Matacan Airport

Matacan Airport (SLM), located in the very heart of the historic Castile and León region, is not merely an air gateway to Salamanca, but a site with a rich history. Founded as a military base, it has evolved over time into an important civil hub serving both domestic and seasonal international flights. The airport has played a significant role in the development of aviation in Spain, becoming the home of a pilot training school. Following extensive modernization, Matacan today offers passengers modern infrastructure and comfortable conditions to begin their journey to one of the country's most beautiful cities.

Despite its modest size, Salamanca Airport offers passengers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. After reconstruction, a modern two-storey terminal appeared here with cosy waiting lounges where you can relax before your flight. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. For travellers with children, a mother and child room equipped with all necessities operates around the clock. If you require assistance, staff at the information desk on the ground floor are always ready to answer questions and help you find your way.

Below you will find contact information for Matacan Airport (SLM), which serves the city of Salamanca and its surroundings.

• Official Website: www.aena.es/es/salamanca.html. Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations is available on the site.
• Information Service Phone: (+34) 91 321 10 00. This is the unified information number for the Aena airport network, to which Salamanca Airport belongs.
• Airport Address: Ctra. N-501, km 15.5, 37181 Calvarrasa de Abajo, Salamanca, Spain.
• Email: For general questions and information, you can use the address slminfo@aena.es.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate social media pages. News and updates are published on the general accounts of the operator Aena (e.g., on X/Twitter @aena).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative office directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, contact the airport's lost and found service via email: slmobjetosperdidos@aena.es.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general support, use the main phone number or email listed above. Services for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) are recommended to be booked in advance through the airline or the airport website.

You can reach Matacan Airport (SLM), located approximately 20 km from the city centre of Salamanca, in several ways. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The journey from the city centre to the airport usually takes about 20-25 minutes by car.

Public Transport is the most economical option. There is a special bus route connecting Salamanca bus station with the airport. It is important to note that the schedule of these buses is often linked to flight arrival and departure times, so it may be irregular. Be sure to check the current schedule in advance on the airport or bus company website. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers without a large amount of luggage.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most convenient and fastest method. The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal exit. A trip to the centre of Salamanca will cost approximately 20-30 Euros. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling with family or have many belongings, you can book a transfer in advance. The driver will meet you with a sign in the arrivals hall and assist with luggage.

Car Rental is an ideal option for those planning to explore not only Salamanca but also the picturesque surroundings of the Castile and León region. Offices of several international and local rental companies are present at the airport. By booking a car online in advance, you can save time and money. Matacan Airport is conveniently located near major highways, making the start of your road trip across Spain as comfortable as possible.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal and offers spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.

If you have not found suitable flights directly to Salamanca, it is worth considering alternative airports. The nearest major international hub is Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, from where Salamanca can be easily reached by high-speed train or bus. Valladolid Airport, located approximately 100 km away, may also be a convenient option.

Matacan Airport (SLM), serving Salamanca and its surroundings, is distinguished by its compactness and convenience for passengers. It consists of a single passenger terminal, which completely eliminates confusion and the need for long transfers between buildings. Such a simple structure makes it ideal for travellers who value speed and a lack of hassle.

The terminal is a two-storey building where functional zones are logically distributed across levels. On the ground floor, you will find check-in counters, the arrival area with baggage reclaim belts, car rental offices, and a small cafe. On the first floor is the departure area, including the security checkpoint and the waiting lounge with boarding gates. Due to the small size, navigation is intuitive, and all signs are easy to read.

Thanks to the airport's compactness, completing all formalities takes a minimum amount of time. Flight check-in and security screening usually take no more than 20-30 minutes even during periods of increased load. However, as with any airport, it is recommended to arrive in advance, approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure, to go through all procedures without rushing.

Orienting yourself in Salamanca Airport is extremely simple. Since there is only one terminal, you do not have to worry about transfers between buildings or shuttle rides. The main recommendation: after entering the building, proceed to check-in (if required), and then simply go up to the first floor to pass through security control and wait for your flight. Getting lost here is practically impossible, making travel through SLM as comfortable as possible.

The history of Salamanca Airport, known as Matacan (SLM), dates back to the 1930s. It was founded as a military airfield and played a significant role during the Civil War in Spain, serving as one of the key bases for national aviation. Initially, its infrastructure was entirely focused on military needs, and for several decades it functioned exclusively in this capacity.

A turning point in the airport's development was 1974, when it was officially opened for civil commercial flights. This event marked the beginning of its dual life: a military base and a civil airport. Shortly thereafter, a passenger terminal was built, and the runway was modernized to accommodate larger aircraft. The opening of civil connections gave a powerful boost to the development of tourism and business ties in the Castile and León region.

