Arauca Airport

Santiago Pérez Quiroz Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the endless plains of the Llanos Orientales, where nature itself sets the rhythm of life. This compact yet significant air terminal provides a vital link between the region and the capital as well as other cities, allowing travellers to bypass long hours of overland travel. For visitors, it becomes the starting point into the world of Colombian cowboys (Llaneros), incredible sunsets, and authentic culture that begins literally just beyond the terminal threshold.

The airport boasts an exceptionally convenient location: it is situated practically within the city limits, allowing you to reach central streets and hotels in just a few minutes. Thanks to the terminal's small size, all pre-flight procedures here are conducted as quickly as possible and without the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs. Passengers appreciate the friendliness of the staff and the availability of basic amenities, including air-conditioned waiting areas, which is particularly valuable in the region's hot tropical climate.

Below is the main contact information regarding the operation of Santiago Pérez Quiroz Airport in the city of Arauca. Please note that the airport is regional and managed by the government entity Aerocivil; therefore, most contacts lead to the central services of this agency.

• Official Website: Arauca Airport does not have a separate website. All official information is published on the portal of the management company, the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia — www.aerocivil.gov.co.
• Helpdesk Phone: For information, it is recommended to contact the national Aerocivil contact centre. Phone in Bogota: (+57) 601 5941300, toll-free line within Colombia: 01 8000 112373.
• Airport Address: Cra. 13 #27-1, Arauca, Arauca Department, Colombia.
• Email: For official inquiries, you can use the general e-mail of the Aerocivil citizen service: atencionalciudadano@aerocivil.gov.co.
• Social Media: Current news and updates can be tracked on official Aerocivil pages, for example on X (formerly Twitter) — @AerocivilCol.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues regarding lost or damaged luggage are handled exclusively by airline representatives. Please contact your carrier directly.
• Passenger Support: For questions related to tickets, flight check-in, or cancellations, you must contact your airline's support service.

Getting to Arauca Airport (AUC) from the city centre of Arauca is effortless, as it is located in immediate proximity. On average, the trip takes 10 to 15 minutes, making it one of the most accessible regional airports in Colombia in terms of transport logistics.

The most common and convenient method is taking a taxi. A car can be easily found anywhere in the city or ordered through local services. This is a fast and relatively inexpensive option, ideal for travellers with luggage. The trip will cost approximately 10,000 – 15,000 Colombian pesos. For added peace of mind, you can book a private transfer in advance, which will meet you at a designated location and take you directly to the terminal, although the cost will be higher.

For budget travellers, there is the option to use local public transport. Although there may not be dedicated airport shuttles, city bus routes and "colectivos" (shared taxis) pass nearby. This option requires a bit more planning time to locate the stop nearest to the airport, but it is the most economical — the fare is typically symbolic, amounting to just a few thousand pesos.

If you prefer independence in your movements, car rental is an excellent solution. This gives you the freedom not only for the trip to the airport but also for exploring the surroundings. Arauca Airport has a car park at the terminal where you can leave your car during your absence or for a short period to pick up or drop off passengers. Parking fees depend on the duration, so it is recommended to check rates on-site.

The Arauca Airport (AUC), also known as Santiago Pérez Quiroz Airport, is a small regional air hub serving the department of the same name in Colombia. Its structure is extremely simple and focused on passenger convenience: the airport consists of one passenger terminal that handles all domestic flights.

The terminal is a compact single-story building where all key zones are integrated. The airport layout is intuitive: after entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area with check-in counters. Departure and arrival zones are located in different parts of the same building, but they are easy to find via signage. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals, which significantly simplifies the entire travel process.

Check-in and security procedures at Arauca Airport usually proceed quickly due to the low passenger volume. Airline check-in counters are located near the terminal entrance. After receiving a boarding pass, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, which leads to a small departure lounge. On average, completing all formalities takes no more than 30-45 minutes, however, it is still recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure to avoid rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the few signs available. Its modest size is a major advantage for travellers, as it is practically impossible to get lost here. All main services — from check-in to the boarding gate — are within walking distance of each other. The simplicity and compactness make the stay at Arauca Airport as comfortable and predictable as possible.

