Esmeraldas Airport

Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport is not merely a transit point, but a true gateway to Ecuador's "Green Province." Located on the picturesque coast in the Tachina district, this air terminal is the first to welcome travelers dreaming of the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and the vibrant colour of Afro-Ecuadorian culture. The compact and renovated terminal allows you to instantly switch from the rhythm of the metropolis to the relaxed atmosphere of a coastal holiday, as the famous beaches of Atacames, Same, and Tonsupa are just a stone's throw away. Your immersion into a tropical paradise begins here, where the roar of turbines is quickly replaced by the sound of the surf.

Airport Features and Advantages

Esmeraldas Airport underwent a major reconstruction in 2014, transforming from an outdated airfield into a modern transport hub. One of the main advantages is the new runway, 2,550 metres long, which allows for the reception of medium-haul liners and ensures a high level of flight safety, which was previously limited by the geographical features of the old location.

Passengers appreciate the airport for its compactness and convenience. Thanks to the low passenger traffic, check-in and security procedures are very quick, without the tiring queues typical of capital hubs. The terminal building is equipped with modern air conditioning systems, which is particularly pleasant in the hot tropical climate of the coast.

Another important feature is its strategic location. The airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the region's main tourist zones. The journey to popular resorts takes less than an hour, and the trip to the city centre of Esmeraldas across bridges over the river estuary offers travelers beautiful panoramic views from their very first minutes on the ground.

• Official Website: Like many regional airports in Ecuador, Esmeraldas Airport (Colonel Carlos Concha Torres) may not have a separate official website. It is recommended to check up-to-date flight information on airline websites, and general airport information on the portal of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of Ecuador (Dirección General de Aviación Civil).
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries, you can call: +593 6-272-3331. Please note that for calls from outside Ecuador, you must use the international code +593.
• Airport Address: Aeropuerto Coronel Carlos Concha Torres, Parroquia Tachina, Esmeraldas, Ecuador.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general passenger inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own official social media pages. News and updates may be published on the pages of airlines or Ecuadorian civil aviation authorities.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, you should contact your airline's representative directly at the airport. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions about airport operations, use the information desk phone number listed above. For all questions regarding your flight (schedule changes, check-in, carriage rules), you must contact the airline you are flying with directly.

You can get to Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport (ESM) from the city centre of Esmeraldas in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget and preferences. The fastest and most convenient option is a taxi. The trip takes an average of 10–20 minutes, although travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. You can hail a car on the street or order one through your hotel. It is recommended to agree on the fare in advance or ensure the driver uses a taximeter. The approximate price will be 5–10 US dollars. For greater comfort, especially if travelling with family or large luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance.

For budget-conscious travelers, there is an option to get to the airport by public transport. Local buses (busetas) run through the city, and some of their routes pass in the immediate vicinity of the terminal. This is the cheapest method; the fare usually does not exceed 1 dollar. However, it is worth noting that a bus ride will take more time, about 30–45 minutes, and may not be very comfortable with bulky luggage. There is no metro or rail link to the airport in Esmeraldas.

If you plan to explore the coast and picturesque surroundings, renting a car would be a good solution. Rental company counters can be found at the airport upon arrival, but to guarantee the availability of a suitable vehicle, it is better to book online in advance. This will give you the freedom to move around the entire province. For those arriving at the airport in a private or rented car, there is parking on the territory. You can leave your car here for a few hours or for a long period.

When planning your trip to the airport, note that the official currency of Ecuador is the US Dollar. It is always useful to carry small bills for paying taxi or bus fares. In the evening and at night, the safest and most reliable option is to call a taxi or use a pre-booked transfer.

Esmeraldas Airport (ESM), officially known as Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport, is a modern and compact aviation hub. All its operations are concentrated in a single passenger terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to its small area and thoughtful layout, the airport is very easy to navigate, making it convenient even for first-time visitors.

The structure of the terminal is intuitive. After entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the public area where check-in counters and airline representatives are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small waiting hall with several boarding gates. The arrival area is equally concise: after disembarking from the aircraft, passengers enter the baggage claim hall, and from there — into the general meeting area and the airport exit, where taxis and car rental counters await.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, the issue of transfers between them is not relevant. All procedures — from check-in to boarding the plane — take place within a single building. The check-in and security screening process usually takes significantly less time than in large international airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5-2 hours before departure, to complete all formalities without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are always ready to help and provide directions. Due to the compactness of the building, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key zones — check-in, security, the waiting lounge, and baggage claim — are within walking distance of each other.

