Tag: ecuador

Teniente Coronel Luis A. Mantilla International Airport, located in Tulcán, the capital city of Carchi Province in Ecuador, serves as a vital transportation hub in the region. Situated at a high elevation, the airport offers connectivity to domestic and international destinations, facilitating travel and trade for the local community.

In close proximity to the airport, approximately 3.18 nautical miles (5.9 km) northeast, lies the Ipiales VOR-DME (VHF omnidirectional range with distance measuring equipment) station, identified by the code IPI. This navigation aid, situated across the border in Colombia, provides crucial radio signals for precise aircraft positioning and navigation in the vicinity of the airport.

Additionally, the Tulcan non-directional beacon (NDB), identified as TLC, is located approximately 0.86 nautical miles (1.6 km) from the approach end of Runway 24. This NDB aids pilots in determining their location and approach paths during landing procedures, enhancing safety and accuracy.

Teniente Coronel Luis A. Mantilla International Airport’s surroundings are characterized by rising terrain in all quadrants, necessitating careful navigation and awareness by pilots operating in the area. These natural features contribute to the scenic landscape, with picturesque views of the elevated terrain visible from the airport and its vicinity.

Teniente Coronel Luis A. Mantilla International Airport plays a crucial role in connecting Tulcán with other destinations, supporting economic activities, tourism, and trade. It serves as a gateway for travelers, enabling them to access the Carchi Province and explore the beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions of the region.

General Ulpiano Paez Airport, identified by the IATA code SNC and the ICAO code SESA, is an airport that serves both public and military purposes, located in the coastal city of Salinas in the Santa Elena Province of Ecuador. Situated on a peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean, the city and airport enjoy a scenic coastal setting.

Within the airport premises, you can find the Salinas non-directional beacon (NDB) with the identification code SLS, as well as the VHF omnidirectional range with distance measuring equipment (VOR-DME) identified as SAV. These navigational aids contribute to efficient and safe air traffic control in the vicinity.

The airport’s history dates back to World War II when it was constructed in 1942. During that time, the United States Army, operating through the Air Force, utilized the airport. Their primary mission was to ensure the security and defense of the South American coast and the Panama Canal against potential Japanese air and naval attacks. The strategic location of the airport played a vital role in safeguarding these areas during the war. In the years following the war, the airfield transitioned to serve both military and civilian purposes, supporting various aviation activities.

In 2008, General Ulpiano Paez Airport facilitated charter flights operated by VIP Ecuador airline. This allowed for convenient air travel options for passengers seeking to visit or depart from Salinas and its surrounding areas. Recognizing the need for enhanced infrastructure, significant improvements were made in 2014. The airport underwent expansion, resulting in the construction of two asphalt runways, a spacious 1,800 square meter terminal building, a modern control tower, a technical block, a fire insurance hangar, a machine room, and designated safety zones.

Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport serves as a crucial airport for Esmeraldas, the capital city of the Esmeraldas Province in Ecuador. Located just 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) east of the city, across the Esmeraldas River in the parish of Tachina, the airport provides essential air transportation services to the Pacific coastal region.

The airport, originally established on March 25, 1940, originally named General Rivadeneira Airport, it was initially dedicated to José Enrique Rivadeneira, an inspector general of the Ecuadorian navy who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in 1939. 

As part of a broader plan to modernize Ecuador’s airports and attract more tourism and business to the country, Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport underwent significant renovation between 2012 and 2014. This renovation project aimed to modernize the airport infrastructure and enhance its capacity to accommodate the growing needs of passengers and air traffic. As part of the renovation, the airport received a brand-new terminal building, an extended runway, and various other improvements, and the people of Esmeraldas participated in a contest and voted on a new name for the airport. Colonel Carlos Concha Torres received the highest number of votes, and thus the airport was renamed in his honor.

The newly constructed passenger terminal boasts a capacity of 275 passengers and can handle up to 250,000 passengers annually. This modern facility provides a comfortable and efficient experience for travelers passing through Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport. Additionally, a new apron and air traffic control tower were built to enhance operational capabilities and ensure safe and smooth air traffic management. The runway was also extended by 200 meters (660 feet), enabling the accommodation of larger aircraft and facilitating improved connectivity for the region.

Santa Rosa International Airport, also known as Coronel Artilleria Victor Larrea Airport, serves as the primary airport for Machala, the capital city of El Oro Province in Ecuador. Situated approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) to the south, in the town of Santa Rosa, this airport replaced the previously closed General Manuel Serrano Airport in Machala. Its strategic location allows it to cater to international flights, particularly from neighboring Peru.

The construction of Santa Rosa International Airport was carried out by the Ecuadorean Army Corps of Engineers under the supervision and guidance of Ecuador’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation. This monumental engineering project was led by Major Engineer Henry Miranda and Major Engineer J.C. Checa, who oversaw the entire process.

The development of an airport of such magnitude required meticulous planning, coordination, and execution. Major Engineer Henry Miranda and Major Engineer J.C. Checa played instrumental roles in ensuring that all aspects of the construction adhered to the highest standards of engineering and aviation regulations. Their expertise and leadership were essential in managing the complexities involved in building an airport capable of accommodating international air traffic.

