Silvio Pettirossi International Airport

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport is the main air gateway to Paraguay and the country's key transport hub. The airport is named after the famous Paraguayan aviator and aviation pioneer, giving it special historical significance. Located in the suburb of Luque, this compact yet cosy hub serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the vibrant culture of Asunción and the region's natural treasures. Travellers appreciate it for the absence of the hustle and bustle typical of giant airports, and for the friendly atmosphere that welcomes guests immediately upon landing.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Despite its modest size, Silvio Pettirossi Airport offers travellers comfortable service and intuitive navigation. One of the main advantages is the speed of formalities: thanks to the terminal's compactness, the journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit usually takes minimal time. For those who value comfort, renovated VIP lounges are available, where you can relax before your flight with Wi-Fi and refreshments.

In the departure and arrival zones, there are Duty Free shops where you can purchase not only perfumery and beverages but also unique local souvenirs, such as high-quality leather goods or traditional Paraguayan "ñandutí" lace. The airport is also famous for the opportunity to taste authentic Paraguayan coffee and desserts in cosy cafés, such as the renowned Havanna chain. Transport accessibility is ensured by 24-hour taxis and the option to rent a car directly at the terminal, making the start of your journey through Paraguay as convenient as possible.

To contact representatives of Silvio Pettirossi International Airport or obtain necessary information, please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.dinac.gov.py. The airport is managed by the National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics of Paraguay (DINAC), and all official information is published on their resource.
• Information Desk Phone: +595 21 688 2000. You can call this number to clarify information about flights, airport services, and receive other assistance.
• Address: Autopista Silvio Pettirossi, Luque, Paraguay. The airport is located in the city of Luque, which is part of the Asunción metropolitan area.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the address info@dinac.gov.py or the feedback form on the official website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official social media pages, such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should contact your airline's representative directly. Airport services do not handle the search for personal items left on board or lost during transport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance directly within the terminal building, please approach the information desks located in the arrival and departure halls.

You can get to Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) from the city centre of Asunción in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport is located relatively close to the centre, and a car journey usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, although this time may increase during peak hours.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The main route connecting the city to the airport is bus No. 30-A ("Aeropuerto"). The fare is very low, usually less than one US dollar. This is a great way to experience the local atmosphere, but be prepared that the trip may take over an hour due to numerous stops. Buses can be crowded, and there is not always enough space for large luggage. This method is best suited for travellers with light carry-on bags and plenty of time.

Taxis and Transfers offer a faster and more comfortable way to reach the terminal. A taxi ride from the city centre will cost on average 15–20 US dollars. You can use official taxi services or book a car through popular apps, where the price might be slightly lower. It is recommended to clarify the cost of the trip in advance or ensure the driver has switched on the meter. For maximum convenience, you can book a private transfer in advance—this is the most reliable, albeit more expensive option, which guarantees a fixed price.

If you value independence and plan to travel around Paraguay, car rental might be the ideal solution. Although this is one of the more expensive methods, it provides maximum freedom of movement. Many international and local rental companies have desks both in the city and at the airport itself. The road to the airport is well signposted. Silvio Pettirossi Airport has parking facilities where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. Rates depend on the duration of parking.

For planning more complex routes, it is worth noting that there are other airports in the region. The nearest one is in neighbouring Argentina — El Pucú Airport in Formosa (about 129 km). Other options include Alejo García Airport in Ciudad del Este, as well as the Argentine airports Camba Punta Airport in Corrientes and Posadas Airport in Posadas, which may offer alternative flights.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) is distinguished by a well-thought-out and compact structure, making it very convenient for travellers. All operations, including domestic and international flights, are handled in a single passenger terminal. This saves passengers from the need to move between different buildings and significantly simplifies the transfer process.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is divided into two main levels:

• Ground Floor — this is the Arrivals area. Located here are baggage claim belts, customs control counters, car rental offices, currency exchange points, and taxi stands.
• First Floor — the Departures area. Here you will find airline check-in counters, security screening points, passport control, and the main waiting hall with access to the gates.

Thanks to such logical organisation, navigating the airport poses no difficulties. After passing check-in and security control, passengers enter the secure area, which is divided into two wings or concourses: North and South. These zones house the boarding gates, Duty Free shops, cafés, souvenir stalls, and waiting lounges, including VIP lounges. Despite its relatively small size, the airport offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight.

To complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For international flights, the optimal time is 2-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. On average, check-in and screening take between 30 to 60 minutes; however, during peak hours or the tourist season, waiting times may increase. The compactness of the airport facilitates rapid procedures, but it is always better to have a time buffer.

For ease of navigation, clear signs in Spanish and English are installed throughout the terminal. If you have any questions, you can always approach airport staff or the central information desk located in the main hall. Because all services are under one roof, getting lost in Silvio Pettirossi Airport is virtually impossible, making it one of the most passenger-friendly airports in South America.

