Mariscal Sucre International Airport

Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) is not merely the gateway to the capital of Ecuador, but a true high-altitude hub situated 2,400 metres above sea level. Opened in 2013, it replaced the old airport located within the city limits and has become one of the most modern and safe airports in South America. Its location in the Tababela Valley, surrounded by the majestic Andes, offers travellers breathtaking views even before landing, making the start of the journey to Quito truly special.

Quito Airport regularly receives high ratings for service quality and infrastructure. It has been repeatedly recognised as the "Best Regional Airport in South America" by the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards. Furthermore, the airport has received awards as the "Cleanest Airport in South America," highlighting the commitment to creating a comfortable and pleasant environment for passengers. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for travellers: from free Wi-Fi, Duty-Free shops, and various cafes to ATMs and currency exchange points.

One of the key features of the airport is its focus on continuous development and improvement. The management is implementing ambitious plans to expand the terminal and increase capacity to meet the highest international standards. In addition to passenger transport, Mariscal Sucre is one of the most important cargo hubs in Latin America, playing a significant role in the economy of Ecuador. Modern infrastructure, a high level of service, and an impressive location make Quito Airport a convenient and memorable starting point for exploring the country.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Below you will find useful details for contacting airport services.

• Official Website: You can find flight schedules, service information, and news on the website www.aeropuertoquito.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +593 2 395 4200.
• Address: The airport is located at: Tababela S/N, Quito 170183, Ecuador.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use e-mail: info@quiport.com (Quiport is the airport operator company).
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on popular social networks such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, where it publishes current news.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have left items in the terminal building, contact the Lost and Found service (Objetos Perdidos y Encontrados) via the general airport phone number. In case of lost luggage during a flight, you should contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For most questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main information desk by phone.

Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) is located at a significant distance from the city centre of Quito, approximately 40 kilometres away, so it is advisable to plan your route in advance. Travel time can range from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions. You can reach the airport in several ways, suitable for different budgets and comfort levels.

Public Transport

This is the most budget-friendly method. There are two main options:

• Aeroservicios: Specialised shuttle buses that run between the airport and the former airport site in the city (now Bicentenario Park). This is a comfortable and safe option with air conditioning and space for luggage. The cost of the trip is significantly lower than a taxi. Buses run on a schedule, approximately every 30 minutes.
• City Buses: Ordinary city bus routes also connect the airport with various terminals in Quito. This is the cheapest option, but it may be inconvenient if you have a lot of luggage. The journey will take longer due to numerous stops and may require transfers.

Taxi and Transfer

A taxi is the fastest and most convenient way to get to the airport, especially if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage. It is recommended to use official taxis, which can be ordered at the counter in the arrivals hall, or to book a private transfer in advance. The fare is fixed and depends on the district of the city. Popular ride-hailing services such as Uber or Cabify also operate in Quito and offer competitive prices.

Car Rental

If you plan to actively travel around Ecuador, renting a car can be an excellent solution. Offices of all major international and local rental companies are located at Mariscal Sucre Airport. You can pick up the car immediately upon arrival or return it before departure. The road to the city is well-marked, but be prepared for heavy traffic during peak hours.

Airport Parking

For those travelling to the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, a large parking zone is provided. There are options for both short-term (a few hours) and long-term parking. The cost depends on the duration of the stay. The parking area is within walking distance of the terminal.

Mariscal Sucre International Airport, serving Quito, is a modern and well-organised complex. Unlike many major global airports, it consists of one large passenger terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation for travellers. This terminal serves both domestic and international flights.

The terminal building has a logical and intuitive layout. It is divided into two main zones: domestic and international departures. Departure halls are located on the upper floor, while arrival halls and the baggage claim area are on the lower floor. Since all operations are concentrated in one building, transfers between zones do not require the use of shuttles or long walks. Transit passengers transferring from an international flight to a domestic one will need to pass through passport and customs control.

Navigation through the airport is straightforward thanks to clear signage in Spanish and English. Check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates are located sequentially. To avoid haste, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. Although registration and screening procedures usually proceed quite quickly, queues are possible during peak hours.

For the convenience of passengers, information screens with up-to-date flight information are located throughout the terminal. Thanks to the thoughtful layout, the walk from the check-in counter to the furthest gate takes a moderate amount of time. Travellers flying from Quito for the first time need not worry: the terminal structure is designed to ensure the most comfortable and rapid completion of all pre-flight formalities.

The history of Mariscal Sucre International Airport is a tale of two generations of aviation complexes that succeeded one another. The first airport with the same name was opened in 1960 and was located right within the city limits of Quito. For decades, it was the main aviation hub of the capital of Ecuador; however, as the city grew, its location began to create difficulties. Surrounded by mountains and residential areas, with a rather short runway, it was considered one of the most challenging for piloting in South America. This served as the main reason for the construction of a new, safer, and more modern airport.

