Capitolio Airport

Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes Airport, often referred to by locals by its old name "Capitolio," serves not just as a transport hub, but as the true "Golden Gate" to the Colombian Amazon. Upon landing here, travellers immediately feel a change in rhythm: instead of the bustle of megacities, they are greeted by humid tropical air and stunning views of the Andean foothills transitioning into the endless rainforest. This air harbour is a vital artery for the entire Caquetá department, connecting isolated natural beauties with the centre of the country.

Despite its modest size, Florencia Airport possesses a number of significant advantages that make travelling through it a pleasant experience:

• Scenic Approach: The flight to Florencia is an excursion in itself. During descent, a breathtaking panorama opens up from the window, where mountain ranges meet the dense forests of the Amazon and winding rivers.
• Strategic Location: The terminal is located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre, which saves tourists from long transfers and allows them to start exploring the region almost immediately after collecting their luggage.
• Operational Efficiency: Thanks to the compactness of the terminal and the absence of the huge passenger flow characteristic of capital hubs, check-in and security procedures here are fast and stress-free.
• Modern Infrastructure: Following a renovation, the airport received an updated terminal which, while preserving the cosiness of a regional station, ensures the necessary level of comfort and flight safety.

Below is the contact information for Capitolio Airport (Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes) in the city of Florencia. Please note that this is a regional airport, and some communication channels may be limited.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by the government organisation Aerocivil (Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia). Capitolio Airport does not have its own separate website. General information and news can be found on the official Aerocivil portal.
• Information Desk Phone: You can contact the airport by phone to clarify information about flights and services. It is recommended to verify the validity of the number before calling. Main number: +57 608 4358029.
• Airport Address: Aeropuerto Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes, Vía al aeropuerto, Florencia, Caquetá, Colombia.
• Email: The airport does not have a dedicated public email address. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own social media accounts. You can follow official aviation authority news on Aerocivil pages (e.g., on X/Twitter @AerocivilCol).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should contact your airline's representative directly. Airport services do not handle passenger luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to terminal operations, contact the information desk by phone. For all questions regarding tickets, schedule changes, and flight check-in, you must contact your airline directly.

Getting to Capitolio Airport (Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes Airport) from the city of Florencia in Colombia is quite simple, as it is located very close to the city centre. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods. On average, the trip from the central part of the city to the terminal takes just 10-15 minutes excluding traffic.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. A car can be found almost anywhere in the city or ordered by phone. This is a relatively inexpensive option that ensures comfort and quick delivery right to the terminal entrance. To ensure predictable costs, it is recommended to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as fixed rates are often used for airport trips in small cities. You can also use motorcycle taxis (mototaxi) — this is faster and cheaper, but suitable for travellers with light luggage.

Public Transport, represented mainly by city buses and shared taxis (colectivos), is the most budget-friendly option. Although there may not be a direct route to the terminal itself, many buses stop within walking distance of the airport. This method is suitable for economical tourists travelling light. It is best to check the schedule and exact routes with locals or drivers, as they may change.

If you value independence and plan to explore the scenic surroundings of the Caquetá region, car rental will be an excellent solution. You can rent a car at one of the local rental agencies. This will give you complete freedom of movement. Arriving at the airport in a rented or personal vehicle, you can use the parking facilities. The airport has a parking lot where you can leave your car for both short and long periods.

Capitolio Airport, officially known as Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes Airport (FLA), is characterised by a simple and clear structure. It consists of one passenger terminal that serves all domestic flights connecting Florencia with other cities in Colombia. Thanks to its compact size, navigating the airport is very easy, making it convenient for travellers.

The terminal building is designed to be maximally functional. The Departure and Arrival zones are located in close proximity to each other. Immediately after entering the terminal, you will see the check-in counters, followed by the security screening area. After passing control, passengers enter a small waiting hall before boarding. Navigation is intuitive, and finding your way will not be difficult even for those here for the first time.

One of the main features of the airport is the fast processing of all pre-flight formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing.

The single terminal of Capitolio Airport has everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight. There are airline counters, a waiting area, restrooms, and small points where you can buy beverages and light snacks. Do not expect a large variety of shops or restaurants, as the airport is primarily focused on the quick and efficient service of passengers on regional routes.

Thus, navigation in Florencia airport will not cause any difficulties. Since all services are located in one building, you will not have to worry about transfers between terminals or long searches for the right zone. It is a small but functional airport that ensures a convenient start and end to your journey through this region of Colombia.

The history of the airport in the city of Florencia, which today bears the name of Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes (FLA), began in the mid-20th century. Construction of the air harbour started in 1950, and the official opening took place on 28 April 1952. Initially, the airfield was named "Capitolio" after the area on which it was built, and it is by this name that it is known to many locals and in historical records.

