Lois Larson
Nicaragua has four airports, with the main international gateway being the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, located 11km from Managua. The airport is also known as Managua International Airport and was previously called Las Mercedes, which served as a hub for many of Nicaragua's flag carriers. The airport is equipped with facilities such as a tourist information desk, restaurants, bars, shops, and lounges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Airports | 4 |
| Main International Airport | Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) |
| Previous Name of Main International Airport | Managua International Airport |
| Airport Management | EAAI (Empresa Administradora de Aeropuertos Internacionales) |
| Distance from Managua | 11 km |
| Runway Length | 8,015 ft (2,443 m) or 7,999 ft (2,438 m) |
| Elevation | 194 ft (59 m) |
| Facilities | Tourist information desk, bank, restaurants, bars, post office, souvenir shops, duty-free shops, lounges, VIP lounge, etc. |
| Domestic Flight Destinations | Bluefields, the Corn Islands, and Puerto Cabezas |
| Departure Tax | Included in ticket cost; exemption for passengers under 2 years old or with a stopover under 8 hours |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Augusto C. Sandino International Airport
Nicaragua's main international gateway is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport. The airport is located just 11 kilometres (7 miles) from Managua's downtown and is managed by the state-run Administrative Company of International Airports, commonly known as the EAAI (Empresa Administradora de Aeropuertos Internacionales). The airport runway measures 8,015 feet (2,443 metres) in length and is at an elevation of 194 feet (59 metres). It is capable of handling large aircraft such as the Boeing 767, 757, 737, 727, 707, and DC-10.
The history of the airport dates back to 1942 when the Nicaraguan government and Pan American Airways signed a contract to construct an airport by Las Mercedes Country Estate. Las Mercedes served as a hub for Nicaraguan flag carriers such as LANICA, Aeronica, and NICA. In July 1968, the airport was re-inaugurated by Anastasio Somoza Debayle after being upgraded to handle Boeing 707 aircraft. In the early 1970s, the airport was expanded further to include additional health, immigration, and customs inspectors.
When the Sandinistas took power, they renamed the airport after Augusto César Sandino, a Nicaraguan revolutionary and guerrilla leader. However, the airport fell into disrepair under their rule. It was not until 1996 that the airport underwent a significant expansion and remodelling, gaining two new boarding bridges. In 2001, the airport was renamed "Managua International Airport" by President Arnoldo Alemán. Finally, in 2007, President Daniel Ortega restored the airport's association with Sandino, giving it its current name.
Today, the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport offers a range of facilities for travellers, including a tourist information desk, bank, restaurants, bars, post office, souvenir shops, duty-free shops, and lounges. There is also a VIP lounge that provides additional services such as checking baggage and documents with customs and immigration, as well as bar service and snacks. Nicaraguan artist Róger Pérez de la Rocha has created two large portraits of Augusto César Sandino and Rubén Darío, which travellers can view in the lobby.
The Airport Ambush: Cartel's Deadly Surprise
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Managua's airport history
Managua's main international airport is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, located 11 kilometres (7 miles) from the city's downtown area. The airport is named after Augusto César Sandino, a Nicaraguan revolutionary and guerrilla leader.
The history of Managua's airport began with the Xolotlan Airport, built in 1915 and located about 2 miles east of Managua. However, this airport soon became too small to accommodate the city's growing airline services. In 1942, the Nicaraguan government and Pan American Airways signed a contract to construct a new airport by Las Mercedes Country Estate. Las Mercedes, as it was known, was upgraded over the years, including a redesign to accommodate Boeing 707 aircraft, and was re-inaugurated in July 1968 by Anastasio Somoza Debayle. In the early 1970s, the airport was further expanded to modern standards, including the addition of health, immigration, and customs inspectors. By 1975, it was serving multiple international carriers such as LANICA, Pan Am, KLM, and Avianca.
When the Sandinistas took power, they renamed the airport after Augusto César Sandino. However, the airport was not properly maintained during this period, and it began to deteriorate. It wasn't until 1996 that the airport underwent a significant expansion and remodelling, which included the installation of two new boarding bridges. In 2001, the airport was renamed "Managua International Airport" by President Arnoldo Alemán. In 2007, President Daniel Ortega once again changed the name to honour Sandino, and it became known as the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport.
Today, the airport is managed by the state-run Administrative Company of International Airports (EAAI), and it is considered one of the best and most modern airports in Central America. It boasts a range of facilities, including a tourist information desk, banks, restaurants, bars, and duty-free shops. The runway is capable of handling large aircraft, such as Boeing 767s and 757s, and safety is a top priority, with various security measures in place. The airport also serves as a hub for domestic flights within Nicaragua, connecting destinations such as Bluefields, the Corn Islands, and Puerto Cabezas.
