Palonegro International Airport

Palonegro International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true engineering landmark situated on a narrow mountain ridge above picturesque canyons. This air gateway serves as the main entrance to the "City of Parks," Bucaramanga, and the entire Santander region, offering travellers breathtaking views even before the landing gear touches the runway. Thanks to its unique location in the municipality of Lebrija, the airport ensures convenient connections with key cities in Colombia and abroad, combining modern amenities with incredible natural beauty.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main highlight of Palonegro is its geographic location. The runway is built on a flattened mountain peak, creating the sensation of flying over an abyss immediately after takeoff. Due to strong winds and the mountainous terrain, the approach here is considered one of the most impressive in the country.

The airport terminal has undergone extensive modernisation and offers passengers a comfortable waiting experience. The building features cafes serving traditional Colombian coffee and snacks, souvenir shops, and relaxation zones. Despite its compact size, everything necessary is available here, including a VIP lounge and complimentary Wi-Fi.

The route from the airport to the city follows a winding serpentine road with panoramic views. Official taxis and buses are available for transfers, taking tourists to the centre of Bucaramanga in approximately half an hour, allowing you to enjoy the Andean landscapes on the way to your hotel.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Palonegro International Airport (BGA). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: www.aeropuertosdeoriente.co/bucaramanga
• Information Desk Phone: (+57) 607 691 00 90 (Management company Aeropuertos de Oriente S.A.S.)
• Airport Address: Vía a Palonegro, Lebrija, Santander, Colombia.
• Email: For general inquiries and feedback, you may use the management company's email: atencionalcliente@aeropuertosdeoriente.co
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages of the operator, Aeropuertos de Oriente, on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you should first contact your airline's representative. For items left behind in the airport terminal, please contact the information point or the main airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or consultation, you may use the information desk phone number or write to the email address provided above.

Palonegro International Airport (BGA) is located approximately 30 kilometres west of the centre of Bucaramanga, on a scenic plateau. The journey usually takes between 45 to 60 minutes, although travel time may increase due to traffic conditions. There are several ways to reach the airport, each with its own specific features.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. Specialised buses and minibuses (busetas) from companies such as Cotrander run regularly between the city and the airport. They depart from the main bus terminal of Bucaramanga (Terminal de Transportes) and make stops at key points in the city. The fare is low, but the trip may take a little longer due to stops. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers and those wishing to experience the local atmosphere.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest method. Official taxis can be found throughout the city or booked via mobile apps popular in Colombia. The trip will cost significantly more than the bus but ensures convenience, especially if you are travelling with large luggage. It is recommended to use official taxi services or agree on the price in advance to avoid misunderstandings. You can also book a transfer at your hotel, which guarantees a fixed price and safety.

Car Rental is suitable for those planning to travel extensively around the region and who value independence. There are representatives of both local and international rental companies at the airport and in Bucaramanga itself. The road to the airport is well-paved but can be winding. Please note that the driving style in the region may be unfamiliar. This option offers maximum freedom but requires confidence behind the wheel.

For those travelling to the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available at Palonegro Airport. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you are flying away for a few days.

Palonegro International Airport (BGA), serving Bucaramanga and its surroundings, is a modern and well-organised transport hub. Its key advantage is simplicity and clarity, as all passenger infrastructure is concentrated in a single terminal.

This single building serves both domestic and international flights, which significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to transfer between buildings. The terminal structure is logically divided into two levels:

• Ground Floor is the Arrivals Zone (Llegadas). This is where passengers arrive. Baggage claim belts, customs control counters for international flights, car rental offices, and the taxi rank are located here.
• First Floor is the Departures Zone (Salidas). On this level, you will find airline check-in counters, the security checkpoint, and passport control for those flying abroad. Immediately after these, access opens to the departure lounge and boarding gates.

In the departure zone, after passing security, passengers will find a small but sufficient range of services: a Duty Free shop, souvenir stalls, and several cafes where one can have a snack or drink coffee while waiting for a flight. ATMs, a medical point, and Wi-Fi are also available in the terminal.

Navigating Palonegro Airport is easy. Signs are in Spanish and English, and staff are always ready to help. The main advice is to simply follow the signs for "Salidas" (Departures) or "Llegadas" (Arrivals). It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Thanks to the terminal's compactness, all formalities usually proceed quite quickly. However, to avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance. For domestic flights, allow 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights, at least 2.5–3 hours. On public holidays and during peak hours, it is better to arrive with a little extra time to spare.