Significant reconstruction and expansion of the airport were carried out in the run-up to 2002, when Salamanca was proclaimed the European Capital of Culture. The terminal, parking zones, and access roads were updated to cope with the expected increase in passenger traffic. The airport retains its dual status today: an important unit of the Spanish Air Force is still based here, as well as one of the leading pilot training schools.

Interesting fact: the name "Matacan" comes from the name of the locality where the airport is situated. Although today Matacan is not among the largest airports in Spain by traffic volume, its historical significance and role as an important transport hub for the province of Salamanca and the entire region are undeniable. It remains a vitally important facility connecting this historic city with the rest of the country and the world.

Matacan Airport (SLM), serving the ancient city of Salamanca in Spain, is a compact and convenient aviation hub offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the airport is well-equipped to ensure your journey begins without unnecessary hassle.

Restaurants, Shops, and Cafes. A cafeteria operates within the terminal building, where you can order light snacks, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There is also a small shop available to passengers selling newspapers, books, souvenirs, and travel essentials.

Wi-Fi and Charging Stations. Free and unlimited Wi-Fi from the Aena network is available throughout the airport. Electrical sockets are provided in the waiting hall and at boarding gates for charging mobile phones, tablets, and laptops.

Financial Services. ATMs are installed in the terminal where you can withdraw cash. Please note that currency exchange points are absent at the airport, so it is better to arrange money exchange in the city beforehand.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs. The airport provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility under the "Sin Barreras" service. Staff will assist with movement through the terminal, passing through controls, and boarding the aircraft. To guarantee assistance, it is recommended to book the service no later than 48 hours before departure.

Services for Families with Children. Changing tables are equipped in the airport restrooms, making the stay with infants more comfortable.

Other Services. There are no VIP lounges, hotels, or conference centres at Matacan Airport. The nearest hotels and business services can be found in the city of Salamanca, which is approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport. For first aid, please contact any airport staff member.

Salamanca Matacan Airport (SLM) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest, but it covers the basic needs of travellers. All food outlets are concentrated in the single passenger terminal, making navigation very simple.

The main place to eat is the cafeteria, located in the public zone of the airport (landside), before passing security control. This is a convenient option for those seeing someone off and those arriving at the airport early. Typically, after the security zone, in the departure lounge (airside), there is a small snack bar or vending machine where you can purchase beverages and packaged snacks.

For a quick but filling snack, bocadillos — traditional Spanish sandwiches on a crispy baguette — are perfect. We recommend trying the version with the local delicacy — Iberian ham (jamón ibérico) — to experience the region's cuisine. For a full lunch, the selection is limited, mainly consisting of ready-made meals, salads, and soups. Coffee, pastries, juices, and soft drinks are always available for a light snack.

Specialized vegetarian, vegan, or Halal menus are usually not available in the airport's establishments. However, suitable options can be found by choosing a vegetable salad, fruit, or asking for a cheese and vegetable sandwich prepared. The price range is typical for airports: the cost of food and drinks here is slightly higher than in the city. The cafe's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule and may be limited to morning and daytime flights.

Thus, if you plan to have a full meal, it is better to do so at one of the numerous restaurants in Salamanca before travelling to the airport. For a quick coffee or sandwich before departure, the local cafeterias are quite suitable.

To ensure your journey through Matacan Airport goes smoothly and without stress, take advantage of these tips. The airport serves the city of Salamanca and the surrounding area, and while it is not as large as the capital hubs of Spain, proper preparation will make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic or Schengen flights and 3 hours before international flights. Although queues here are usually shorter, it is better to have time in reserve. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and, if travelling light, proceed directly to security screening.

Security Control. At the security checkpoint, be ready to present your boarding pass and remove laptops and other large electronics from your bags. All liquids in carry-on luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre. Customs control for those arriving from non-EU countries follows the "green" and "red" channel system. If you have nothing to declare, proceed confidently through the green channel.

Seat Selection and Carry-on Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Carefully review your airline's rules regarding the weight and dimensions of carry-on luggage. Besides liquids, it is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin.

Connections and Flight Delays. Matacan Airport is not a major transfer hub, so most connections here are indirect. If you are planning a transfer yourself, allow at least 3-4 hours for it. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline's counter for information. Remember passenger rights in the EU (EC Regulation 261/2004): for long delays, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation.

Money-Saving Tips. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security. You can also bring non-liquid snacks from home to avoid spending on food at the airport. If you are getting to the airport by car, study parking options and book a space online in advance — this is often cheaper.