Shanghai's Airport System: A Comprehensive Overview
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Facilities and services
Nicaragua's primary international gateway is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, also known as Managua International Airport. It is located 11 kilometres from Managua's downtown and is regarded as one of the greatest airports in Central America. The airport is managed by the state-run Administrative Company of International Airports (EAAI), which asserts that it is the most modern airport in Central America and the fourth safest in the world.
The airport has a runway that is 8,015 feet long and 194 feet high, capable of handling a variety of aircraft, including Boeing 767s, 757s, 737s, 727s, 707s, and DC-10s. It has seven gates with jetways and parking spaces for 20 planes. The airport has undergone several expansions and upgrades over the years, including a large expansion program that began in 2003 and was completed in 2006.
Augusto C. Sandino International Airport offers a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of travellers. These include:
- A tourist information desk, where visitors can obtain useful information about Nicaragua.
- A bank for financial services and currency exchange.
- Restaurants and bars offering a variety of dining and beverage options.
- A post office for postal services.
- Souvenir shops and duty-free shops for shopping and purchasing gifts.
- Lounges, including a VIP lounge with additional services such as baggage and document checking, bar service, and snacks.
- Transport options to and from the airport, including car hire, taxis, and shuttles.
- Ticketing facilities and flight information services.
The airport also features artwork by Nicaraguan artist Róger Pérez de la Rocha, who created two large portraits of Augusto César Sandino and Rubén Darío, which are displayed in the lobby.
Sydney Airport Shares: To Buy or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Safety and security
Nicaragua has one international airport, the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, formerly known as Las Mercedes, Xolotlan Airport, and Managua International Airport. It is located 11 km from downtown Managua, the capital city, and is considered one of the best and safest airports in Central America. The airport is managed by the state-run Administrative Company of International Airports (EAAI), which employs around 350 individuals to maintain a clean, friendly, helpful, and safe environment.
When travelling to and from the airport, passengers can use car hire services, taxis, or shuttles. However, it is important to note that the standard of driving in Nicaragua is generally low, and the condition of vehicles, especially taxis and buses, is often poor. There is a risk of drivers driving dangerously or under the influence of alcohol, and road conditions are typically poor, with little to no street lighting on major highways and in towns. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid driving at night if possible.
In terms of personal safety in Nicaragua, it is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Foreign nationals have been affected by violent crime in the country, and criminals often target people in vehicles. It is recommended to keep car windows closed and doors locked when travelling. Additionally, take extra caution when visiting markets, bus stations, the old cathedral in Managua, and poorer areas of towns. It is also important to note that it is illegal for foreigners to participate in any political activity in Nicaragua, including demonstrations, as these can sometimes turn violent.
Nicaragua's tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are not always conducted. Hazardous areas or activities may not be properly signposted, and staff may lack the necessary training or certifications. In the event of a diving injury, medical treatment may be limited, and the nearest hyperbaric chamber is in Puerto Cabezas, over 100 miles away from Corn Island, a popular diving destination. Therefore, it is recommended that visitors purchase medical evacuation insurance before travelling to Nicaragua.
Miami Airport: Nap Pods for Weary Travelers?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Transport to and from the airport
Nicaragua's main international airport gateway is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), which is located 11km from Managua's downtown. The airport is considered one of the best and safest in Central America. It features a range of facilities, including a tourist information desk, restaurants, bars, a post office, shops, and lounges.
When it comes to transport to and from the airport, there are several options available. These include car hire, taxis, and shuttles. For those who prefer a more private and customisable experience, there are transfer services that offer air-conditioned vehicles and English-speaking drivers. These services can be pre-booked, and they provide transportation to various destinations across Nicaragua, including Managua, Masaya, Rivas, San Juan del Sur, Granada, and Leon. Additionally, there are shared shuttle services that connect Nicaragua to neighbouring countries, such as El Salvador and Guatemala. These shuttles offer convenient pickups from hostels, hotels, or designated meeting points.
For those who wish to explore the country at their own pace, car rental services with drivers are also available. These drivers can act as guides, providing insights into Nicaraguan culture, history, and lesser-known attractions. This option offers independence and flexibility during your stay in Nicaragua.
When departing from Nicaragua's International Airport, it is important to note that a departure tax is included in the cost of the ticket. However, passengers who are only stopping over for less than 8 hours or are under 2 years of age are exempt from this charge. Additionally, citizens of CA-4 countries, which include Nicaragua, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, are exempt from paying the INTUR (Nicaraguan Tourism Institute) tax.
Redding's Airport: Does It Exist?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are four airports in Nicaragua. The main international gateway is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport.
The airport has a tourist information desk, a bank, restaurants, bars, a post office, souvenir shops, duty-free shops, and lounges.
Managua's previous airport, Xolotlan Airport, was built in 1915 but quickly became too small. In 1942, the Nicaraguan government and Pan American Airways signed a contract to construct a new airport, Las Mercedes, which was renamed Managua International Airport in 2001 and then renamed again in 2007 to its current name, Augusto C. Sandino International Airport.