A new chapter in the aviation history of Quito began on 20 February 2013, when the modern Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) was grandly opened. It was built from scratch in the Tababela Valley, approximately 40 kilometres by road to the east of the city. The relocation was a unique operation: all flights and services were transferred from the old site to the new one literally overnight. The new airport was designed taking into account the highest safety standards, and its 4,100-metre runway allows for the unrestricted reception of even large long-haul liners, which was problematic under the high-altitude conditions of the old location.

Since its opening, the new airport has won numerous awards and has repeatedly received the title of "Best Airport in South America" according to the prestigious World Travel Awards. This serves as confirmation of the high level of service, thoughtful infrastructure, and comfort for passengers. The construction of the new airport became one of the key infrastructure projects for Ecuador in the 21st century, significantly increasing the tourism and business appeal of the capital.

Interesting fact: the territory of the old airport received a new life after its closure. Instead of construction, a huge urban "Bicentenario Park" (Parque Bicentenario) was created here, which became one of the largest green oases in Quito. And both airports, the old and the new, bear their name in honour of Marshal Antonio José de Sucre — a national hero and one of the key figures in the struggle for the independence of South American countries.

Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) offers passengers a full range of modern services to make waiting for a flight as productive and comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find a wide selection of establishments to suit every taste: from cosy coffee shops to restaurants offering both Ecuadorian and international cuisine. For those planning to shop, there are Duty Free stores, as well as souvenir shops where you can purchase famous Ecuadorian chocolate, coffee, and unique items from local artisans.

For a comfortable rest before departure, passengers can use the services of VIP lounges, which offer a private atmosphere, complimentary snacks, beverages, and press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will allow you to always stay connected. In case of necessity, you can contact the 24-hour medical centre for qualified assistance.

Financial services are represented by bank branches, currency exchange points, and conveniently located ATMs. For family travellers, special mother and child rooms are equipped, as well as play zones where young passengers can spend time happily. The airport is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: assistance is provided in moving around the terminal, and ramps and specially equipped restrooms are available.

For business travellers who need to work while waiting for a flight, business centres and conference rooms are provided. If you have a long layover or an early flight, you can easily find a suitable option for an overnight stay in one of several hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

At Mariscal Sucre International Airport, passengers will find a wide selection of establishments for a quick snack or a full meal. Cafes and restaurants are conveniently located both in the public area and in the departure zones after security control, offering options for every taste and budget.

The main food court is located on the second floor in the public zone (landside). This is an excellent place for those seeing off loved ones or arriving at the airport with time to spare. Here, popular international fast-food chains (McDonald's, Subway) are represented, as well as sit-down restaurants such as TGI Fridays, where you can have a leisurely dinner before checking in for your flight.

After passing security control in the departure zone (airside), the choice of establishments is also quite extensive. Various cafes, lounges, and eateries operate in the domestic and international departure lounges. Here you can find places for a quick bite, like Guacamole Grill, as well as venues for a more comfortable rest, such as Johnny Rockets or The Sports Bar UIO, to satisfy your hunger directly before boarding.

Do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with Ecuadorian cuisine. Visit one of the local coffee shops, for example, Sweet & Coffee. In addition to excellent local coffee, they serve traditional pastries — the famous empanadas de viento (fluffy cheese pastries) or humitas (corn tamales). Dishes inspired by the country's gastronomy can also be found in the menu of the Amazonia Republic restaurant, which will be a great conclusion to your journey.

Regarding special dietary requirements, vegetarian dishes, such as salads or sandwiches, are available in most establishments. However, the selection for vegans or people with a gluten-free diet may be limited, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff in advance. For travellers requiring Halal options, please inquire directly at the venues. Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city. The operating hours of most cafes and restaurants are adjusted to the flight schedule: many are open from early morning until late at night.

Travelling through Mariscal Sucre International Airport in the city of Quito can be a pleasant start or finish to your adventure in Ecuador. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use these tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This will give you enough time to calmly go through all procedures. To save time in queues, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to go straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening zone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security checkpoints at Quito Airport work efficiently, but be prepared in advance: keep your boarding pass and passport handy, and remove electronics and liquids from your bag. Remember the standard rules: liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other prohibited items are best checked into luggage immediately. It is also not recommended to export items that may be recognised as national heritage (archaeological finds, rare species of flora and fauna) without special permission.

Seat Selection on the Plane. When flying out of Quito or landing there, try to book a window seat. The airport is surrounded by the majestic Andes, and views of the mountain peaks, especially on a clear day, can be truly breathtaking. This is a small detail that will make your journey even more memorable.

For Transit Passengers. Mariscal Sucre is a convenient transit hub. If you have a long layover, numerous cafes, restaurants, shops, and comfortable waiting lounges are at your service. There is free Wi-Fi in the airport. Check with your airline whether you will need to collect your luggage and go through security screening again during the transfer.

Customs Control. Upon arrival in Ecuador, you may need to fill out a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid fines. Upon departure, be prepared that your luggage may be checked for prohibited export items, especially souvenirs made of rare wood species, coral, or exotic bird feathers.

Saving Time and Money. Besides online check-in, booking a transfer to or from the city in advance will help save time. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so take an empty reusable water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and light snacks.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information and clarification. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts and boarding passes — they may be needed to receive compensation through your travel insurance.