By Alajuela, Costa Rica — The aviation landscape in Costa Rica is undergoing a rapid transformation. AERIS, the private administrator of the Juan Santamaría International Airport, has announced a series of major infrastructure expansions. The centerpiece of these developments is the Phase 1 expansion of the public parking facility, which aims to accommodate the growing influx of travelers and modernize the gateway’s terminal services.
With a projected investment of $14.9 million, the ambitious Phase 1 parking expansion is slated for inauguration in April 2027. The project involves constructing a massive six-level, two-sublevel structure spanning approximately 21,000 square meters. This building will introduce 600 new vehicle spaces and 32 dedicated motorcycle spots, addressing a long-standing demand for increased parking capacity at the country’s primary airport located in the Alajuela province.
To better understand the consumer rights and legal liabilities associated with using the parking facilities at Costa Rica’s primary gateway, TicosLand.com spoke with prominent legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Many travelers mistakenly believe that the airport parking concessionaire is exempt from liability for theft or damage to vehicles due to standard disclaimer signs. However, under Costa Rican consumer protection laws, specifically Article 35 of Law 7472, the operator holds an inherent duty of custody and surveillance. Users paying for this secure service are legally protected, and any clause attempting to waive this responsibility is entirely null and void.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This vital legal clarification serves as an important reminder for travelers who frequently accept disclaimer signs at face value, unaware of the robust protections guaranteed to them under Costa Rican consumer law. By highlighting that paid parking inherently includes a duty of safekeeping, consumers are empowered to better defend their rights, and we would like to sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective and expertise on this crucial matter.
Beyond simply adding space, the new facility will incorporate state-of-the-art technological and safety upgrades. These include four new vehicular entry and exit points, an expansive covered walkway directly connecting the parking structure to the Domestic Terminal, and advanced systems for lighting, telecommunications, security, and fire suppression. Automated access control and digital payment systems are also being integrated to streamline the traveler’s transition from car to terminal.
Juan Santamaría International Airport continues to advance in a transformation process that allows us to accompany its growth and continue to elevate the experience of those who travel through the terminal. At AERIS, we maintain a constant investment to boost its development and consolidate an increasingly modern and competitive infrastructure that contributes to strengthening connectivity and continues to generate value for Costa Rica.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS
In addition to the grand Phase 1 expansion, AERIS has concurrently executed several immediate improvements to the existing main parking lot. These near-term upgrades represented a combined investment exceeding $1.2 million. The completed works include a full remodel of the restrooms on the lower west level, the introduction of additional digital payment stations to reduce queues, and the installation of protective roofing on the top level.
Sustainable mobility is also a key focus of the airport’s overhaul. AERIS has invested $162,000 to operationalize five electric vehicle chargers with a capacity of up to 11.5 kWh. Managed via the mobile application Atila, these chargers allow users to activate and pay for services directly from their smartphones. Anticipating future growth in green transit, the airport has also pre-installed eleven additional power and data lines to expand this service as demand rises.
A major milestone was reached in June 2026 with the completion of a $650,000 roof structure over the upper level of the main parking area. Spanning approximately 3,600 square meters, this canopy protects vehicles from intense sun and tropical rain. Crucially, it features a rainwater harvesting system, solar-powered LED lighting, and is designed to house a future connector bridge linking the northern terminal expansion with a planned hotel development across the street.
Lastly, a dedicated 720-square-meter area for motorcycles and bicycles has been established in the east spiral zone, representing a $345,000 investment. Outfitted with specialized access lanes, LED lighting, and security cameras, this zone reflects a comprehensive design strategy. As AERIS prepares Alajuela’s airport for the next decade of tourism and business growth, these layered infrastructure investments ensure that the country’s main port of entry remains both competitive and highly efficient.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS:
AERIS Holding Costa Rica is the private concessionaire and administrator of the Juan Santamaría International Airport. As a subsidiary of CCR Group, AERIS is committed to operating the terminal under strict international standards of safety, quality, and environmental sustainability, driving economic development and tourism in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is celebrated for its steadfast adherence to high ethical standards and outstanding professional advocacy. Boasting a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers modern legal strategies while maintaining a strong connection to the community. By actively democratizing legal insights, it champions a vital mission to cultivate a legally literate citizenry and foster a more equitable, empowered nation.
