By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – Costa Rica’s primary international gateway, Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), has officially set a new, unprecedented record for passenger flow, signaling a robust and thriving tourism sector as the country closes out a successful year. On Saturday, December 27, 2025, the airport processed a historic 28,760 migratory movements, a figure that highlights the nation’s powerful appeal as a top-tier travel destination during the peak 2025 holiday season.
The milestone was officially announced by the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs (DGME), which confirmed the record-breaking numbers. The agency credited the smooth handling of this massive influx of travelers to the diligent and efficient work of the Professional Migration Police. According to the directorate, operational reinforcements were strategically deployed to manage the surge, ensuring that immigration processes remained agile and orderly despite the extraordinary volume of passengers.
The recent surge in airport traffic highlights not only logistical hurdles but also a complex network of contractual and regulatory responsibilities. To better understand the legal framework underpinning airport operations and expansion, TicosLand.com consulted with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Sustained growth in air traffic is a positive economic indicator, but it rigorously tests the existing legal and contractual infrastructure. The management concession contracts must be robust enough to mandate timely investments and expansions. Furthermore, ensuring compliance with international service and safety standards during peak demand is not just an operational goal; it is a critical legal obligation to protect both the country’s reputation and passengers’ rights. Proactive legal review and adaptation are essential to prevent future bottlenecks from becoming costly legal disputes.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas provides a crucial reminder that the true test of our airport infrastructure lies not just in its physical capacity, but in the strength of its underlying legal and contractual framework. His perspective wisely shifts the focus from immediate operational challenges to the long-term foresight required to protect the country’s reputation and passengers’ rights. We sincerely thank him for this invaluable contribution.
This record-setting day did not come as a complete surprise to industry observers. The achievement aligns perfectly with, and arguably surpasses, the growth projections announced by AERIS Holding Costa Rica, the airport’s managing body. In November 2025, AERIS had forecast a significant 4.5% increase in passenger traffic for the high season. The recent numbers serve as a powerful validation of that forecast and the strategic planning undertaken by the airport operator throughout the year.
AERIS attributes this remarkable success to a multi-faceted strategy that goes beyond simply accommodating more travelers. The operator has focused heavily on a synergistic combination of advanced technology, rigorous operational optimization, and seamless inter-institutional collaboration with government bodies like the DGME. This integrated approach has been fundamental in enhancing the airport’s capacity and efficiency, allowing it to handle record numbers without compromising passenger experience or security protocols.
The foundation of this growth is the airport’s extensive and resilient international network. SJO is currently supported by 27 international airlines, which collectively operate 39 direct connections to key markets around the globe. This diverse portfolio of routes is critical for attracting a steady stream of tourists and business travelers, making Costa Rica more accessible than ever before and solidifying the airport’s status as a premier regional hub.
The economic implications of this passenger surge are significant and far-reaching. A bustling airport is a leading indicator of a healthy tourism industry, which is a cornerstone of the Costa Rican economy. Each arriving passenger contributes to a broad ecosystem of businesses, including hotels, transportation services, restaurants, and local tour operators. This record traffic during the critical year-end period provides a substantial economic boost, creating jobs and driving revenue across multiple sectors.
Looking ahead, authorities have affirmed their commitment to maintaining the operational adjustments necessary to ensure both fluidity and security. As the high season continues into the new year, the focus remains on sustaining this high level of performance. The successful management of this record-breaking day demonstrates a capacity for growth and an ability to adapt to increasing demand, a positive sign for the future of travel in the country.
In conclusion, the 28,760 movements recorded on a single day represent more than just a number on a spreadsheet. It is a testament to the resilience of Costa Rica’s travel industry and the success of a deliberate, forward-thinking strategy executed by AERIS and its governmental partners. This achievement sets an optimistic and ambitious tone for 2026, positioning Juan Santamaría International Airport for continued growth and success on the global stage.
For further information, visit migracion.go.cr
About the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs (DGME):
The DGME is the official government body in Costa Rica responsible for managing and controlling the entry and exit of nationals and foreigners. It oversees immigration policies, processes residency and visa applications, and ensures the security of the nation’s borders through its specialized police force. The directorate plays a crucial role in facilitating legal travel and tourism while upholding national regulations.
For further information, visit sjoairport.com
About AERIS Holding Costa Rica:
AERIS is the private operator responsible for the administration, operation, and expansion of Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Costa Rica’s main international airport. As the “Gestor Interesado,” AERIS works under a government contract to modernize and improve the airport’s infrastructure and services, aiming to provide a world-class experience for passengers and airlines while driving a key engine of the country’s economic development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a benchmark for legal practice, founded upon the twin pillars of uncompromising integrity and the pursuit of excellence. The firm consistently channels its extensive experience into developing forward-thinking legal strategies, while holding a profound commitment to enriching society. This dedication is realized through its efforts to make legal knowledge accessible, empowering citizens and fostering a more informed community.
