding gate—everything is within walking distance.

Airport History

San Luis Airport, officially known as Brigadier Mayor César Raúl Ojeda Airport (Aeropuerto Brigadier Mayor César Raúl Ojeda), is the main air harbour of San Luis province and plays a key role in its transport system. Its history reflects the stages of aviation development in the region and the drive towards modernization.

The grand opening of the airport took place on August 28, 1954. From the very beginning, it became an important hub connecting the province with the rest of Argentina, contributing to both the economic and tourism development of the region. In its first decades, the airport primarily served domestic flights, gradually increasing passenger traffic and cargo volumes.

A significant milestone in the airport's history was its transfer to the management of Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 in 1999. This event marked the beginning of a period of large-scale investment and modernization. The most extensive reconstruction was completed in 2011, resulting in the airport being almost completely rebuilt. A new passenger terminal of approximately 2,200 square metres was constructed, along with a modern control tower, an expanded parking lot, and an improved runway.

The process of infrastructure improvement did not stop there. In 2019, work was carried out to renew the runway surface and install a new lighting system, which improved flight safety and ensured uninterrupted airport operations at any time of day and under various weather conditions.

An interesting fact is related to the airport's name. It bears the name of Brigadier Mayor César Raúl Ojeda, a distinguished aviator born in San Luis who made a significant contribution to the development of the Argentine Air Force. This decision, made in 1994, was a tribute to the merits of this famous local figure and highlights the region's deep connection with the history of national aviation.

Services and Amenities

San Luis Airport (LUQ) offers its passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait. Despite its compact dimensions, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience and accessibility to essential services before departure or upon arrival.

There is a café within the airport where you can have a snack, coffee, or soft drinks. There is also a small shop selling souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. The selection of establishments is not extensive, but sufficient to pass the time while waiting for boarding.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. While specific VIP lounges may not be available, you can check for privileged zones with your airline representative. Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the terminal, and the waiting hall has power outlets for charging electronic devices.

ATMs are installed in the terminal building for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points may be absent or have limited operating hours, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance. In case of need, there is a medical station at the airport ready to provide first aid.

For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is provided. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered all necessary assistance: ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and staff assistance when moving through the terminal, checking in, and boarding.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of San Luis, which is a few minutes' drive away. Specialized conference rooms or business centres are absent in the terminal; for business meetings, it is better to use the infrastructure of city hotels.

Dining

San Luis Airport (LUQ) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. However, passengers can find everything necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight.

The main place to have a snack is the café-confectionery (confitería), located in the main hall of the terminal. It is situated in the public area (landside), so both departing passengers before security control and those meeting arrivals can use its services.

In the café menu, you will find classic Argentine snacks, ideal for a quick bite. We recommend trying traditional empanadas (pastries with various fillings) or sándwiches de miga (thin triangular sandwiches). You can also have coffee, tea, soft drinks, and order fresh pastries, such as medialunas (croissants). For a more substantial lunch, the selection may be limited, but sandwiches and a few empanadas will serve as a good alternative.

The establishment's operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: the café opens before departures and closes after the last plane has left. Prices correspond to the average level for airports—slightly higher than in the city, but quite acceptable.

Unfortunately, due to the airport's compactness, there are no specialized restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal meals. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to bring food with them. If you have time, the best solution would be to have a full meal at one of the restaurants in the city of San Luis before travelling to the airport.

Travel Tips

Travelling through the airport of San Luis city can be a pleasant start or end to your trip around Argentina. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use these tips to save time, money, and stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Since the airport serves domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive approximately 2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to complete all procedures without rushing. To avoid queues, use online check-in, which most airlines open 24–48 hours before the flight. This will allow you to proceed directly to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security zone.

Hand Luggage and Security: Before security control, check that there are no prohibited items in your hand luggage (for example, sharp objects or liquids in containers larger than 100 ml). All liquids must be packed in a single transparent bag. Prepare your ID and boarding pass in advance to speed up the process. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the airline, so it is useful to clarify details on their official website.

Seat Selection and Transfers: If the airline offers seat selection, consider your preferences. A window seat offers beautiful views, while an aisle seat gives freedom of movement around the cabin. If your itinerary involves a transfer, immediately upon arrival at the transit airport, find the number of your next boarding gate and the boarding time on the information board.

Economy and Comfort: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle—it can be filled at drinking fountains after security. It is also permitted to bring non-liquid snacks to avoid spending on food at the airport. Remember that a transfer booked in advance often costs less than a taxi taken on the spot.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed or cancelled, remain calm. Contact an airline representative to find out the flight status and your rights as a passenger—depending on the situation, you may be offered drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance can prove useful in such unforeseen circumstances.

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