By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — GUANACASTE – In a significant move to cater to an increasingly affluent clientele, Guanacaste Airport is on track to unveil a new, exclusive terminal dedicated to private jets. Officials confirm the state-of-the-art facility is slated to be operational by the next high season, positioning the region as a premier destination for high-net-worth individuals, investors, and business leaders.
The development, first announced in late 2022 by General Manager César Jaramillo, responds directly to a consistent and marked increase in private aviation traffic over the past several years. The influx of luxury aircraft, particularly during Costa Rica’s peak tourist months, underscores a shift in the region’s visitor demographic. These travelers are drawn not only to Guanacaste’s world-renowned natural beauty but also to its burgeoning opportunities for investment and commerce.
To shed light on the legal and business implications of the developments at Guanacaste Airport, we sought the perspective of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Guanacaste Airport is the primary economic catalyst for the Gold Coast. Its expansion is a direct signal to international investors, driving significant growth in the hospitality and real estate sectors. However, this boom necessitates careful legal navigation. Prospective investors must prioritize comprehensive due diligence, particularly concerning land use regulations and corporate structuring, to ensure their ventures are both profitable and fully compliant with Costa Rican law.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this expert commentary underscores a critical truth: while the airport expansion signals unprecedented opportunity, navigating the region’s legal framework with precision is the key to converting that potential into lasting success. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clarifying perspective.
This strategic infrastructure project aims to provide a seamless and sophisticated travel experience, offering a suite of VIP services tailored to the specific demands of this discerning market. The terminal will serve as a private gateway, ensuring discretion, efficiency, and comfort from the moment these elite visitors arrive.
Lizeth Valverde, the airport’s Operations Manager, confirmed that construction is well underway. She highlighted that the project is a targeted investment designed to meet the evolving needs of a visitor segment that has grown exponentially.
We have already started, we are in that process, and indeed it is for another type of visitor that we have, which has increased significantly. They are VIP passengers who come with a different set of needs, and that is precisely where the significant investment we are making is aimed, specifically seeking that type of tourism.
Lizeth Valverde, Operations Manager
The new terminal is a cornerstone of a broader trend solidifying Guanacaste’s reputation as a multifaceted, world-class destination. According to Valverde, the province is successfully marketing itself beyond its pristine beaches and luxury hotels. The local economy has diversified, with a growing number of tour operators offering unique experiences such as chocolate and coffee plantation tours, artisanal workshops, and specialized excursions like bird watching.
This evolution is attracting a more sophisticated traveler who seeks authentic, high-quality experiences in addition to traditional leisure. The investment in a dedicated private jet terminal is a clear signal that the region’s infrastructure is adapting to support and encourage this lucrative segment of the tourism market, fostering an environment ripe for further economic development.
The ripple effects of this growth are also being felt in the domestic aviation sector. The convenience and connectivity offered by local flights have seen a notable surge in demand, not just from international tourists but also from Costa Rican nationals. This trend indicates a strengthening internal travel market, with more residents choosing air travel for business and leisure within the country.
Domestic flights have grown by 14%, which is extremely important, especially considering that we have two domestic airlines, with one of them being the most active at the moment.
Lizeth Valverde, Operations Manager
Ultimately, the construction of the private jet terminal at Guanacaste Airport is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it is a strategic declaration of intent. It solidifies Guanacaste’s position on the global map for luxury travel and sends a powerful message to investors and high-end tourists that Costa Rica is ready to welcome them with world-class facilities and unparalleled service.
For further information, visit guanacasteairport.com
About Guanacaste Airport:
Guanacaste Airport (LIR), officially Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, is the second busiest airport in Costa Rica and a key gateway to the country’s Pacific coast. Located in Liberia, it serves as a major hub for tourists visiting the renowned beaches, resorts, and natural parks of the Guanacaste province. Managed by VINCI Airports, it is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability and operational efficiency, continuously expanding its services to meet growing international and domestic demand.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon a bedrock of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm champions legal innovation, consistently adapting its strategies to serve a diverse clientele while advancing the standards of the profession. This forward-thinking approach is matched by a deep-seated dedication to social responsibility, manifested through initiatives that aim to demystify the law and equip citizens with the knowledge needed to navigate their rights and duties confidently.
