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Santa Rosa Airport

About the Airport

Santa Rosa Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Santa Rosa Airport (IATA: RSA) is the main aerial gateway to the city of the same name and the picturesque La Pampa province in Argentina. As a key transport hub for the region, it serves as a starting point for travellers wishing to explore the unique gaucho culture and the natural expanses of the Argentine pampas. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a vital role in the development of local tourism and business connections, linking central Argentina with other parts of the country.

IATA Code RSA
ICAO Code SAZR
City Santa Rosa
Distance to centre approx. 3 km
Status Domestic
Annual passengers more than 49,000 (2019 data)
Popular Airlines Aerolíneas Argentinas.
Schedule Santa Rosa Airport Online Board

Despite its compact nature, Santa Rosa Airport offers travellers all basic amenities for a comfortable start or end to their journey. The terminal building houses check-in counters, a small waiting lounge, cafés, and car rental offices. The airport is managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, ensuring the maintenance of modern service standards. Its single runway, 2,300 metres in length, is capable of accommodating various types of aircraft operating domestic flights across the country.

Contact Information

Below you will find contact information for Santa Rosa Airport (RSA), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

  • Official Website: You can find all current information regarding flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website of the operator, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000: www.aa2000.com.ar/santarosa.
  • Information Desk Phone: For inquiries, you may call: (02954) 43-3027 or 42-2687. General Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 call centre: (+54 11) 5480 6111.
  • Airport Address: Ruta Nacional 35 Km 329, (L6300) Santa Rosa, La Pampa, Argentina.
  • Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
  • Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official pages of the operator AA2000 on social networks:
  • Lost and Found Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged during the flight, you should immediately contact your airline's representative at the airport. For items left within the terminal, please contact the Airport Security Police (PSA) office.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general support, please use the information desk numbers or the details provided on the airport's official website.

How to Get to the Airport

Santa Rosa Airport (RSA) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, making travel to or from Santa Rosa quick and affordable. Travellers have access to several transport options, varying in cost, speed, and comfort levels.

The most budget-friendly method is public transport. Although the city does not have a metro or direct rail link to the airport, local buses, known as colectivos, operate routes to the area. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious tourists travelling without heavy luggage. The cost of a bus ticket makes it the most accessible option—the journey will cost approximately 10–15 times less than a taxi. It is recommended to check the route number and schedule in advance. The trip from the city centre usually takes about 25–35 minutes.

A more convenient and faster alternative is a taxi or private transfer (remis). This is the most popular way to reach the airport, especially if you are travelling with luggage or children. A taxi ride will take just 10–15 minutes. In Argentina, "remises" are also widely used—these are chauffeured cars booked in advance that operate on a fixed fare, allowing you to avoid price surprises. The cost of a taxi or remis ride will be approximately 10–15 times higher than a bus ticket, but remains quite reasonable, particularly when travelling in a small group.

For those who value independence and plan to explore the surroundings, car rental is the optimal solution. Representatives of both local and international rental companies can be found at Santa Rosa Airport and in the city itself. Having your own transport gives you complete freedom of movement. While this is the most expensive option for a single trip to the airport, it can be advantageous if you intend to travel actively around the region. The airport provides parking where cars can be left for both short and long periods.

Terminals and Map

Santa Rosa Airport (RSA) is a small regional airport primarily serving domestic flights. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making it very convenient for passengers who dislike the hustle and bustle of major aviation hubs.

A key feature of the airport is the presence of a single terminal that serves both departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between terminals or long walks from the check-in area to the boarding gate. All main zones are located within one compact building.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, after which they enter a small waiting lounge with a boarding gate. The arrival area is located here as well, in the same building. After disembarking the aircraft, passengers proceed to the baggage claim hall and then to the airport exit.

Due to the small size of the airport and the limited number of flights, completing all pre-flight formalities usually takes minimum time. Flight check-in and security checks are conducted quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as per standard practice—1.5 to 2 hours before departure—to go through all procedures without haste.

Navigation at Santa Rosa Airport will not cause any difficulties even for an inexperienced traveller. All zones are located within walking distance of each other, and signs will help you orient yourself. Essentially, it is practically impossible to get lost in this airport, which is its significant advantage.

Airport History

The history of Santa Rosa Airport (RSA), the main air hub of La Pampa province, begins in 1940. It was then that it was inaugurated, marking an important step in the development of the region's transport infrastructure. Initially, the airport held not only civil but also military significance, which defined its further development and structure.

