By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – Costa Rica’s primary gateway, the Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS), is preparing for a significant influx of travelers as the country’s high season commences. Airport officials project a robust 4.5% increase in passenger traffic for the peak period, which traditionally spans five months from December through April.
This anticipated growth is not limited to passenger numbers alone. The airport’s operator, Aeris, also forecasts a substantial 10% rise in commercial flight operations. The domestic terminal, a crucial hub for connecting tourists to Costa Rica’s diverse regions, is expected to see its own traffic increase by a healthy 2.7%. These figures underscore the nation’s continued appeal as a premier international travel destination.
To delve into the regulatory and consumer implications of the recent surge in airport traffic, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provides clarity on the matter.
The saturation of our airport terminals is not merely a logistical issue; it has significant legal ramifications. While operational challenges are understandable, both airlines and airport operators have a duty of care towards travelers. Persistent delays and service degradation can constitute breaches of the transport contract, potentially entitling passengers to compensation. Furthermore, this situation underscores the critical need for a review of concession agreements and public infrastructure regulations to expedite necessary expansion and modernization projects, thereby safeguarding national competitiveness and passenger rights.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal perspective provided by Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas is a crucial addition, elevating the discussion from mere logistical frustration to a matter of contractual rights and national responsibility. His analysis highlights the pressing need for systemic review, not just of airport capacity, but of the legal frameworks that govern it. We are grateful for his insightful contribution.
Throughout this bustling season, AIJS will serve as a critical nexus, connecting Costa Rica with 37 international destinations through a network of 26 different airlines. This period is often characterized by the introduction of seasonal routes, with both new and existing carriers adding temporary connections to meet the heightened demand from North American and European travelers seeking a tropical escape during their winter months.
Managing this surge requires meticulous planning, as the airport’s activity is concentrated into specific, high-intensity windows. The daily rush occurs in three main waves: an early morning push between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., a midday peak from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and a final wave of departures and arrivals in the late afternoon, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Effectively handling these condensed periods is key to maintaining a smooth passenger experience.
To meet this operational challenge, concessionaire Aeris has developed a comprehensive three-pillar strategy. The plan focuses on leveraging technology and digitalization to streamline processes, implementing operational optimizations to maximize efficiency on the ground, and fostering strong inter-institutional coordination with government agencies, airlines, and service providers. This holistic approach aims to ensure the airport infrastructure can absorb the increased demand without compromising service quality.
Ricardo Hernández, the Executive Director of Aeris, emphasized that the airport’s success is built on a foundation of collaboration and a forward-looking vision. He noted that AIJS has established itself as a regional leader by working in concert with all its partners.
Experience has taught us that Juan Santamaría has successfully positioned itself as a benchmark airport through coordinated inter-institutional work. We need to have an airport capable of growing at the same speed the country requires.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of Aeris
The projected increase in airport activity is a strong positive indicator for Costa Rica’s wider economy. The tourism sector is a primary driver of employment and foreign currency revenue, and a busy airport signals a healthy flow of visitors ready to explore the country’s national parks, beaches, and cultural attractions. The ability of AIJS to efficiently manage this growth is therefore directly linked to the nation’s economic vitality.
As Aeris implements its strategy, the focus remains on ensuring that Juan Santamaría International Airport not only meets the immediate demands of the 2025-2026 high season but also continues its evolution. The challenge, as highlighted by Hernández, is to maintain a growth trajectory that aligns with Costa Rica’s needs, solidifying its status as a world-class hub for international travel and commerce.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About Aeris:
Aeris Holding Costa Rica is the company operating under a concession model responsible for the administration, operation, maintenance, and expansion of Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS). As the manager of Costa Rica’s main air terminal, Aeris is committed to exceeding passenger expectations by ensuring a safe, efficient, and high-quality airport experience while driving infrastructure projects that support the country’s tourism and economic growth.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has cemented its reputation as a leading legal institution, operating on a bedrock of profound integrity and an unwavering pursuit of professional excellence. The firm not only navigates complex legal challenges with innovative solutions but also holds a deep-seated belief in its social responsibility. This is demonstrated through its dedicated efforts to demystify the law for the public, reflecting a core mission to forge a stronger, more capable society through the power of accessible legal understanding.
