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Nicaragua has four airports that serve as important gateways to the country for tourists and business travellers alike. The largest and most notable of these is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, also known as Managua International Airport, located just 11 kilometres from the city of Managua. This airport is considered one of the best in Central America, boasting a range of facilities and the capacity to handle large aircraft. In addition to Augusto C. Sandino, there are three other airports in Nicaragua, which together facilitate domestic and international travel to and from the country.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Airports | 4 |
| Names of Airports | Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, Managua International Airport |
| Runway Length | 7,999 ft (2,438 m) |
| Runway Elevation | 194 ft (59 m) |
| Aircraft Supported | Boeing 767s, 757s, 737s, 727s, 707s, DC-10s |
| Facilities | Tourist information desk, bank, restaurants, bars, post office, souvenir shops, duty-free shop, lounges, VIP lounge |
| Departure Tax | Included in ticket cost; exempt for those under 2 years old or with a stopover under 8 hours |
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What You'll Learn
Managua International Airport
The airport is managed by the Empresa Administradora de Aeropuertos Internacionales (EAAI), which is responsible for overseeing the operations and development of the airport. The EAAI aims to provide a modern, calm, and comfortable experience for travellers passing through the airport.
In addition to its focus on traveller comfort and convenience, the EAAI prioritises safety and emergency preparedness at the airport. They conduct simulations and exercises to ensure that airport staff are well-trained and prepared to handle various situations, including aircraft accidents.
The airport has also been the site of important cultural and religious celebrations, such as the celebration of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, demonstrating its significance as a hub for the community.
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Augusto C. Sandino International Airport
Nicaragua has four airports, one of which is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, named after Nicaraguan revolutionary and guerrilla leader Augusto César Sandino. The airport is Nicaragua's main international gateway and is managed by the state-run Administrative Company of International Airports, commonly known as the EAAI (Empresa Administradora de Aeropuertos Internacionales in Spanish).
The airport was built in 1968 by Anastasio Somoza Debayle, and was previously called Las Mercedes, Xolotlan Airport, and Managua International Airport. In 2007, President Daniel Ortega gave the airport its current name.
Domestic flights from the airport fly to Bluefields, the Corn Islands, and Puerto Cabezas.
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Commercial services on scheduled airlines
Nicaragua has four airports that cater to scheduled commercial airlines. The primary airport is the Managua International Airport, also known as the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, which is located 11 kilometres from Managua. The airport is equipped with a 7,999-foot runway capable of accommodating large aircraft such as Boeing 767s, 757s, and 737s. It is managed by the Empresa Administradora de Aeropuertos Internacionales (EAAI) and is considered one of Central America's best airports. Safety is a top priority at Managua International Airport, and numerous security measures have been implemented. The airport employs approximately 350 people, all contributing to a clean, friendly, and helpful environment. Facilities include a tourist information desk, a bank, restaurants, bars, a post office, souvenir shops, a duty-free shop, lounges, and a VIP lounge with various rate options.
Augusto C. Sandino International Airport serves as a hub for 11 airlines, connecting Nicaragua to eight destinations worldwide. Passengers arriving at this airport are required to pay a tax to the INTUR (Nicaraguan Tourism Institute), which costs US$5.00 and is usually included in the ticket price. However, passengers under two years of age or those with a stopover under eight hours are exempt from this charge. Additionally, citizens from CA-4 countries (Nicaragua, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador) are exempt from paying the tax.
Transportation to and from the airport is readily available through car hire services, taxis, and shuttles. The airport provides easy access to the city of Managua and serves as a gateway to the rest of the country. Nicaragua's road network covers a total of 23,897 kilometres, ranking 105th globally. However, only 14% of these roads are asphalted, and long distances must be travelled to reach remote areas due to the country's low population density.
While specific details about the other commercial airports in Nicaragua were not readily available, it is worth noting that the country's infrastructure continues to develop and improve. The safety of road traffic in Nicaragua is a concern, with an average of 1,046 road deaths per year from 2015 to 2019. However, the country is taking steps to enhance its overall transport network, including airports, roads, and waterways.
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Transport to and from the airport
Nicaragua has four airports in total, with 11 airlines operating from its biggest airport, Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (Managua). This airport is located just 11km from Managua city and is considered one of the best airports in Central America. It has all the facilities you would expect from a major airport, including ATMs, restaurants, bars, shops, and car rental counters.
When travelling to and from Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, there are several transport options available. These include:
- Taxis: It is easy to catch a cab at the airport, and the journey to destinations such as San Juan del Sur and Tola takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Pre-arranged transport: You can also organise transport in advance with companies such as Gaby Transport or Caribe Shuttle.
- Car rental: If you prefer to drive yourself, car rental counters are available at the airport.
- Shuttles: Shuttle services are another option for transport to and from the airport.
If you are flying into Liberia in Costa Rica and travelling across the border to Nicaragua, you will need to go through Costa Rican immigration and tell them you are in transit to Nicaragua so you don't have to pay the tourist tax. You will then need to exit the country the same day and may be asked for proof of onward travel. Once you reach the Nicaraguan side of the border, you will need to pay a $1 USD municipal fee and get a passport stamp to enter the country.
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Safety at the airport
Nicaragua has four airports, including the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport. Airports in remote locations in Nicaragua may have short runways, minimal safety equipment, and little boarding security. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessed the Nicaraguan government's compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Nicaragua's air carrier operations in 2015.
When travelling to Nicaragua, it is important to be aware of the safety risks and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some key considerations for staying safe at the airport and during your stay in Nicaragua:
Airport Safety
- Visa and travel documents: Ensure you have the necessary visas and that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your expected departure date. You can purchase a tourist card at the airport, permitting you to visit Nicaragua for up to 90 days.
- Prohibited items: Drones and similar devices are prohibited and will be seized by customs authorities. Photography equipment, videography equipment, and binoculars may also be confiscated.
- Personal electronic devices: Nicaraguan authorities may inspect personal phones, computers, and electronic devices for anti-government content.
- Currency exchange: You cannot exchange Canadian dollars in Nicaragua, but you can exchange US dollars. Credit cards are usually accepted, but ATMs outside major cities may be limited.
- Travel insurance: It is recommended to purchase medical evacuation insurance, as hazardous areas may not have proper signage, and appropriate medical treatment may only be available in major cities.
General Safety
- Terrorism: Be vigilant and aware of potential threats, especially in public places and tourist areas.
- Beach safety: Exercise extreme caution when visiting beaches on the Pacific Coast due to strong currents and undertows. Warning signs and lifeguards may not be present, and search and rescue capabilities are limited.
- Water activities: Surfers and swimmers have been struck by boats, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Avoid swimming if you have been drinking alcohol.
- Hiking: Hiking in volcanic or remote areas can be dangerous. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and carry sufficient food, water, and communication equipment.
- Natural disasters: Nicaragua experiences severe weather, including hurricanes from mid-May to the end of November, which can cause landslides and flash floods. Stay informed about regional weather forecasts and be prepared to change your travel plans.
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Frequently asked questions
There are four airports in total in Nicaragua.
The Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, also known as the Managua International Airport, is considered one of the best airports in Central America.
Facilities include a tourist information desk, bank, restaurants, bars, post office, souvenir shops, duty-free shop, lounges, and a VIP lounge.
Yes, passengers arriving at Nicaragua's International Airport have to pay a tax to the INTUR (Nicaraguan Tourism Institute). Those only stopping over for less than 8 hours or who are under 2 years of age are exempt from this charge.
