Apartado Airport

Welcome to the main air gateway of the vibrant Uraba region! Antonio Roldán Betancur Airport is not just a transport hub, but a vital connecting thread between the dynamic centre of the banana industry and the rest of the country. Surrounded by endless emerald-green plantations, this terminal immerses travellers in the atmosphere of tropical Colombia from the very first minute. Here, business activity blends harmoniously with the anticipation of adventure, opening the way to the unique nature of the Antioquia department.

Features and Benefits of the Airport

Despite its modest size, Apartadó Airport plays a critically important role in the life of the region and offers passengers a range of advantages that make the journey more pleasant.

• Scenic Approach. One of the main impressions for arrivals is the view from the window. The aircraft descends over vast banana plantations, creating a unique green carpet that stretches to the very horizon — the calling card of this agricultural land.
• Speed of Service. The compactness of the terminal works in the passengers' favour: there are practically no long queues for check-in or security here, which are typical of capital hubs. The path from the airport entrance to the boarding gate takes minimal time.
• Strategic Importance. The airport is a key access point to Colombia's "Banana Axis" (Eje Bananero), providing rapid connections for business travellers and tourists heading to the Caribbean coast of Antioquia.
• Climate Control and Comfort. Following recent modernisation under the management of the operator Airplan, the terminal has been equipped with modern air conditioning systems, which is particularly valuable in the hot and humid tropical climate of the Uraba region.

Below you will find current contact information to help you plan your trip and navigate Antonio Roldán Betancur Airport (APO), serving the city of Apartadó.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by Airplan S.A. All current information on flight status, services, and regulations can be found on the official airport page: airplan.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can contact the airport at: +57 (604) 823 8851.
• Airport Address: Vereda Vijagual, Carepa, Antioquia, Colombia. Please note that the airport is physically located in the neighbouring municipality of Carepa, approximately 15 km from the centre of Apartadó city.
• Email: For official inquiries, complaints, or suggestions (PQRS system), it is recommended to use the special contact form on the Airplan management company's website, as a direct email for general questions is not published.
• Social Media: To stay up to date with the latest news and operational changes, follow the official pages of the operator Airplan on social networks (Facebook, X, Instagram).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact your airline's representative counter at the airport. It is the air carrier that handles such issues.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions related to being in the terminal, you can approach the information desk or call the information service number listed above.

Getting to Antonio Roldán Betancur Airport (APO) from the city centre of Apartadó is not difficult, although it is located at a distance of approximately 15 kilometres away. Depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions, the trip will take from 20 to 35 minutes. The main ways to get to the terminal are by taxi, public transport, or rental car.

Taxis and Moto-taxis
This is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport. A taxi ride from the city centre will take about 20-25 minutes, and the estimated cost will be 20,000–30,000 Colombian pesos. This is a reliable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage. For those travelling light, there is a cheaper and more colourful alternative — the moto-taxi. However, it is worth remembering that this mode of transport is considered less safe. It is recommended to always agree on the fare with the driver in advance.

Public Transport
The most economical way is to use local buses or minibuses (colectivos). The trip will cost just a few thousand pesos. They run along the main streets of the city and can drop you off in the airport area. It is important to note that they do not have a strict schedule, and the cabin can be crowded during peak hours. This option is more suitable for experienced travellers familiar with the local transport system.

Car Rental and Parking
If you have rented a car to explore the Uraba region in Colombia, you can easily drive to the airport yourself. The road is simple and straightforward, and parking is available at the terminal where you can leave the vehicle. Renting a car gives you freedom of movement but may not be practical if you only need to get from the city to the airport.

Apartadó Airport (APO), officially known as Antonio Roldán Betancur Airport, is a small regional airport, so its structure is very simple and intuitive for travellers. It is designed to service domestic traffic and does not have the complex system typical of large international hubs.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to its compact size, all key zones are within walking distance of each other, making navigation extremely easy. You will not have to worry about transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in a single building.

The terminal layout is logical: upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, followed by a small departure lounge. The arrivals area is also located here and includes a baggage claim belt. All signs are simple and clear, so it is practically impossible to get lost.

