La Florida Airport

La Florida Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the "Pearl of the Pacific," as this vibrant region of Colombia is often called. Located on the picturesque El Morro Island, this air harbour welcomes guests with a fresh sea breeze and views of tropical vegetation even before they enter the terminal. The airport connects this remote port city with the central part of the country, offering travellers an immersion into the unique atmosphere of the Pacific coast from the very first minutes of arrival.

Airport Features and Highlights:

The main feature of La Florida Airport is its strategic location. It is situated on El Morro Island, which is considered the region's main tourist zone with beaches and hotels. This is incredibly convenient for holidaymakers: the journey from the aircraft steps to the ocean coast takes a matter of minutes, allowing your holiday to begin almost instantly.

Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, all pre-flight formalities here are completed quickly and without fuss. Unlike busy capital hubs, there are rarely long queues here, and navigation is intuitively clear. Passengers note that baggage claim and exiting to the city happen very promptly, which is especially valuable after a flight.

The scenic landing deserves special attention. As the aircraft descends over the waters of the Pacific Ocean and dense mangrove forests, a breathtaking view of the archipelago and the rugged coastline opens up. Many tourists specifically try to secure window seats to enjoy these landscapes and take spectacular photos even before touching down.

You can contact representatives of La Florida Airport (TCO) in several ways, however, it is worth noting that this is a small regional airport, and some communication channels may be limited. Here is the essential contact information:

• Official Website: At the moment, La Florida Airport does not have its own official website. General information about the country's airports can be found on the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil) portal.
• Information Desk Phone: There is no single public phone number for the airport. For information on flight status, booking, and other services, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Aeropuerto La Florida, Tumaco, Nariño Department, Colombia.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general passenger inquiries has not been published.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks. It is best to check up-to-date information on departures and arrivals on your airline's website.
• Lost Baggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should contact the baggage tracing service of the airline you travelled with directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Primary support regarding tickets, flight check-in, and special services is provided by the air carriers.

La Florida Airport (TCO) is located very close to the city of Tumaco in Colombia, so getting to or from the centre is quite simple. The journey usually takes from 15 to 25 minutes depending on the chosen transport and traffic situation. Travellers have several options available: taxis, public transport, or car rental.

Taxis and Moto-taxis are the most common and convenient way to get to the airport. A car or a motorcycle with a driver (moto-taxi) can easily be found anywhere in the city. This is the fastest option, delivering you right to the terminal doors. The cost of the trip is considered quite affordable, however, it is strongly recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance, as taximeters are rarely used.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. Typically, these are shared taxis (colectivos) or small local buses with routes passing near the airport. Although this method is significantly cheaper, it may be less comfortable, and the trip will take more time. The schedule for such transport is often imprecise, so allow extra time for the journey to avoid being late.

If you plan to explore the region on your own, you can consider car rental. It is best to book a car in advance online to guarantee availability upon arrival. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided. Given that the airport is small, parking spaces are usually within walking distance of the terminal.

La Florida Airport (TCO), serving the city of Tumaco, is a small regional airport, making navigation through it as simple and straightforward as possible. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which is used to handle all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures.

The terminal layout is very logical. The building is divided into several main zones: a small check-in hall with several counters, a security screening point, a departure lounge, and a baggage claim area for arriving passengers. All these zones are within walking distance of each other, so moving around the terminal will not cause any difficulties. There are no transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in a single building.

Thanks to the airport's compact size and relatively low passenger flow, all pre-flight formalities, such as flight check-in and security control, usually proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before the scheduled departure time to check in luggage and pass through screening without rushing.

The main advice for travellers departing from La Florida Airport is not to worry about complex navigation. It is practically impossible to get lost here. Signs will help you orient yourself, and if questions arise, you can always turn to airport staff who are ready to assist passengers.

The history of La Florida Airport (TCO) is inextricably linked with the development of the Pacific coast of Colombia. Its construction began in the 1940s, and the official opening took place in 1948. The main goal of creating the airport was to ensure reliable air connection with the port city of Tumaco, which until then had been practically isolated from the country's main economic centres. From the very beginning of its existence, the airport became a key factor contributing to the integration and growth of the region.

Throughout its history, the airport has undergone several important stages of modernisation. Initially, it was a simple runway with basic infrastructure. Significant improvements began in the second half of the 20th century, but one of the most large-scale reconstructions was carried out between 2010 and 2012. During these works, managed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil), the runway was renewed, navigation systems were upgraded, and the passenger terminal was expanded to meet modern safety standards.