Santa Rosa International Airport stands as a testament to the dedication and skill of the Ecuadorean Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the collaboration between various government agencies. The airport’s strategic location and modern infrastructure provide a gateway for international travelers, fostering connectivity between Ecuador and Peru.

Mariscal Lamar International Airport, known as Aeropuerto Internacional Mariscal Lamar in Spanish, is a significant airport located at a high elevation, serving the city of Cuenca, the capital of the Azuay Province in Ecuador. The airport derives its name from José de la Mar, a renowned Peruvian military leader and politician who hailed from Cuenca.

Since its inauguration on April 23, 1941, Mariscal Lamar International Airport has played a vital role in connecting Cuenca to various domestic destinations. As one of the busiest airports in Ecuador, it serves as a critical transportation hub for the region, facilitating domestic flights to major cities such as Quito and Guayaquil.

The airport has undergone continuous improvements over the years, with the full operationalization of its Instrument Landing System (ILS) achieved in 2002. This system enhances navigational capabilities, allowing for safer and more precise approaches and landings. The Cuenca non-directional beacon (Ident: CUR) is located approximately 2.2 nautical miles (4.1 km) from the approach threshold of Runway 23, while the Cuenca VOR-DME (Ident: CUV) is situated about 4.7 nautical miles (8.7 km) from the same runway.

Mariscal Lamar International Airport is situated within a high-elevation basin in the Ecuadorian Andes, surrounded by mountainous terrain in all directions. While the scenic location adds to the charm of the airport, it presents challenges due to the limited runway length, particularly for larger aircraft operating at high altitudes. Consequently, there have been instances of accidents involving planes running off the end of the runway, prompting the restriction of flights during wet weather conditions.

Despite these limitations, Mariscal Lamar International Airport continues to serve as a crucial gateway for travelers visiting Cuenca and the Azuay Province. Efforts are underway to address the challenges associated with its location, with ongoing discussions and plans for potential runway extensions or the construction of a new airport outside the city limits.

San Cristóbal Galapagos Airport is a significant airport situated on the island of San Cristóbal, within the renowned Galápagos Islands of Ecuador. Positioned on the southwestern end of the island, the airport is surrounded by picturesque rising terrain in the northeast direction. Notably, the runways’ approaches offer breathtaking views over the vast expanse of the ocean.

Within the airport premises, you can find essential navigational aids such as the San Cristobal non-directional beacon (NDB) with the identification code SCR and the VHF omnidirectional range with distance measuring equipment (VOR-DME) identified as SCV. These aids play a crucial role in facilitating precise navigation for aircraft operating in the vicinity of the airport.

In June 2019, the airport’s history took a controversial turn when the Ecuadorian government granted permission for the United States military to utilize the airfield as a base. This decision provoked a range of reactions from the public and various interest groups. The inclusion of a military presence at the airport raised concerns about the potential impact on the delicate ecological balance and unique biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands. Many individuals and organizations expressed their opposition, highlighting the need to preserve the natural beauty and exceptional environmental heritage of the Galápagos.

San Cristóbal Galapagos Airport continues to serve as a gateway to the fascinating Galápagos Islands, enabling tourists and researchers to access this extraordinary destination. Efforts to manage the airport’s operations and address the concerns raised by the military presence are ongoing, aiming to safeguard the unique biodiversity and environmental integrity for which the Galápagos Islands are renowned.

Seymour Galapagos Ecological Airport, known as Aeropuerto Ecológico Galápagos Seymour in Spanish, serves as a crucial airport for Baltra Island, one of the remarkable Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. The airport’s name is derived from the island’s former name, South Seymour Island.

During World War II, the airport, then known as Seymour Island Airfield, played a significant role as a strategic base for the United States Army Air Forces’ Sixth Air Force. It served as a defense post, safeguarding the South American coastline and the Panama Canal against potential threats from Japanese submarines.

In December 2012, Seymour Galapagos Ecological Airport achieved a memorable milestone by becoming the world’s first “green” airport. This designation recognized the airport’s commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological conservation.

The airport’s new terminal represents a remarkable feat of engineering and eco-friendly design. The terminal building, spanning over 6,000 square meters, was constructed using recycled steel tubes sourced from former oil drilling operations in the Amazon region. The innovative use of these materials not only reduces waste but also contributes to the preservation of natural resources.

Furthermore, the airport complex incorporates clean and renewable technologies as part of its commitment to sustainable practices. Solar energy systems harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, while wind farms utilize the region’s ample wind resources for renewable power generation. Additionally, seawater desalination techniques are employed to ensure a sustainable water supply for airport operations.

The combination of these environmental innovations demonstrates the airport’s dedication to minimizing its ecological footprint and promoting responsible practices in the Galápagos Islands. By embracing renewable energy sources and employing efficient water management strategies, Seymour Galapagos Ecological Airport sets an example for environmentally conscious aviation infrastructure.