Going through check-in and security procedures at Apartadó Airport usually takes significantly less time compared to major airports. As a rule, the entire process from entering the terminal to the waiting hall can be completed in 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before your flight's departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

The airport of Apartadó (APO), officially named Antonio Roldán Betancur Airport, is the main aerial artery for the entire Uraba region in the department of Antioquia. Its history is inextricably linked to the economic development of this important agricultural zone of Colombia. The airport was inaugurated on 17 March 1974, becoming a response to the growing logistical needs of a region experiencing an agrarian boom.

Initially, the air harbour was built to support the booming banana industry. It served as a vital link, ensuring the rapid delivery of perishable cargo, as well as specialists and workers, to the country's major economic centres. The airport received its current name in honour of Antonio Roldán Betancur, a former governor of the Antioquia department, whose contribution to the development of the region was thus immortalised.

A key stage in the modern history of the airport was its transfer to the management of a private operator in the 2000s, which launched a comprehensive modernisation. The most large-scale reconstruction and expansion works took place between 2016 and 2018. During this time, the passenger terminal was significantly renovated, the runway was improved, and the infrastructure was modernised, allowing for increased capacity and a higher level of comfort for travellers.

Today, Apartadó Airport is not only an important business hub but also a starting point for tourists wishing to explore the unique nature of the Uraba coast. Interesting fact: despite the growth of tourism, the majority of passenger traffic is still related to business trips, highlighting its key role in the economic life of the region. The airport's main achievement is decades of uninterrupted support for one of the most dynamic agricultural centres in South America.

Apartadó Airport (APO) is a compact regional air hub offering passengers key services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The airport infrastructure is focused on meeting the basic needs of travellers departing on domestic flights.

Before departure, you can have a snack in small cafes and eateries located in the terminal. They serve local dishes, light snacks, and drinks. There are also souvenir stalls and shops where you can purchase goods for the road.

Standard waiting lounges are equipped for passengers. The availability of separate VIP lounges should be checked with airline representatives, as they may not be available. To stay connected, make use of the wireless internet access (Wi-Fi) and mobile device charging stations located in the departure area.

ATMs are installed in the terminal building where you can withdraw cash. Currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to take care of exchanging money in the city in advance. In case of necessity, a first aid point operates at the airport.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with reduced mobility; however, to receive special assistance, such as a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms may be available.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can easily be found in the nearby city of Apartadó. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent at the airport.

The airport of Apartadó (APO), also known as Antonio Roldán Betancur Airport, is a small regional air terminal. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest and primarily designed for a quick snack before departure. There are no large food courts or a multitude of establishments here as in international hubs, but it is certainly possible to refresh yourself before a flight.

Passengers have access to several small cafes and kiosks, located mainly in the general waiting hall (before the security zone). The assortment usually includes basic snacks, pastries, and drinks. This is a great place to try classic Colombian street food: be sure to look out for arepas (corn cakes with cheese or other fillings) and empanadas (fried turnovers with meat or potatoes). Of course, here you can drink a cup of aromatic Colombian coffee or refresh yourself with natural juice (jugo natural).

Options for a full lunch or dinner of several courses at the airport are limited. Most outlets are focused on a "grab and go" format. Regarding dietary preferences, finding specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes here will be difficult. However, simple vegetarian options, such as cheese pastries, fruits, or coffee, are usually available. Prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than in the city but remain acceptable. The opening hours of establishments are tied to the flight schedule — they open in the morning before the first departures and close after the last aircraft leaves.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Apartadó goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, make use of our practical tips. This is a small regional airport, but knowing a few nuances will help save time and nerves.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Colombia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Although Apartadó Airport is not as busy as capital hubs, the extra time will allow you to go through all procedures calmly. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if available. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop-off or, if you are travelling light, to the security zone.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. Security rules here are standard. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Remember that power banks and other devices with lithium batteries can only be carried in hand luggage. Passing through control usually happens quickly, but it is better to be prepared in advance.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the picturesque landscapes of the Uraba region during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you want to be able to stand up without disturbing your neighbours. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport.

Customs Control. Customs control is only undergone by passengers arriving in Colombia on international flights. If you are flying to Apartadó from abroad with a connection, for example, in Bogotá or Medellín, you will go through customs and immigration formalities at the first airport of arrival in the country. There will be no additional customs control on the domestic flight to Apartadó.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact the airline representative for current information. Remain calm and clarify your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Infrastructure in small airports is limited, so it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, and a light snack with you.