The history of Esmeraldas Airport (ESM), officially known as Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport, is a story of modern transformation and development. The old airport, located within the city limits of Esmeraldas, ceased to meet safety requirements and growing passenger traffic over the years. Its location amidst urban development limited opportunities for runway expansion and infrastructure modernization.

A key moment in the history of the region's air gateway was the decision to build a completely new airport complex. In 2014, the grand opening of the new airport took place, located in the Tachina district on the opposite bank of the Esmeraldas River. This ambitious project was one of the most important infrastructure achievements for the entire province. Relocating the airport allowed not only for increased flight safety but also created a modern transport hub meeting international standards.

The modernization was comprehensive. The new airport received a significantly extended runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. A modern passenger terminal and a new control tower were built, and advanced navigation equipment was installed. These improvements radically improved the transport accessibility of the region and opened new perspectives for the development of tourism and the economy.

Today, Esmeraldas Airport is an important strategic facility for the northern coast of Ecuador. It ensures reliable air connections with the capital and other cities in the country, contributing to the growing popularity of local resorts such as Atacames and Mompiche. The story of its rebirth is a vivid example of how modern infrastructure can provide a powerful impulse for the development of an entire region.

Esmeraldas Airport, officially known as Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport (ESM), is a compact regional terminal offering passengers basic amenities for a comfortable wait before departure. Despite its small size, everything necessary for a short stay is available here.

Inside the terminal building, there are small cafes and snack bars where you can drink coffee, have a sandwich, or try local snacks. There are also shops selling souvenirs, essential goods, and press. The selection generally corresponds to the needs of passengers on domestic flights.

Seats are provided in the waiting hall for the convenience of travelers. There may not be specialized VIP lounges at the airport, so it is worth contacting your airline representatives directly for information on premium services. Wi-Fi is usually available in the terminal; it is best to check connection conditions (free or paid) on-site. Power outlets for charging mobile devices can be found in the waiting areas.

Regarding financial services, an ATM for cash withdrawals is typically installed at the airport. Currency exchange points are rare here, so it is recommended to arrange money exchange in the city in advance. For emergencies, a first aid station is provided in the terminal.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility — ramps and accessible restrooms are available. To request assistance or a wheelchair, you should notify your airline in advance. Conditions for passengers with children are best clarified with airport staff. Since there are no hotels on the airport grounds, travelers can choose a hotel in the nearby city of Esmeraldas. Specialized business centres and conference rooms are absent at the airport.

Esmeraldas Airport (ESM), serving the province in the northwest of Ecuador, is a small regional airport. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited and primarily oriented towards the basic needs of passengers awaiting their flight. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants or the presence of famous global chains.

Generally, all options for a snack are concentrated in the main and only terminal, in the public area before security control (landside). Usually, this consists of one or two small cafes or snack bars. After passing security (airside), the selection will likely be absent or reduced to vending machines with drinks and snacks.

In the menus of local cafes, you can find simple but filling dishes. This is a great opportunity to try something from the local cuisine in miniature. Look out for empanadas (fried or baked pastries with filling), sandwiches, pastries, and, of course, aromatic Ecuadorian coffee. For a quick snack, plantain chips (from green bananas) and various refreshing beverages, including fresh juices, are also suitable.

Unfortunately, finding specialized dishes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal — in such a small airport will be extremely difficult. It is recommended to bring suitable snacks with you. Prices in cafes are usually moderate and correspond to the local level, and their operating hours are closely tied to the flight schedule — establishments open a few hours before departure and close after the last plane departs. If you plan a full lunch or dinner, it is better to do so in the city of Esmeraldas before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Esmeraldas goes smoothly, use these tips. Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport serves predominantly domestic flights, making it quite convenient and easy to navigate.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Ecuador, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient to complete all procedures without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Security control here is standard, but be prepared to present liquids in containers up to 100 ml in a separate transparent bag.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that a window seat will allow you to enjoy views of the Pacific coast during takeoff or landing. An aisle seat will give more freedom of movement. Be sure to pack all valuables in your hand luggage: documents, money, electronics, and necessary medications. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids and sharp objects.

Transfers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance if you will need to collect your luggage and go through check-in again. For international flights, be prepared at customs control to answer standard questions about the purpose of your trip and declare goods exceeding duty-free limits.

Economy and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, you can bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security. Prices for food at the airport may be higher than in the city. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative first for up-to-date information and instructions. Monitor updates on information screens in the waiting lounge. Remain calm and clarify your rights to compensation (drinks, food) depending on the duration of the delay.