Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport

Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a welcoming gateway to "Bolivian Andalusia," a land of sunshine and vineyards. Located in a picturesque valley, this cozy airport immerses travelers in the relaxed atmosphere of the country's south from the very first minute. Thanks to its compact size and recent modernization, there is no hustle and bustle typical of capital hubs here, and the journey from the aircraft steps to the city centre takes just a few minutes, allowing you to immediately begin exploring colorful Tarija.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of this air harbour is its unique location: the airport is located practically within the city limits, just 3–4 kilometres from the main square, making transfers incredibly fast and affordable. Following a large-scale reconstruction, the terminal has received modern equipment, including a new air conditioning system and improved waiting areas, while maintaining clear navigation.

For aviation enthusiasts and lovers of beautiful views, the approach to landing in Tarija will be a distinct experience: the plane descends over picturesque hills and green valleys. The airport is equipped with modern navigation systems (ILS), which has minimized flight cancellations due to the morning fogs characteristic of the region, ensuring reliable connections with other cities in Bolivia all year round.

Below you will find contact information for Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport (TJA), which may be useful when planning your journey.

• Official Website: As a rule, regional airports in Bolivia do not have separate websites. The most up-to-date information on flight status and services is best checked on the website of the operating company (NAABOL - Navegación Aérea y Aeropuertos Bolivianos) or on the portals of airlines flying to Tarija.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +591 4 664-3135. Recommended for clarifying schedules, service operations, and general questions.
• Address: Avenida Víctor Paz Estenssoro, Tarija, Bolivia. The airport is located close to the city centre.
• Email: There is no official public e-mail for general inquiries. For communication, it is recommended to use the telephone or contact airline representatives directly.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact the office of the airline you flew with. Airport information staff can also provide general advice.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance on-site, please contact the information desks in the terminal or use the main airport inquiry phone number.

Getting to Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport (TJA) from the city centre of Tarija is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres south of the central area. The trip generally does not take much time, but the choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient method. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take just 10-15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an affordable option, but it is always recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure they have switched on the taximeter. For greater safety, you can use official radio taxi services, which can be called by phone. Some hotels also offer individual transfer arrangements for their guests.

Public Transport in Bolivia is represented mainly by minibuses ("micros") and shared taxis ("trufis"). This is the most budget-friendly way to travel. Although there may not be a direct route right to the terminal door, some lines pass in the immediate vicinity of the airport. This option is more suitable for travellers with light luggage who are ready for a small adventure. Check the numbers of the required routes with locals, as information may change. Keep in mind that "micros" can be crowded with little space for large luggage.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those planning not only to get to the airport but also to explore the picturesque surroundings of Tarija, such as the famous Wine Valley. Several local and international rental agencies operate in the city and directly at the airport. Having a car gives maximum freedom of movement. The road from the centre is simple and clear, but it is worth downloading an offline map in advance.

If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided on its territory. It is suitable for both short stops to drop off or pick up passengers, and for leaving the car for the duration of your trip. The number of spaces may be limited, so for long-term parking, it is better to arrive with time to spare.

Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport (TJA), serving the city of Tarija and its surroundings in Bolivia, is a small and compact aviation hub. Its main feature is the presence of only one terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation for all passengers. This single building serves both domestic and the few international flights, combining all necessary zones.

The structure of the terminal is extremely simple and intuitive. Since there is only one building, travellers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals or using shuttles. All functional zones — check-in counters, security screening area, departure lounge, and baggage claim area — are within walking distance of each other. The airport layout is linear: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general hall with airline check-in counters.

Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building. After passing check-in and pre-flight screening, passengers enter a small but cozy departure lounge. The arrival zone is located here as well, with a separate exit to the general hall where the baggage claim belt is situated. Thanks to such compactness, orienting yourself in the airport is very easy, even if you are here for the first time.

Completing all formalities usually does not take much time. Due to the low passenger flow, flight check-in and security screening proceed significantly faster than in large international airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before the departure of a domestic flight to go through all procedures without haste. The main advice for navigation is simple: follow the signs, but most likely you won't even need them — it is practically impossible to get lost here.

Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport (TJA) is not just a transport node, but an important part of the history of the city of Tarija and all of southern Bolivia. It received its name in honour of Captain Oriel Lea Plaza, a heroic pilot and native of Tarija who distinguished himself during the Chaco War. This name symbolizes the region's close connection with the history of Bolivian aviation.

