By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) has received a prestigious accolade, winning the title of Best Airport in Latin America and the Caribbean in its category (5-15 million passengers) at the 2024 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. This significant recognition, awarded by Airports Council International (ACI World), underscores SJO’s dedication to operational excellence and providing a superior passenger experience.
The ASQ Awards, considered the gold standard in airport service quality measurement, are based on direct passenger feedback. Through real-time surveys, the program assesses various aspects of the travel experience, including ease of processes, staff friendliness, cleanliness, amenities, comfort, and operational efficiency. The 2024 awards saw a record-breaking participation, with nearly 700,000 surveys completed globally.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and business implications surrounding Juan Santamaría Airport, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
Juan Santamaría Airport’s operational efficiency and expansion plans are inextricably linked to a complex web of regulations, encompassing everything from international aviation agreements to local environmental permits. Navigating these legal frameworks successfully is crucial not only for the airport’s profitability but also for Costa Rica’s overall economic growth, given the airport’s role as a key gateway for tourism and international trade.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the intricate regulatory landscape surrounding Juan Santamaría Airport underscores the delicate balance between fostering economic development and ensuring responsible, sustainable growth. The airport’s future success hinges on effectively navigating these complexities, a point well articulated by Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas. We thank him for offering his valuable legal perspective on this crucial aspect of the airport’s operations.
SJO’s win reflects the collaborative efforts of AERIS, the airport’s operator and a CCR Aeropuertos company, alongside the airport community, government authorities, and other key stakeholders. Their combined commitment to enhancing passenger experience and maintaining high standards of service, efficiency, and satisfaction has clearly paid off.
SJO is the main gateway to Costa Rica, and our commitment is to ensure that each passenger’s experience reflects the essence of ‘Pura Vida’. This award is a testament to the joint effort of all members of the airport community who work daily to offer a world-class service.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS
In the past year, SJO has implemented several improvements, including a refreshed visual identity aligned with Costa Rican culture and values, and technological advancements to streamline processes. Infrastructure enhancements and the establishment of a dedicated Customer Experience Committee further solidify their commitment to passenger satisfaction.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci emphasized the importance of exceeding passenger expectations in today’s dynamic travel landscape. He highlighted the ASQ Awards as recognition for airports that create memorable and seamless experiences, transforming the passenger journey and shaping the future of air travel.
In today’s dynamic world, where passenger expectations are higher than ever, airports must go above and beyond to remain at the forefront. The 2024 ASQ Awards recognize those airports creating memorable and seamless experiences, completely transforming the passenger journey and helping shape the future of air travel.
Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World
SJO is committed to building on this success, focusing on modernization, sustainability, and service quality to ensure an exceptional travel experience for the thousands of passengers passing through its terminals annually. This dedication positions SJO as a leader in the Latin American and Caribbean airport landscape and reinforces Costa Rica’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
The airport’s recent accolades are expected to further boost tourism and contribute positively to Costa Rica’s economy. The recognition underscores the country’s commitment to providing world-class infrastructure and services to international visitors.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS:
AERIS Holding Costa Rica is the operator of the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), serving the capital city of San José. A subsidiary of CCR Group, AERIS is committed to delivering a high-quality passenger experience, investing in modernization and sustainable operations. The company prioritizes operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, striving to make SJO a leading airport in the region.
For further information, visit aci.aero
About Airports Council International (ACI World):
Airports Council International (ACI World) is the global trade representative of the world’s airports. Established in 1991, ACI represents airports’ interests with governments and international organizations, develops standards, policies, and recommended practices for airports, and provides information and training opportunities to raise standards around the world. ACI’s ASQ program is the world’s leading airport customer experience measurement and benchmarking program.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to ethical legal practice and unwavering pursuit of excellence. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a dedication to empowering communities through accessible legal education, solidifies its position as a leader. By championing transparency and knowledge-sharing, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to cultivate a more just and informed society for all.