Cotopaxi International Airport, known as Aeropuerto Internacional Cotopaxi in Spanish, is an airport located in Latacunga, the capital city of Cotopaxi Province in Ecuador. Situated in a wide valley within the Ecuadorian Andes, the airport is surrounded by rising terrain to the east and west, with majestic mountains visible in all directions.

The construction of the airport’s terminal took place in the 1960s. Its origins can be traced back to the flourishing era of NASA’s Space Program when the agency collaborated in the establishment of large runways at strategic locations worldwide. These runways were intended to serve as emergency landing sites for NASA’s shuttles in case of unforeseen contingencies. Consequently, the Latacunga runway was constructed in accordance with American technical specifications, ensuring its precise positioning, strength, and length.

One notable feature of Cotopaxi International Airport is its runway, which ranks as the second longest in Ecuador. The overall runway length includes a 440-meter (1,440 ft) displaced threshold specifically located on Runway 19. This threshold designates a portion of the runway where landing aircraft must touch down beyond, ensuring safe clearance for takeoff operations.

In the past, Cargo B airlines utilized Cotopaxi International Airport for their operations, employing Boeing 747 freighter airplanes. This made the airport capable of accommodating the largest aircraft of its time. Currently, Cargolux, a renowned cargo airline, operates flights from Cotopaxi to various destinations in Europe using this aircraft type.

Cotopaxi International Airport stands as a vital transportation hub in the region, serving both domestic and international flights. Its strategic location amidst the breathtaking natural landscape of the Andes adds to its allure, attracting travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Eloy Alfaro International Airport, located near the coastal city of Manta in the Manabí Province of Ecuador, serves as both a civilian airport and a military air base. The airport, also referred to as Eloy Alfaro Air Base, is named after Eloy Alfaro, a former president of Ecuador. Its official inauguration took place on October 24, 1978, under the auspices of the Ecuadorian Air Force. In terms of passenger and aircraft traffic, it ranks as the fourth-busiest airport in Ecuador.

Historically, a section of the airport was utilized by the Air Forces Southern Air Force component of the United States Southern Command until July 2009. This collaboration aimed to combat illegal cocaine trafficking in the northwestern region of South America. The U.S. aircraft stationed at Eloy Alfaro International Airport provided surveillance information to the Joint Interagency Task Force South, headquartered in Key West. With around 100 missions per month, these aircraft patrolled the area, monitoring and intercepting drug-running boats departing from Colombia.

On April 14, 2009, William Brownfield, the U.S. ambassador to Colombia, officially announced the planned relocation of the base from Eloy Alfaro International Airport to an alternative location within Colombia. This decision marked a shift in operational logistics and the strategic efforts against drug trafficking in the region.

Guayaquil International Airport, officially known as José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, serves as a vital international gateway for Guayaquil, the capital city of the Guayas Province and the second most populous city in Ecuador. It holds the distinction of being the second busiest airport in the country, playing a critical role in connecting Guayaquil to domestic and international destinations.

The airport was originally named Simón Bolívar International Airport, paying tribute to the renowned South American liberator. However, the airport’s name was subsequently changed to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in honor of José Joaquín de Olmedo, an esteemed Ecuadorian poet, the first mayor of Guayaquil, and a former president of Ecuador.

Guayaquil International Airport is located approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) north of Guayaquil’s city center. Its runway spans a length of 2,790 meters (9,154 feet) and includes a displaced threshold of 240 meters (787 feet) on Runway 21 and 100 meters (328 feet) on Runway 03.

In July 2014, the airport underwent significant expansion in its domestic area, enhancing its capacity to handle passenger traffic. With the expansion, Guayaquil International Airport has the capability to accommodate up to 7.5 million passengers annually. This increase in capacity demonstrates the airport’s commitment to meeting the growing demands of air travel and supporting tourism, business activities, and cultural exchange, facilitating economic growth and development in the Guayas Province and the surrounding regions.

Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located in Tababela parish about 18 kilometers (11 miles) east of Quito, Ecuador, serves as a major international airport for the city. It holds the distinction of being the busiest airport in Ecuador and ranks among the busiest airports in South America. Due to its location, it is colloquially referred to as Tababela Airport.

Construction of the new airport began in 2006, marking a significant milestone in the region’s aviation infrastructure. The financing contract for the project underwent renegotiation and was signed on August 9, 2010, further facilitating the airport’s progress.

The airport serves as a significant hub for Avianca Ecuador and LATAM Ecuador, playing a crucial role in connecting travelers to various destinations. Previously, it served as the main hub for TAME, the national flag carrier of Ecuador, until the airline underwent liquidation by the Ecuadorian government in 2020.

Opened in February 2013, Mariscal Sucre International Airport replaced the older airport of the same name, which had been in operation for 53 years. The decision to construct a new airport was driven by the need to expand capacity and accommodate larger aircraft, as the old airport, located amidst the mountainous city of Quito with high wind currents, presented significant risks and limitations for further development.

The airport is named after Antonio José de Sucre, a prominent leader in the fight for independence. Notably, Mariscal Sucre International Airport received the prestigious 5-star rating from Skytrax, making it the first airport in the Western Hemisphere to achieve this distinction, highlighting its exceptional standards and passenger experience.