Although the exact date of the airfield's founding is not documented as a single event, its history begins in the mid-20th century. Initially, it was a simple runway, but with the growth of the region's economic and strategic importance, the need for reliable air communication increased. The airport developed gradually, transforming from a modest airfield into a key air gateway connecting Tarija with the capital and other major cities of the country.

The most significant stage in the airport's recent history was the large-scale reconstruction and modernization completed in 2016-2017. As part of this project, the runway was completely renovated, a new, more spacious and modern passenger terminal was built, and advanced navigation equipment was installed, including the ILS (Instrument Landing System). This allowed for a significant increase in flight safety and regularity, which were previously often cancelled due to the thick fogs characteristic of this area.

An interesting fact: Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport is often called the "gateway to the wine valley of Bolivia." It is from here that tourists begin their journey through the region's famous scenic agricultural estates. Despite its modest size compared to international giants, the airport plays an indispensable role in the economy and tourism, ensuring stable and fast connections with the rest of the country.

Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport (TJA) is a small regional airport serving the city of Tarija and its vicinity in Bolivia. The terminal infrastructure is compact but provides passengers with all the basic services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight.

To satisfy hunger and buy gifts, the airport has several small cafes and snack bars where you can order light meals, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There are also kiosks selling local souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. The selection here is not as large as in international hubs, but sufficient for a short wait.

Passengers can access Wi-Fi, although the service may be paid or have time limits. There are power outlets in the waiting hall for charging electronic devices, but their number is limited. Regarding financial services, an ATM for withdrawing cash can usually be found in the terminal building. Currency exchange points are generally absent here, so it is recommended to exchange money in the city in advance. Dedicated VIP halls or business lounges are not provided at the airport.

To ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, a medical point operates at the airport to provide first aid. For travellers with reduced mobility, assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking, but this service must be booked in advance through the airline. There are also basic amenities for passengers with children, such as changing tables in the restrooms.

There are no hotels or specialized business centres and conference rooms on the airport territory. The nearest hotels and apartments are located in the city of Tarija, which can be reached by taxi in 10–15 minutes. All necessary business services can also be found there.

Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport (TJA) is a compact regional airport serving the city of Tarija. Dining options here correspond to its size: they are modest but quite sufficient for a snack before departure. The main establishments are concentrated in the general waiting hall, accessible before passing security control (landside).

In the main hall of the airport, there are several small cafes and snack bars. Here, passengers can find a standard set of offerings for travellers: freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, sandwiches, and various pastries. This is the best place for a proper snack. We strongly recommend trying local specialities if they are on the menu, for example, salteñas — traditional Bolivian baked pastries with a juicy filling. This is a great way to get acquainted with the cuisine of Bolivia right before departure.

After passing pre-flight screening (in the airside zone), the choice is generally more limited. Usually, a small kiosk operates there, where you can purchase bottled drinks and packaged snacks, such as chips or biscuits. Regarding special dietary requirements, separate vegan, gluten-free, or Halal menus are unlikely to be found in the small airport cafes. However, simple vegetarian options, like a cheese sandwich or vegetable pastries, may be available. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry their own snacks.

The opening hours of establishments at Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport depend directly on the flight schedule — they open shortly before the first departure and close after the last one leaves. Prices for food and drinks here are moderate by airport standards, but expectedly higher than in the city itself. Thus, coffee and pastries are ideal for a quick snack, while a sandwich or a traditional salteña in one of the cafes in the general hall is suitable for a more substantial lunch.

To ensure your journey through Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport in the city of Tarija goes smoothly and without stress, take advantage of our tips. For domestic flights within Bolivia, we recommend arriving at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient to complete all formalities. Although it is a small airport, during holidays and weekends, queues for check-in and screening can be longer. If possible, check in for your flight online to save time.

When packing carry-on luggage, adhere to standard international rules: liquids are allowed in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Ensure you do not have prohibited items, such as sharp instruments or flammable substances. To get the most out of the flight, choose a window seat. The mountain landscapes surrounding the Tarija valley are particularly beautiful from a bird's-eye view.

Capitan Oriel Lea Plaza Airport mainly serves domestic flights, so long international transits are extremely rare here. If you have a short connection, keep in mind that the terminal infrastructure is modest. Customs control for rare international passengers follows standard procedures — be ready to present your passport and, if necessary, declare imported goods.

In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative first to find out the latest information and your rights. Since the waiting area is small, take care of your leisure in advance: a book, downloaded movies, or a charged power bank will be very useful. To save money, book a taxi from the airport in advance through trusted apps or arrange a transfer with your hotel. This often works out cheaper than taking a car on the spot. Also, try not to exceed the luggage allowance to avoid expensive surcharges.