list of airports in Ecuador
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# Exploring the Skies: A Guide to Ecuador's Airports
Ecuador, a country brimming with natural beauty from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes Mountains and the Galapagos Islands, welcomes travelers with a diverse network of airports. Whether you're embarking on an adventure to explore its mainland cities or venturing to the unique ecosystems of its islands, understanding Ecuador’s airport landscape is crucial for a smooth journey. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Ecuador, covering both international and domestic hubs, and offering helpful information for planning your trip.
## **International Airports in Ecuador**
Ecuador boasts three primary international airports, serving as gateways for visitors from around the globe. These airports handle the majority of international arrivals and departures and offer a range of amenities for travelers.
* **José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) – Guayaquil:** Located in the coastal city of Guayaquil, this is Ecuador’s second busiest airport. It serves as a major hub for Avianca Ecuador and LATAM Ecuador, offering connections to destinations throughout the Americas and beyond. The airport has undergone significant modernization, providing a comfortable experience with shops, restaurants, and efficient services.
* **Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) – Quito:** Serving the capital city, Quito, this airport is the busiest in Ecuador. Situated high in the Andes, it’s one of the highest international airports in the world. Mariscal Sucre offers flights to North and South America, and Europe, and is a key hub for several airlines. Be prepared for potential altitude adjustments when arriving or departing.
* **Seymour Airport (GPS) – Galapagos Islands (Baltra Island):** This is the main airport serving the Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site. All flights to the Galapagos must transit through either Quito or Guayaquil for security and environmental control checks. Seymour Airport is crucial for tourism to the islands, offering access to various islands via inter-island flights or ferry services. A park entrance fee is required upon arrival.
## **Domestic Airports in Ecuador**
Beyond the international hubs, Ecuador has a network of domestic airports connecting various cities and regions. These airports are vital for internal travel, especially for reaching remote areas like the Amazon basin or smaller Galapagos Islands.
## **List of Airports in Ecuador**
Here's a table listing many of the airports in Ecuador, categorized by region and including key information:
| Airport Name | IATA Code | City | Province | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport | GYE | Guayaquil | Guayas | International |
| Mariscal Sucre International Airport | UIO | Quito | Pichincha | International |
| Seymour Airport | GPS | Baltra Island | Galapagos | International/Domestic |
| Coca Airport (Francisco de Orellana Airport) | OCC | Coca | Orellana | Domestic |
| Lago Agrio Airport (General Alberto Enríquez Gallo Airport) | IGO | Lago Agrio | Sucumbíos | Domestic |
| Loja Airport (Ciudad de Loja International Airport) | LJA | Loja | Loja | Domestic |
| Manta Airport (Eloy Alfaro International Airport) | MME | Manta | Manabí | Domestic |
| Esmeraldas Airport (General Rafael Nadman Curipallo Airport) | ESM | Esmeraldas | Esmeraldas | Domestic |
| Santo Domingo Airport (General Pedro Vicente Maldonado Airport) | DSU | Santo Domingo | Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas | Domestic |
| Tulcán Airport (Teniente Marco López Airport) | TUA | Tulcán | Carchi | Domestic |
| Cuenca Airport (Mariscal Lamar International Airport) | CUE | Cuenca | Azuay | Domestic |
| Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Airport | PBC | San Cristobal Island | Galapagos | Domestic |
| Puerto Ayora Airport (Itabaca Airport) | AIA | Santa Cruz Island | Galapagos | Domestic |
| Baltra Airport (Seymour Airport) | GPS | Baltra Island | Galapagos | International/Domestic |
| Macas Airport (Shell-Merorenda Airport) | MCA | Macas | Morona Santiago | Domestic |
| Tena Airport | TEN | Tena | Napo | Domestic |
| Salinas Airport (José Henríquez Airport) | SKS | Salinas | Santa Elena | Domestic |
| Guayaquil Airport (GYE) | GYE | Guayaquil | Guayas | International |
| Quito Airport (UIO) | UIO | Quito | Pichincha | International |
*Please note: This is not an exhaustive list, and airport operations can change. It's always best to confirm details with your airline.*
## **Traveling to the Galapagos Islands: Airport Considerations**
The Galapagos Islands have unique entry requirements and airport procedures. Here's what you need to know:
* **Transit through Mainland Ecuador:** All international flights to the Galapagos must first land in either Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) for a transit stop. This is where passengers undergo a security check and obtain a Transit Control Card (TCC).
* **Galapagos National Park Fee:** Upon arrival at Seymour Airport (GPS) or San Cristobal Airport (PBC), you'll be required to pay a Galapagos National Park entrance fee (currently $100 USD per adult, subject to change). Cash is often preferred.
* **Biosecurity Control:** Strict biosecurity measures are in place to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos. Expect thorough inspections of your luggage to prevent the introduction of foreign species.
* **Inter-Island Travel:** Once on the islands, you can travel between them via smaller domestic flights from Seymour or San Cristobal, or by ferry.
## **Tips for Navigating Ecuadorian Airports**
* **Arrive Early:** Especially for international flights, allow ample time for check-in, security, and potential delays.
* **Currency Exchange:** It's advisable to have some US dollars on hand, as they are widely accepted in Ecuador, including at the airports.
* **Baggage Handling:** Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
* **Transportation:** Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available outside the airports. Agree on a fare before starting your journey.
* **Altitude Awareness (Quito):** If you're flying into Quito, be aware of the high altitude and take it easy upon arrival. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity.
## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
**Q1: Do I need a visa to transit through Ecuador on my way to the Galapagos?**
**A:** It depends on your nationality. Many nationalities are visa-exempt for tourism stays of up to 90 days, including transit. Check Ecuador’s visa requirements based on your citizenship before traveling.
**Q2: What is the Transit Control Card (TCC)?**
**A:** The TCC is a mandatory fee ($20 USD) paid before departing for the Galapagos Islands from Quito or Guayaquil. It contributes to conservation efforts.
**Q3: Can I fly directly to the Galapagos from an international destination?**
**A:** No, all international flights to the Galapagos must transit through Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE).
**Q4: What airlines fly to Ecuador?**
**A:** Major airlines serving Ecuador include Avianca, LATAM, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Copa Airlines.
**Q5: Is it safe to travel through Ecuadorian airports?**
**A:** Yes, Ecuadorian airports generally maintain good security standards. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
## **Resources**
* **Corporación Aeroportuaria de Ecuador (CAE):** [https://www.cae.ec/](https://www.cae.ec/) (Official website for airport information)
* **Galapagos National Park Directorate:** [https://www.galapagos.gob.ec/](https://www.galapagos.gob.ec/) (Information on park fees and regulations)
* **Ecuador Tourism Board:** [https://www.ecuador.travel/](https://www.ecuador.travel/) (General travel information for Ecuador)
* **IATA Airport Information:** [https://www.iata.org/en/airports/](https://www.iata.org/en/airports/) (Detailed airport codes and information)