⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic → International
75
minutes
International → Domestic
75
minutes
International → International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
115
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Monse?or ?scar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) is El Salvador?s main international gateway, located in San Luis Talpa about 50 km from San Salvador. The airport?s passenger terminal is a single primary complex that has been expanded in phases to handle growing regional demand.
A major terminal expansion added a three-story building with five new waiting rooms, five boarding bridges for wide-body aircraft, a commercial area with 14 shops, and expanded immigration processing with additional counters. These upgrades were part of a $56 million investment to increase capacity and improve passenger flow.
The airfield supports international jet operations with a 3,200-meter runway (07/25) and a secondary 800-meter runway (18/36). This runway configuration accommodates regular international service while maintaining flexibility for smaller aircraft.
🔄 Connection Tips
Short international-international connections possible as regional Avianca hub. Use second-floor checkpoint for faster security processing. Only connection center in Central America for Avianca network. Three-level terminal with efficient passenger flow design. Located 42km from San Salvador with 30-minute drive via four-lane motorway. Excellent on-time performance (89.33%) makes connections reliable. Check-in expansion allows 1,464 passengers/hour processing. Avianca transfer desks located airside for connection assistance.
⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic → International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Ilopango International Airport (ILS) is a historic aviation facility located in San Salvador, El Salvador. Originally serving as the country's primary international gateway, it now functions as a secondary airport focused on military operations, general aviation, and limited regional commercial services. Its location just 9 kilometers east of the capital city's center makes it a highly convenient option for business travelers and private aviation users.
The passenger terminal at Ilopango maintains a classic and efficient design, providing essential services for those traveling on regional carriers such as TAG Airlines and CM Airlines. The facility includes check-in counters, a waiting lounge, and basic arrival services. While it lacks the extensive retail and dining options of the newer international airport, it offers a much quieter and more streamlined experience for passengers who value quick processing and proximity to the urban core.
Because the airport shares its infrastructure with the Salvadoran Air Force, travelers should expect visible military presence and strict security protocols within the terminal area. The facility is also home to the National Aviation Museum, which is located in the original terminal building and offers a fascinating look at the country's aeronautical history. For visitors needing immediate access to San Salvador's government and commercial districts, Ilopango remains a strategic and vital entry point.
🔄 Connection Tips
Connecting through Ilopango International Airport (ILS) is a specialized experience, as the facility primarily handles regional and general aviation flights. Since there are no large-scale international-to-domestic or international-to-international transfer procedures, most connections occur between regional flights to and from other Central American destinations, such as Guatemala City or Roatán. If your journey involves a transfer at ILS, it is highly likely you are on a regional carrier or a private charter. All arriving passengers must disembark, collect their luggage, and clear customs and immigration within the small terminal area. For those connecting from Ilopango to a major international flight at El Salvador International Airport (SAL), a ground transfer is necessary. The drive between the two airports can take anywhere from 45 to 75 minutes depending on San Salvador's traffic along the Autopista Comalapa. It is highly recommended to pre-book a reliable taxi or a private car service for this transfer. There is no direct shuttle service between the two airports, so careful coordination of your arrival and departure times is essential. Always ensure you have a generous buffer—at least three to four hours—to account for the drive and the required check-in time at SAL. While waiting at the terminal, you can take advantage of the quiet atmosphere and the basic amenities provided. There are no premium lounges or extensive dining options, so it is a good idea to carry your own supply of snacks and water. It is also important to have all your travel documentation, including any necessary visas and permits for El Salvador, in a durable, waterproof folder. Since the airport shares facilities with the military, be respectful of all security measures and follow the instructions of the
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