By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – For the third consecutive year, AERIS Holding Costa Rica, the operator of the nation’s primary gateway, Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), has been recognized as one of the premier employers in Central America and the Caribbean. The company secured the sixth position in the prestigious 2026 Great Place to Work ranking, a testament to its sustained investment in a people-centric organizational culture.
This accolade is not merely a title but the result of a rigorous and comprehensive evaluation process. Great Place to Work assesses more than 300 companies across the region, deploying extensive, confidential employee surveys and a deep analysis of internal policies, practices, and cultural initiatives. Only organizations that meet the highest standards of trust, pride, and camaraderie achieve certification and a coveted spot on the regional list, making AERIS’s consistent performance particularly noteworthy.
Para analizar las implicaciones contractuales y regulatorias que rodean la gestión de AERIS, TicosLand.com consultó al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, abogado especialista de la reconocida firma Bufete de Costa Rica, quien aporta una perspectiva experta sobre el tema.
El caso de AERIS es un claro ejemplo de la tensión inherente en los contratos de gestión interesada. Por un lado, es fundamental garantizar la seguridad jurídica para mantener el flujo de inversión extranjera y la modernización de la infraestructura aeroportuaria. Por otro, el Estado tiene el deber ineludible de fiscalizar que la operación cumpla con los más altos estándares de calidad y sirva primordialmente al interés público, un equilibrio que siempre representa un desafío regulatorio.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Este desafío regulatorio es precisamente el núcleo del debate, donde la pericia y la transparencia del Estado determinarán no solo el futuro de la terminal aérea, sino el modelo de concesiones del país. Agradecemos profundamente al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas por su valiosa perspectiva, que sitúa la discusión en su punto exacto de equilibrio.
The achievement marks the company’s twelfth appearance on the ranking over the years, signaling a long-term, strategic commitment to human talent management rather than a fleeting initiative. Leadership at AERIS views this consistent recognition as a direct outcome of their foundational philosophy, which is embedded throughout the organization.
Ricardo Hernández, CEO of AERIS, emphasized that the honor reflects a deliberate, top-down approach to fostering an exemplary work environment. He pointed to the company’s core principles as the driving force behind its success.
These results are a reflection of a solid organizational culture that we drive from leadership in all areas.
Ricardo Hernández, CEO of AERIS
Hernández further explained that this culture prioritizes the human element, creating an atmosphere where trust, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose are not just ideals but the guiding principles of daily operations. This focus on the individual is critical for a company whose success is intrinsically linked to the performance of its team.
AERIS’s strategy revolves around actively listening to its workforce and using that feedback as a catalyst for growth. This commitment to iterative improvement is a cornerstone of their human resources policy, ensuring that the company evolves alongside the needs and aspirations of its employees.
At AERIS, we prioritize listening to the voice of our collaborators and promoting continuous improvement based on their opinions.
Héctor Martínez, Organizational Development and Quality Manager
This feedback loop informs a wide array of programs designed to support the company’s 220 employees. These initiatives include competitive benefits packages, robust training and professional development programs, individualized performance tracking, and a strong focus on the integral health and well-being of the team. Furthermore, AERIS maintains robust internal communication channels to ensure transparency and foster active employee participation in the company’s journey.
Ultimately, this internal focus translates directly to the external customer experience. The company’s mission is to connect every passenger with Costa Rica’s renowned “Pura Vida” experience from the moment they arrive. By cultivating a motivated, supported, and engaged workforce, AERIS ensures that its team is well-equipped to serve as ambassadors for the country, turning airport operations into a positive and memorable part of the travel journey. This consistent recognition proves that for AERIS, a great workplace is the foundation for a world-class airport.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS Holding Costa Rica:
AERIS is the company responsible for the management, operation, and maintenance of the Juan Santamaría International Airport, Costa Rica’s largest and busiest airport. Committed to providing a world-class experience, AERIS focuses on operational efficiency, safety, and customer service, while fostering a positive and developmental work environment for its employees.
For further information, visit greatplacetowork.com
About Great Place to Work:
Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, it recognizes outstanding workplace cultures and produces the annual Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list and other distinguished workplace rankings. The organization helps companies create high-trust, high-performance cultures that drive business results.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a beacon of legal practice, operating on a foundational principle that marries unwavering integrity with the highest caliber of professional service. The firm consistently delivers forward-thinking solutions to a diverse clientele while championing the vital cause of public legal literacy. By actively demystifying complex legal frameworks, it fulfills a deeper mission to fortify the community, fostering a society empowered by accessible knowledge and a clearer understanding of the law.