The history of the main airport of Paraguay, Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, begins in 1980. It was then that the modern terminal infrastructure was opened, replacing the old air station. Initially, the airport bore the name of President Alfredo Stroessner, but its name was changed following the change of political regime in the country.

A key moment in the airport's history was 1989, when it received its current name in honour of Silvio Pettirossi. This was not a random choice: Pettirossi is a national hero and one of the pioneers of Paraguayan aviation, who performed numerous daring flights in the early 20th century. Thus, the airport's name pays tribute to the birth of aviation in the country.

Since its opening, the airport in Asunción has become the country's main air gateway. It was designed to receive major international flights and for decades has served as the primary hub connecting Paraguay with South America and the rest of the world. The terminal building, constructed in the 80s, became a symbol of the modernisation of the country's transport system.

In subsequent years, the airport has undergone modernisation several times to meet growing safety and passenger comfort requirements. Works have been carried out to renovate the runway, expand waiting areas, and improve navigation equipment. Today, Silvio Pettirossi Airport continues its history as an important transport hub, preserving the memory of the great aviator whose name it proudly bears.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait. In the terminal, you will find several cafés and restaurants where you can have a snack or a full meal, enjoying local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there is a Duty Free shop with a wide range of perfumery, cosmetics, beverages, and souvenirs, as well as other retail outlets.

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, the airport features VIP lounges. They offer a secluded atmosphere, complimentary snacks and drinks, fresh newspapers, and comfortable places to rest or work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations will allow you to stay connected at all times.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport thanks to the presence of ATMs and currency exchange points. To ensure the safety and health of passengers, a 24-hour medical point is available, ready to provide first aid if necessary.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with small children. The terminal is also adapted for people with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped toilets, and an assistance service is provided, which is recommended to be booked in advance through your airline.

For business travellers, business centre services and meeting rooms may be available. Although there is no hotel directly within the airport building, several hotels of various levels are located in the immediate vicinity, many of which offer convenient transfers to the terminal.

At Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU), passengers will find several dining options located both in the public area and after passing security control. The selection of establishments allows for both a quick snack before departure and a leisurely lunch while waiting for a flight.

Most cafés and restaurants are concentrated in the public zone (landside) on the ground floor. This is the best place for a full lunch or dinner, especially if you have plenty of time before your flight. Here you can find, for example, the popular Havanna café, known for its coffee, desserts, and famous alfajores. Also in this zone, there are establishments offering hot meals, sandwiches, and salads. This is an ideal option for those seeing off or meeting passengers. It is important to note that most of these restaurants and cafés close in the evening hours and do not operate at night.

After passing passport control, in the secure departure zone (airside), the choice is more modest and focused on quick service. Located here are small coffee shops and counters where you can get beverages, fresh pastries, packaged sandwiches, and snacks. This is convenient if you want to take something with you on board the aircraft. Only vending machines with drinks and snacks may operate around the clock.

While at the airport, do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with local cuisine. Be sure to try chipa — a traditional Paraguayan bun made from corn or cassava flour with cheese, as well as juicy empanadas with various fillings. These popular and filling snacks can be found in most airport cafés, and it is a great way to experience the taste of the country right before departure.

Prices in airport establishments are predictably higher than the average in Asunción. Regarding special dietary needs, finding specialised vegan or gluten-free menus can be difficult. However, vegetarians will easily find pastries with cheese or vegetables, and fruit slices and fresh juices are always available for a light snack.

To ensure your journey through the main airport of Paraguay goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. Silvio Pettirossi International Airport is a modern and relatively quiet air gateway to Asunción, but proper preparation is never amiss.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours will be sufficient. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass all necessary controls without rushing.

Check-in and Security: To speed up the process, have your passport, visa (if required), and ticket ready. At Asunción airport, there are generally no huge queues, but during peak hours it is better to be prepared for a short wait. When passing through screening, remove laptops and other large gadgets, as well as your bag of liquids, from your carry-on luggage in advance.

Seat Selection: The classic advice works here too: choose a window seat for beautiful views during takeoff and landing, or an aisle seat to have more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours.

Carry-on Luggage: Remember international restrictions: liquids may be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check your airline's rules, as they may have additional restrictions on the weight and dimensions of carry-on luggage.

Transfer Passengers: If Asunción is your transit point, clarify at check-in at the first airport whether your luggage will be transferred automatically to the final destination. Inside the airport, follow the "Transit" (Tránsito/Conexiones) signs to proceed to the required boarding gate, bypassing baggage reclaim and the main check-in area.

Customs Control: Upon arrival in Paraguay, you will need to fill out a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid fines. When departing from the country, the procedure is simpler and usually limited to passport control.

Saving Time and Money: The easiest way to save time is to check in online and save your boarding pass on your phone. To avoid overpaying, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security control. Prices for food and beverages at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. The airport has cafés and free Wi-Fi to help pass the time.