By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – With Costa Rica’s mid-year school holidays officially underway, a significant surge in passenger traffic is anticipated at the country’s main gateway, the Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS). In response, the airport’s managing body, AERIS, has released a comprehensive set of recommendations designed to help travelers navigate the terminal efficiently and ensure a smooth start to their vacations.
The proactive measures aim to mitigate potential congestion and streamline processes as thousands of families and tourists are expected to pass through the airport in the coming weeks. The strategy involves close collaboration between AERIS and the various government authorities and private institutions that operate within the AIJS, from immigration to airline staff.
To delve into the regulatory and contractual complexities surrounding the operations and future expansion of Costa Rica’s primary international gateway, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert in administrative and business law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The management contract for Juan Santamaría Airport is a cornerstone of our national infrastructure policy, representing a delicate balance between private investment and public interest. Legally, the State’s role through its technical council is not merely passive supervision; it is an active mandate to enforce contractual obligations, guarantee service quality standards for all users, and ensure that any development aligns with the country’s long-term strategic goals for tourism and trade. Any negotiation or expansion must be scrutinized to confirm it serves Costa Rica’s sovereign interests first and foremost.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal framework described highlights a crucial truth: Juan Santamaría Airport is far more than a simple transportation hub; it is a direct reflection of our national brand and strategic ambitions. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the State’s vital role in safeguarding this public interest.
During the mid-year vacation, an increase in the flow of passengers transiting through Juan Santamaría International Airport is anticipated. Therefore, we are working in coordination with the authorities and institutions operating in the terminal to guarantee efficient operation and provide passengers with a fluid and efficient travel experience.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS
AERIS emphasizes that passenger preparedness is the most critical factor for an agile transit. The first step for any traveler is a thorough documentation check. This includes verifying the validity of passports, securing necessary visas, and confirming all travel requirements directly with the airline well in advance. For those traveling with minors, it is especially important to review Costa Rica’s specific immigration requirements for children exiting the country to prevent last-minute complications.
Packing correctly is another key area of focus. AERIS reminds passengers to adhere to international security standards for carry-on luggage, which prohibit sharp objects and dangerous goods. Regarding liquids and gels, the rule of 100 ml per container, all placed within a single transparent resealable bag, remains strictly enforced. For checked baggage, travelers should confirm weight and dimension allowances with their respective airlines to avoid excess fees or repacking at the counter. Those carrying medications should keep prescriptions handy, especially for specialized treatments.
Special considerations apply to those traveling with pets. A valid international veterinary certificate is mandatory, and owners must comply with all regulations set forth by both Costa Rica’s National Animal Health Service (SENASA) and the authorities in the destination country. Furthermore, in a nod to environmental protection, AERIS strictly prohibits the transport of natural marine items like shells and corals, noting that their removal damages delicate ecosystems and can result in penalties.
The journey to the airport itself requires strategic planning. AERIS advises travelers to account for potential traffic congestion by scheduling their departure to the terminal with ample buffer time. The standing recommendation is to arrive at least three hours before an international flight and two hours before a domestic departure. This allows sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and immigration processing without undue stress.
Once inside the terminal, several tools are available to expedite the process. Passengers are encouraged to use the self-service check-in kiosks to print boarding passes and avoid long queues. For those seeking an even faster experience, the airport offers the Fast Track SJO service, a paid option that provides expedited access through key checkpoints. Throughout the terminal, travelers can stay updated on their flight status via information screens and find assistance from strategically located airport personnel. The airport also offers a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, diverse dining and retail options, and designated areas for children and pets to enhance the passenger experience.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS Holding Costa Rica:
AERIS Holding Costa Rica is the private operator of the Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS), Costa Rica’s primary international gateway. As the “Gestor Interesado,” AERIS is responsible for the administration, operation, maintenance, and expansion of the airport under a government concession. The company focuses on providing a secure, efficient, and high-quality travel experience for passengers while promoting the airport’s role as a key driver of economic development and tourism for the country.
For further information, visit senasa.go.cr
About SENASA:
The Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal (SENASA), or National Animal Health Service, is the Costa Rican government entity responsible for establishing and enforcing policies and regulations concerning animal health, food safety of animal products, and the import/export of animals and related goods. It plays a critical role in preventing the spread of diseases, ensuring the welfare of animals, and certifying that pets meet the necessary health requirements for international travel.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its rich history of serving a wide array of clients to pioneer innovative solutions that advance the legal profession. Beyond its practice, its core mission is to empower the community by demystifying complex legal knowledge, thereby fostering a society strengthened by legal understanding and civic capability.