From its earliest days, the airport became a vital strategic asset for the entire Caquetá department. It ensured reliable air connections with other regions of Colombia, which was critical for the development of this geographically isolated part of the country. Later, the airport was renamed in honour of Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes, a pilot and aviation pioneer native to Caquetá, in recognition of his contribution to the development of the region's airspace.

A crucial stage in the modern history of the airport was the large-scale modernisation carried out in the 2010s. During the reconstruction, a completely new passenger terminal and a modern control tower were built, and the runway was updated. These improvements allowed not only for increased capacity but also significantly improved the level of comfort and safety for passengers.

One interesting fact is that the airport in Florencia is often called the "Golden Gate of the Colombian Amazon" (Puerta de Oro de la Amazonía Colombiana). This nickname highlights its key role as a starting point for journeys deep into the unique tropical forests and for exploring the natural wealth of this amazing region.

Capitolio Airport (FLA) is a small regional aviation hub offering passengers a basic set of amenities. It is important to consider its compact size and understand that the infrastructure here is focused on meeting the most essential needs before departure, rather than on long stays.

Dining and shopping options here are modest. Typically, there is a small café or kiosk within the terminal territory where you can purchase beverages, coffee, and light snacks. There are no full-service restaurants or diverse shops in the airport, so it is better to make all necessary purchases in the city beforehand.

A general hall with seating is provided for waiting for flights. Regarding modern amenities, the availability of free Wi-Fi and charging stations for electronic devices is not guaranteed, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank. There are no specialised business lounges or VIP lounges at the airport.

Financial services are extremely limited. An ATM may be installed in the terminal, but there are no currency exchange points. Passengers are recommended to carry a sufficient amount of cash. Specialised services, such as a mother and child room or a full medical point, are not provided here.

Passengers with reduced mobility must contact their airline in advance to request assistance services. Airport staff will provide basic help with moving around the terminal, boarding, and disembarking. There are no hotels or business centres directly on the territory of Capitolio Airport — all accommodation and business service options are located in the city itself and its surroundings.

When planning a departure from Capitolio Airport (FLA), also known as Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes Airport, it is worth noting that this is a small regional airport. The choice of dining establishments here is more modest compared to large international hubs, but you will be able to have a snack or drink famous Colombian coffee before your flight.

All main food outlets are located in the main and only terminal, usually in the public zone before security control (landside). After screening (airside), the choice will likely be limited to vending machines with drinks and snacks, so it is better to take care of food in advance.

The main place for a snack serves as a small café or cafeteria. Here you can find dishes classic to Colombia, which are excellent for a quick lunch. Be sure to try:

• Arepas — corn cakes with various fillings, for example, with cheese or meat.
• Empanadas — fried pastries with meat, chicken, or potatoes.
• Colombian Coffee — take the last opportunity to enjoy the aromatic local coffee, famous throughout the world.

For those looking for a quick bite, fresh pastries, such as pan de bono (cheese bread), and a cup of coffee are ideal. If you are counting on a full lunch, the best solution would be to eat at one of the restaurants in the city of Florencia before travelling to the airport.

Regarding special dietary requirements, finding vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes here may be difficult. The assortment is generally standard. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport will be slightly higher than in the city, and opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule.

To ensure your journey through Capitolio Airport in Florencia goes as smoothly as possible, use these tips. The airport mainly serves domestic flights, which makes it fairly simple to navigate, but good preparation never hurts.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For domestic flights within Colombia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Although Capitolio Airport is small and queues here are usually shorter than in capital hubs, extra time will allow you to go through all formalities without rushing, especially during peak seasons.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in is online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24-48 hours before departure. This will allow you to save time and proceed immediately to baggage drop or security if you are flying with hand luggage only. Security control is standard; be prepared to present your boarding pass and documents, as well as remove electronics and liquids from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection: If you want to enjoy views of the scenic landscapes of the Caquetá region during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. Aisle seats are convenient if you need to get up during the flight. Airlines often offer seat selection for an additional fee during booking or online check-in.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules for most airlines permit the carriage of liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp, piercing, and cutting objects are prohibited. Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check the exact hand luggage and baggage allowances on your airline's website to avoid extra charges.

Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight, for example, in Bogotá, ensure there is enough time between flights (at least 1.5-2 hours for domestic connections). Clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be transferred automatically to the final destination or if you need to collect and re-check it at the transfer airport.

Customs Control: For flights within Colombia, there is no customs control as such. However, random baggage checks may be conducted for prohibited substances or agricultural produce. If you are arriving on an international flight to Colombia via another city and then flying to Florencia, you will go through all customs and immigration formalities at the first airport of arrival in the country.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security. Prices for food and beverages at airports are always higher, so having your own light snacks will be handy. The main way to save time is to check in for the flight online.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the check-in counter or boarding gate. They will provide current information and explain your rights to compensation, meals, or hotel accommodation depending on the length of the delay. Remain calm and keep a phone charger handy to stay connected.