The history of the airport in the city of Arauca, officially known as Santiago Pérez Quiroz Airport (Aeropuerto Santiago Pérez Quiroz), is inextricably linked to the development of the entire region. It was named after one of the pioneers of local aviation, symbolizing the importance of air transport for this part of Colombia. The airport began operations in the mid-20th century as a small airfield, the main task of which was to ensure the connection of the isolated department with Bogota and other major cities of the country.

A key stage in the airport's history was the discovery of large oil fields in the 1980s. This event turned Arauca into an important economic centre, and the airport into a strategic transport hub. The increased flow of passengers, engineers, workers, and cargo associated with the oil industry required a significant expansion of infrastructure and an increase in capacity. It was during this period that the airport acquired its modern significance.

In the 21st century, responding to growing demands for safety and comfort, Arauca Airport went through several stages of substantial modernization. Runway reconstruction works were carried out, a new, more spacious and modern passenger terminal was built, and navigation systems were improved. These updates allowed the airport to meet current civil aviation standards and significantly improve the quality of passenger service.

Although Arauca Airport does not break records for passenger traffic on a national scale, its main achievement is its role as a "gateway" to one of the country's key economic regions. For decades, it has remained a vital transport artery that ensures connectivity, supports business activity, and opens opportunities for travellers wishing to discover the unique culture and nature of the Llanos Orientales.

Arauca Airport (AUC) offers passengers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is equipped with everything most important for travellers setting off to explore the beauties of Colombia.

Dining and Shops. At the airport, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can drink coffee, have a sandwich, or purchase soft drinks. There are also kiosks with essential goods and local souvenirs so you can buy something to remember your trip to Arauca.

Waiting Areas and Amenities. A general waiting hall with sufficient seating is available for all passengers. Information regarding separate VIP lounges is not provided, so it is recommended to contact your airline representatives directly to clarify premium service availability. In the terminal, you can use free Wi-Fi, as well as find charging stations for mobile devices.

Financial and Other Services. ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed within the airport grounds. Currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange money exchange in advance. For emergencies, there is a first aid station.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers. The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Travellers with small children can check the availability of a mother and child room with airport staff. For assistance or escort, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance.

Business Services and Accommodation. There are no conference rooms or business centres in the terminal building. There are also no hotels on the airport grounds; however, travellers can easily find many accommodation options in the city of Arauca itself, which is a few minutes' drive away.

When planning a snack at Arauca Airport (AUC), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of establishments reflects this. You will not find a wide variety of restaurants or chain cafes in the terminal building, but you will be able to refresh yourself before departure in small local cafeterias.

The main and typically the only option for food is a few small counters or cafes located in the general hall before the security zone (landside). Here, travellers are offered a basic assortment: coffee, soft drinks, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and traditional Colombian snacks. This is an ideal place for a quick bite, but not for a full multi-course meal.

Be sure to try the local street food, which can often be found in such cafes. Look out for arepas (corn cakes with filling) and empanadas (fried pastries with meat or cheese) — this is a hearty and authentic way to get acquainted with the cuisine of Colombia. Prices here are generally moderate, although slightly higher than in the city of Arauca.

Regarding specialized diets, finding vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes in the airport is practically impossible. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are strongly advised to bring food with them. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open in the morning before the first departures and close after the last plane leaves.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Arauca is as comfortable as possible, use these simple tips. Since this is a small regional airport serving mainly domestic flights within Colombia, processes here usually move faster than in major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to proceed immediately to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, directly to security. When passing through security control, remember standard rules: liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag, and all electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, must be placed in a separate tray. Prepare these items in advance to speed up the process.

Choosing a seat on the plane depends on your preferences: a window seat will give you the opportunity to admire the views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat ensures more freedom of movement during the flight. If you have a planned transfer in another Colombian city, for example, in Bogota, ensure you have enough time between flights — allow at least 2-3 hours to account for possible delays and to calmly proceed to the next boarding gate.

Regarding customs control, it is only relevant for international flights. Arriving in Arauca on a domestic flight, you will not pass through customs. If you are flying from abroad, you will go through customs and immigration formalities at the first airport of arrival in the country. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative. They will provide current information on the flight status and explain your rights, including the possible provision of drinks, food, or accommodation depending on the length of the delay.

To save money, try to travel with hand luggage to avoid paying for checked baggage. Bring an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control, and a light snack, as the choice of cafes in a small airport may be limited. These simple steps will make your journey more predictable and pleasant.