Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport

Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport is not merely an air gateway to the city of Santa Rosa, but a convenient starting point for exploring the southern part of Ecuador. Located in the El Oro province, famous for its banana plantations and rich history, this modern airport serves as a vital transport hub. It effectively connects the south of the country with the capital, offering travellers access to the region's unique natural and cultural treasures, including the nearby cities of Machala and Huaquillas on the Peruvian border.

Despite its relatively small size, Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport (IATA: ETR) plays a key role in the transport system of southern Ecuador. Opened in 2010, it represents a modern and functional terminal focused on serving domestic flights. Its main advantage is its strategic location. The airport serves as a convenient alternative to the larger air terminal in Guayaquil for travellers heading to the El Oro province.

The airport infrastructure includes everything necessary for a comfortable wait: check-in counters, a departure lounge, and essential passenger services. The main flight destination is the capital, Quito, making it an important link for business travel and tourism. Thanks to the terminal's compactness, all pre-flight formalities are completed quickly here without unnecessary bustle, which is particularly appreciated by travellers who value their time.

Finding precise and up-to-date contact information for small regional airports, such as Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport (ETR), can sometimes be challenging. Below is the essential information and recommendations for contacting various services.

• Official Website: Santa Rosa Airport does not have a separate official website for passengers. General information about the country's airports can be found on the portal of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of Ecuador (Dirección General de Aviación Civil).
• Information Desk Phone: A direct public phone number for the airport information desk is not available in the public domain. For all questions related to schedules, tickets, and flight status, it is recommended to contact the airline directly.
• Address: Santa Rosa, provincia de El Oro, Ecuador. The airport is located near the Pan-American Highway, serving both the city of Santa Rosa and the nearby city of Machala.
• Email: A specialized email for passenger enquiries is not provided. Please use the official support channels of your airline for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active official pages on social networks. The most reliable sources of updates are the official accounts of the air carriers.
• Lost Baggage Information: For issues regarding lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, you must appeal exclusively to your airline's Lost & Found service. Airport staff do not handle these matters.
• Passenger Support Contacts: for assistance with any issues related to your journey, contact your airline via phone, mobile app, or speak to their representatives at the check-in counter in the terminal.

Getting to Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport from the city of Santa Rosa is quite simple, as it is located close to the centre. Travellers can choose from several convenient methods depending on their budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences.

Taxi and Transfer

A taxi ride is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport. The journey from the city centre usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes. Taxis can be found on the city streets or ordered by phone. The cost of the trip is low, but it is recommended to clarify the fare with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings. For maximum convenience, you can book a private transfer that will meet you directly at your hotel at the appointed time. This is especially suitable for travellers with large luggage or families with children.

Public Transport

For those looking for the most economical option, local buses (colectivos) are suitable. Although there may not be a direct route right to the terminal, some buses stop within walking distance of the airport. This method will require more time and may not be very convenient with bulky suitcases. The fare is minimal, but it is worth checking with locals or the driver in advance which specific route suits you.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively travel around the region, renting a car is an excellent solution. You can pick up a car at one of the rental points in the city and then return it at the airport before departure. The road to the airport is well-marked, and navigation will not cause difficulties. For those arriving in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available on the airport grounds, where you can leave a car for both short and long terms.

Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport (ETR), serving the city of Santa Rosa and the nearby administrative centre of Machala, is notable for its compactness and convenience for passengers. The airport complex consists of one passenger terminal, which handles domestic flights connecting the region with other parts of Ecuador, primarily the capital, Quito. Thanks to the small size of the building, the airport structure is intuitively understandable, and getting lost here is practically impossible.

The terminal layout is simple and functional. The ground floor typically houses the main passenger service areas. Immediately upon entering the building, travellers find themselves in the general hall where the airline check-in counters are located. After checking in luggage and receiving a boarding pass, passengers proceed to the pre-flight security screening area. The departure zone is equipped with waiting lounges, restrooms, and small retail points where one can purchase water or light snacks before the flight.

The arrival zone is also located in the main terminal building and has a separate exit. The baggage claim process is organised simply: the carousel is just a few steps from the aircraft exit or passenger drop-off area. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for complex transfers or shuttles between buildings — all movements are done on foot, and distances inside the airport are minimal.

Check-in and security procedures at Santa Rosa Airport generally proceed faster than in large international hubs due to the moderate passenger flow. However, to avoid unforeseen situations, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before the departure time. This will allow you to calmly pass through document checks and security services. Navigation inside the building is facilitated by clear signage, and airport staff are usually ready to help tourists with any orientation questions.

The history of Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport (ETR) in Santa Rosa is a story of modern development and strategic planning. Unlike many airports with a century of history, this air hub is relatively new but has already managed to become a key element of the transport infrastructure of southern Ecuador, particularly the El Oro province.

The airport was inaugurated on 12 January 2010. Its construction was driven by the need to replace the old General Manuel Serrano Airport in the neighbouring city of Machala. The previous air harbour was located within the city limits, which created safety risks and limited opportunities for expansion. The new airport in Santa Rosa was designed taking into account modern standards to accept larger aircraft and ensure a high level of flight safety.