The history of Palonegro International Airport (BGA) begins in 1974, when it was officially opened to serve the city of Bucaramanga and the entire department of Santander. The need for a new airport arose because its predecessor, Gómez Niño, located within the city limits, ceased to meet modern safety requirements and could not cope with the growing passenger traffic. The new complex was built on a spacious plateau, providing ideal conditions for flights and opportunities for future expansion.

One of the most remarkable facts in the airport's history is its name. It is located on the land where the Battle of Palonegro took place in 1900, one of the key and most fierce battles during the Thousand Days' War in Colombia. Thus, the airport bears a name deeply rooted in national history, giving this transport hub a special symbolic significance.

Since its opening, the airport has continuously developed. A key stage was the large-scale modernisation carried out between 2014 and 2018. As part of the project, the passenger terminal was significantly expanded and refurbished, new jet bridges were installed, and the runway and navigation systems were improved. These investments allowed for a significant increase in capacity and an enhanced level of comfort for travellers.

Today, Palonegro Airport consistently ranks among the top ten busiest airports in Colombia by passenger traffic. It is an important transport hub that not only ensures connectivity between Bucaramanga and Bogotá, Medellín, and other major cities in the country but also serves international flights, playing a key role in the economic and tourism development of the region.

Palonegro International Airport (BGA) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a cup of famous Colombian coffee, grab a quick snack, or have a full lunch with local and international dishes. Shops selling souvenirs, press, books, and travel essentials are also in operation.

For those who wish to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If your device runs out of power, you can use the special charging stations for electronics. Comfort levels can be enhanced in the VIP lounge, where passengers are offered additional amenities, snacks, and beverages in a quiet atmosphere. Access may be granted depending on the airline, ticket class, or loyalty programmes.

It is easy to handle financial matters at Palonegro Airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of need, a medical point is available in the terminal to provide first aid. Basic facilities for passengers with children are also provided.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. If necessary, assistance services can be booked in advance through your airline.

There are no hotels directly inside the airport building; however, many accommodation options can be found in nearby cities such as Bucaramanga and Girón, which are easily accessible by taxi. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent in the terminal, so it is better to use city hotel services for business meetings.

At Palonegro International Airport (BGA), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in capital city airports, you certainly won't go hungry. Most establishments are concentrated in the main terminal area, accessible to both departing and meeting passengers (landside), but there are a few outlets in the secure area (airside) after passing security control.

For those looking for a quick bite before departure, local cafes are a perfect fit. Here you can enjoy a cup of the famous Colombian coffee, renowned for its rich taste and aroma. We recommend pairing your coffee with fresh pastries, such as pan de bono (cheese bread) or an empanada (filled pastry). This is a classic and quick way to get acquainted with the local cuisine.

If you have more time, you can visit one of the small restaurants offering more substantial meals. The menu often features traditional Colombian treats, such as arepas with cheese or meat, soups, or set lunches. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level. Most establishments operate from early morning until late evening, adjusting to the flight schedule.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding vegetarian or gluten-free dishes can be challenging, but you can always count on fresh juices, fruit salads, or simple rice with vegetables. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry a small supply of food with them. Overall, Palonegro Airport offers a basic but sufficient range of catering services to comfortably wait for your flight.

To ensure your journey through Palonegro International Airport is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, make use of our tips. This airport serves the city of Bucaramanga and its surroundings, and knowing a few nuances will make your trip easier.

Arrival Time and Check-in: We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This time is sufficient to calmly go through all procedures, even during peak hours. To save time, check in for your flight online and, if travelling without luggage, head straight to security control.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: Screening rules here are standard. Liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags. To avoid delays, check the list of prohibited items in advance. It is better to place famous Colombian coffee in checked luggage to avoid questions from the security service.

Seat Selection and Transfers: If you want to enjoy stunning views of the Santander mountain landscapes during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. An aisle seat is suitable for those who value legroom and want to be among the first to disembark. For passengers with connections, it is important to clarify whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage — this depends on the airline and the route.

Customs Control: When arriving in Colombia from another country, have your passport, boarding pass, and filled-out customs declaration (usually distributed on the plane) ready. Be prepared to answer standard questions about the purpose of your visit and the items you are bringing in.

Economy and Flight Delays: To save money, bring an empty bottle and fill it with water after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher than in the city. In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline's counter for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (meals, hotel). Remain calm and clarify your rights as a passenger.