Since its foundation, the airport has gone through several key stages of modernisation. In the early decades, its main task was to ensure connectivity between the provincial capital and Buenos Aires, as well as other major cities in Argentina. Over time, as passenger traffic grew and aviation technologies developed, the airport's infrastructure was repeatedly updated. Works were carried out to improve the runway and modernise the terminal to enhance passenger comfort.

One interesting fact in the airport's history is its role as a gateway to the heart of the Argentine pampas. For many years, it has served not only tourists but also business travellers connected to the agricultural sector, which forms the backbone of the regional economy. Although Santa Rosa Airport may not boast world-scale records, its main achievement is decades of stable and reliable operation, ensuring the province's residents remain connected with the rest of the country.

Today, Santa Rosa Airport is a modern regional air hub that continues to play a strategic role in the life of the province. Regular flights connect Santa Rosa with the capital, and the terminal complex offers passengers all necessary services, combining its rich history with the requirements of modern aviation.

Services and Amenities

Santa Rosa Airport (RSA) is a small regional air hub that provides a basic set of services for a comfortable wait before your flight. Although the infrastructure here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, passengers will find everything necessary for a short stay.

Usually, a small café operates within the terminal building, where you can have coffee, sandwiches, or pastries. A small shop may also be available, selling souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. The selection of outlets and goods is generally limited, so for a full meal or shopping, it is better to allocate time in the city.

General halls are equipped for waiting for boarding. Specialised VIP lounges or business class lounges are typically absent in small airports. Passengers are provided with access to free Wi-Fi within the terminal area. The number of power outlets for charging devices may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

Financial services are represented by ATMs where cash can be withdrawn. Currency exchange points are rarely found in regional airports, so it is better to arrange money exchange in advance at one of the banks in the city. If necessary, first aid can be provided at the airport's medical point.

For travellers with small children, a nursing room equipped with a changing table may be provided. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered assistance with moving around the terminal, boarding, and disembarking. To access this, you must notify your airline in advance regarding the need for accompaniment.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options are located in the city of Santa Rosa, which can be easily reached by taxi. Specialised conference halls or business centres are also absent at the airport; for business meetings, it is better to utilise the infrastructure of city hotels.

Dining

Santa Rosa Airport (RSA) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited but allows for a comfortable snack before departure. Dining options are mainly concentrated in the general terminal hall, accessible to both departing passengers and those seeing them off (landside).

Typically, the airport has one or two café-bars offering a standard set of snacks and beverages. Here you can have coffee, tea, soft drinks, and a light bite. The opening hours of such establishments are usually aligned with the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane leaves.

For those wishing to try something from the local cuisine, it is worth paying attention to traditional Argentine pastries, such as medialunas (similar to croissants) or empanadas (small savoury pastries with filling). Sandwiches, toast, and various sweets can also often be found on the menu. This is an excellent option for a quick snack.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, or those on a gluten-free diet) should note that choices for them may be extremely limited. It is recommended to bring food with you or check for suitable dishes on-site. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the restaurants in the city of Santa Rosa before travelling to the airport, as there are no facilities provided for this in the terminal itself. Prices at the airport are generally moderate but slightly higher than in city cafés.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Santa Rosa Airport goes smoothly and without hassle, make use of our tips. This is a small regional airport, so everything happens quite quickly here, but preparation is never amiss.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within Argentina, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to calmly check in, drop off luggage, and pass pre-flight security without rushing. Although the airport is small, queues are possible during peak hours.

Check-in and Security: To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if travelling light, to the security screening area. When passing through security control, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronic devices from your hand luggage, as well as present your bag of liquids.

Seat Selection: Want to admire the endless expanses of the Argentine pampas from a bird's-eye view? Choose a window seat. If freedom of movement and the ability to disembark first upon arrival are more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules apply here as well: liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check hand luggage allowances on your airline's website, as they may vary.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage in Santa Rosa and check it in again. Typically, on domestic flights with the same airline, luggage is transferred automatically, but it is better to be safe.

Customs Control: Since Santa Rosa Airport mainly serves domestic flights, customs control is undergone by passengers arriving from abroad with a connection in another Argentine city. Be prepared to declare goods if their value exceeds established limits. Argentina has strict rules regarding the import of products of plant and animal origin.

Saving Time and Money: Book your transfer from the airport in advance or study the local transport schedule. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, and a light snack to avoid unnecessary spending while waiting for your flight.

Flight Delays: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative—they will provide the most up-to-date information. Keep your phone charger handy to stay connected. Ensure you have all essentials in your hand luggage: medication, documents, and necessities.

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