The airport received its name in honour of Victor Larrea, an artillery colonel and a hero of the region. Since its opening, it has become the main air gateway for the entire El Oro province. The primary goals of its creation were stimulating tourism and, crucially for the region, supporting the export of agricultural products, primarily the famous Ecuadorian bananas. The airport plays a significant role in the logistics chains connecting local producers with world markets.

Since the airport is modern, its history does not yet include large-scale reconstructions or a multitude of historical events. Its main achievement is its very existence, which has become a symbol of the region's modernisation. It serves as a vivid example of how thoughtful investment in infrastructure can radically improve transport accessibility, increase economic potential, and open new opportunities for the development of an entire province.

Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport (ETR), despite its compact size, provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure convenience and accessibility for all categories of travellers.

For those wishing to have a snack or drink coffee, several small cafes and eateries operate within the airport. Here you can find light meals, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There are also a few shops selling souvenirs, local goods, and travel essentials.

Passengers can make use of free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Special zones with power outlets are provided for charging gadgets. The main waiting hall is equipped with a sufficient number of seats. Information regarding the availability of VIP lounges is recommended to be checked with your airline representatives, as their presence and access conditions may change.

ATMs are installed in the airport for cash withdrawals. However, a full-service currency exchange bureau may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance, before arriving at the airport. For emergencies, there is a first aid point in the terminal.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. For assistance, such as boarding the aircraft, you should contact your airline in advance. Families with small children can use the mother and child room for infant care.

There are no hotels on the airport territory itself; however, travellers can find numerous accommodation options in nearby cities such as Santa Rosa and Machala. Specialized business centres or conference halls are not provided at the airport.

At Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport (ETR), given its status as a small regional hub, the selection of dining establishments is quite modest. There are no extensive food courts or international chain restaurants typical of large hubs. The catering infrastructure is adapted to the current passenger flow and offers a basic set of services so travellers can refresh themselves before a flight.

The main dining spot is a cafe located in the general terminal area (landside), before passing through pre-flight security. This establishment offers a relaxed atmosphere where one can drink a cup of hot beverage or have a snack. In the "sterile" departure zone (airside), the choice is usually limited to a small kiosk or vending machines with drinks and snacks, so it is recommended to take care of meals before passing through security control.

The local cafe menu focuses on simple and filling dishes. It is worth trying Ecuadorian coffee here, which is famous for its quality, as well as fresh juices made from local fruits. Snacks often include sandwiches, pastries, and traditional empanadas (filled pastries). Since the airport serves the El Oro region, known for its banana plantations, you can often find chifles in the assortment — crispy plantain chips that are excellent for a quick snack.

Regarding dietary preferences, specialized menus (vegan, gluten-free, Halal) are generally not provided. Vegetarians may find pastries with cheese or simple salads; however, for vegans and people with strict dietary restrictions (including Halal), the choice may seem limited. In such cases, it is better to carry your own snacks (nuts, fruits) or clarify the ingredients of dishes with the staff.

Opening hours of the cafe are tied to the flight schedule: the establishment opens shortly before check-in begins for the first morning departure and closes after the last aircraft departs. The average bill here is moderate: a light breakfast or snack with a drink will cost approximately 5–10 USD.

For a full lunch or dinner, it is recommended to visit restaurants in the city of Santa Rosa or Machala before travelling to the airport, as the terminal is more suitable for a quick coffee break. If you have time before your flight, the cafe in the public zone will be the best place to wait for boarding in a comfortable setting.

Travelling through Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport in the city of Santa Rosa can be an easy and pleasant start or end to your adventure in Ecuador. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. Although this is a small airport and queues are usually shorter here than in large hubs, extra time will allow you to go through all procedures without haste. If possible, complete online check-in — this will save you time at the airline counters.

When passing through security control, be ready to present your boarding pass and documents. Standard rules for carrying hand luggage apply here as well: liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag, and all sharp and cutting objects should be checked in as luggage. Electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, will likely need to be removed from your bag for separate scanning.

When choosing a seat on the plane, if you are flying during the day, prefer a window seat — scenic views of the coastal plains and Andean foothills may open up to you. Passengers with connections should study the airport map in advance and clarify the time needed to transfer to the next gate. Ensure your luggage is checked through to the final destination to avoid the need to collect and re-check it during the connection.

Customs control upon entering the country requires special attention. Be sure to declare large sums of cash and goods exceeding established limits. Strict phytosanitary rules apply in Ecuador, so the import of fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and products of animal origin without appropriate permission is prohibited. This is done to protect the country's unique ecosystem.

To save time and money, book a transfer from the airport in advance or study available public transport options. Often, a taxi ordered through an official service or app costs less than one hailed on the spot. Also, take light snacks and an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control — this will help avoid unnecessary expenses while waiting for the flight.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. They will provide up-to-date information and explain your rights to receive food, drinks, or hotel accommodation, depending on the duration of the wait. Monitor updates on information screens in the departure hall and do not leave the transit zone without urgent necessity.