Although La Florida Airport cannot boast of world-scale records, its main achievement is stable and reliable operation in complex climatic and geographical conditions. It has become a vital transport artery connecting one of the country's most remote regions with major cities like Cali and Bogotá. The airport plays a decisive role not only in transporting passengers but also in cargo logistics, supporting the local economy, particularly the export of seafood and agricultural products.

An interesting fact: thanks to its strategic location near the equator on the Pacific coast, the airport serves a unique destination attracting eco-tourists and researchers. It serves as a starting point for trips to mangrove forests, pristine beaches, and the marine Sanquianga National Park. Thus, this seemingly modest regional airport makes a significant contribution to unlocking the tourism potential of this amazing corner of Colombia.

La Florida Airport in Tumaco is a compact regional air hub in Colombia that provides passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have coffee and a bite to eat before flying. There are also kiosks offering local souvenirs, press, and essential goods.

General waiting halls are equipped for passengers. Although there are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport, you will be able to sit comfortably while waiting for your flight. Access to free Wi-Fi may be limited, so it is better to use mobile data for a stable internet connection. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is also small, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

Financial services at the airport are represented by ATMs. For currency exchange or other banking operations, it is better to visit bank branches in the city. There is a medical point within the terminal where first aid can be provided. Basic facilities are available for passengers with children and people with reduced mobility, including an accessible environment and staff assistance upon prior request to the airline.

There are no hotels or business centres within the airport building itself. The nearest hotels and conference rooms are located in the city, which can be easily reached by taxi. Travellers requiring such services should book accommodation or a venue for business meetings in the city in advance.

La Florida Airport (TCO) is a compact regional air hub, so the choice of establishments here is limited but sufficient for a snack before a flight. The main food outlets are concentrated in the general departure hall, before passing security control (the landside zone). After screening, there are practically no opportunities to eat, so plan your time accordingly.

Typically, one or two small cafes operate at the airport, where you can order standard Colombian snacks. Here you can drink a cup of aromatic local coffee, buy fresh pastries (for example, pan de bono or almojábanas), sandwiches, or traditional empanadas with meat or chicken. This is an ideal place for a quick bite if there is little time left before your flight.

Although there are no full-service restaurants with hot meals at the airport, you can still feel the flavour of the local cuisine for which Tumaco is famous. Look for snacks featuring Pacific Ocean seafood — you might manage to find a fish empanada. Be sure to try fresh juices (jugos naturales) made from exotic fruits such as lulo, passion fruit, or corozo — this is a calling card of the region.

Establishments at the airport operate according to the flight schedule, opening before the first departures and closing after the last ones. Prices here are moderate, slightly higher than in the city. Specialised dietary options (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal) are extremely difficult to find. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are recommended to bring food with them.

When planning a departure from La Florida Airport in the city of Tumaco, it is worth considering its small size. Despite the fact that it is not a major international hub, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time to calmly go through all procedures, especially on peak days. To save time, use online check-in, which most airlines offer, and prepare your passport or ID card (cédula) and boarding pass in advance.

Security screening at La Florida Airport usually proceeds faster than at capital airports. Nevertheless, standard rules apply here as well. Pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag. Knives, scissors, and other sharp objects must be checked in as luggage. Flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. Always check your airline's rules regarding the weight and dimensions of hand luggage to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Since La Florida is a small regional airport, the choice of cafes and shops in the waiting area may be limited. In case of a flight delay, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you. When choosing a seat on a plane flying from Tumaco, prefer a window seat — during take-off and landing, picturesque views of the Pacific coast of Colombia open up.

It is important to remember that La Florida Airport serves predominantly domestic flights, so there is no international customs control here. If you are flying abroad, you will go through customs and immigration formalities at a major international airport (for example, in Bogotá or Cali) from where your next flight departs. Allow ample time for the connection, especially if you have to collect and re-check your luggage.

To make your journey more economical, book flight tickets in advance and try to travel light to avoid paying for checked baggage. Transport from the airport to the city may be represented by a limited number of options, so it is worth researching them in advance or arranging a transfer to avoid inflated prices upon arrival.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative for information on further actions. Keep all necessary items, such as medicines, chargers, and documents, in your hand luggage. Remain calm and clarify with the airline whether you are entitled to meals or hotel accommodation depending on the duration of the delay.