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San Jose Santamaria Airport SJO

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SJO Airport Insights & Guide

Key SJO Airport Topics:

Getting to Know SJO Airport

Discover San Jose Santamaria Airport, Costa Rica's premier air hub, uniquely featuring an enchanting view of the surrounding mountains right from its runways. This concise guide equips you with key insights for a seamless journey through the airport, located a brief 20-minute drive from downtown San Jose. Perfect for both new and frequent flyers, it includes flight information, terminal details, parking, dining, and shopping options.

For a smooth transition from doorstep to departure, our guide covers everything you need for an effortless experience at SJO. Explore more about navigating airports with our Comprehensive Airport Guide, ensuring a relaxed start to your Costa Rican adventure.

WATCH VIDEO: Learn essential tips for a smooth departure from San Jose Costa Rica Airport on Copa Airlines:

SJO has one main terminal with two levels. The terminal is divided into three concourses: A, B, and C. Concourse A has 6 gates, Concourse B has 8 gates, and Concourse C has 5 gates. Major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, United, and Southwest operate out of Concourse A, while Concourse B is used by airlines such as JetBlue, Copa Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. Concourse C is primarily used by local airlines such as Sansa and Nature Air.

As you navigate the terminal, you'll find a variety of services and amenities available to you. There are several restaurants and cafes, including Starbucks, Burger King, and Pops. Duty-free shops are also available for those looking to purchase souvenirs or gifts. If you need to exchange currency, there are several currency exchange booths located throughout the terminal. Additionally, there are ATMs, a pharmacy, and a post office.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

SJO Airport has only one terminal, the Main Terminal. Therefore, there is no need for passengers to worry about getting between terminals. Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily navigate through the Main Terminal to find your departure gate. The Main Terminal offers a variety of services and amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, making it easy for travelers to stay connected while waiting for their flight.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SJO-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Juan Santamaria International has a single terminal divided into two main areas: the Main Terminal and the Domestic Terminal. If you're flying internationally, make sure to head to the Main Terminal early to account for longer security lines." — Carlos R., Alajuela, Costa Rica, August 2023

"The signage at SJO is pretty straightforward, but if you’re ever in doubt, airport staff are very helpful and usually bilingual. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions." — Maria G., Heredia, Costa Rica, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport is just a short drive from San José. I recommend using the official airport taxis for safety and reliability. They have fixed rates, so you won’t get overcharged." — Juan P., San José, Costa Rica, September 2023

"If you’re looking to save money, the public bus service is a great option. It’s frequent and very affordable, but be prepared for a bit of a walk to the bus stop outside the terminal." — Ana M., Alajuela, Costa Rica, October 2023

Parking

"Parking at SJO can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. I always book my parking spot in advance online. It saves a lot of hassle and ensures you have a spot when you arrive." — Luis F., Heredia, Costa Rica, November 2023

"The long-term parking lot is a bit of a walk from the terminal, but there are frequent shuttles that make it easy to get to your flight on time." — Sofia L., San José, Costa Rica, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"There are some great dining options at SJO. If you have time, check out the local cuisine at the various eateries. It’s a nice way to get a taste of Costa Rica before you leave." — Diego T., Alajuela, Costa Rica, January 2024

"For last-minute shopping, the duty-free stores offer a good selection of local products and souvenirs. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality is worth it." — Laura K., Heredia, Costa Rica, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive at least three hours before your international flight. Security lines can be long, especially during peak hours. Better to be early and relaxed than rushed and stressed." — Ricardo S., San José, Costa Rica, March 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information screens. Delays are communicated promptly, and it’s better to stay informed than to miss an important update." — Elena V., Alajuela, Costa Rica, April 2024

iFly Tip: Get quick access to important travel information with our air travel reference guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

San Jose Airport provides convenient options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the curbside parking area located outside the main terminal. However, keep in mind that parking is not allowed in this area for more than a few minutes, and vehicles must be attended at all times. Unattended vehicles may be towed away by airport authorities.

If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, you can use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area is free to use and provides a convenient place to wait while your passenger collects their luggage and clears customs. Once your passenger is ready, you can proceed to the curbside area for pick-up. Please note that parking is not allowed in the cell-phone waiting area, and vehicles must be attended at all times.

Parking Facilities & Options

SJO offers a variety of parking options to suit every traveler's needs. Parking is available at both the main terminal and off-airport locations.

The main terminal offers both covered and uncovered parking options, with easy access to the airport. There are also cell phone waiting areas available for those waiting for arriving passengers.

For those looking for more economical parking options, off-airport parking is available with shuttle service to the airport. This option is a great way to save money on parking fees while still ensuring a convenient and hassle-free airport experience.

Handicapped parking is available at both the main terminal and off-airport locations, with designated spaces located close to the terminal for easy access.

Transportation Options

The airport in Costa Rica offers a variety of ground transportation options to get you to your final destination:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental companies such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available at the airport. You can find their rental counters in the baggage claim area. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available outside the airport terminal, with a designated drop-off area in front of the terminal building. Fares are regulated by the government and based on the destination zone. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before getting in the taxi to avoid any misunderstandings.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and DiDi are available at the airport. The pickup area for these services is located in the parking lot across from the terminal building. Be aware that some restrictions may apply, such as the number of passengers and luggage allowed in these vehicles.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are a convenient option for travelers staying at nearby hotels. The service is available 24/7 and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. The pickup area for airport shuttles is located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on the destination, so it's a good idea to check in advance.
  • Public Transportation: Public buses are available outside the airport terminal, with the bus stop located across from the parking lot. The fare is affordable and varies depending on the destination. Buses provide a budget-friendly option for reaching various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

iFly Tip: Find the best seats and more with advice from our overweight passengers guide.

Airport Hotels

Are you in search of a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? Our comprehensive list of Juan Santamaria Airport Hotels is here to assist you. Whether you're in transit, catching an early flight, or simply want to stay close to the airport, we've got you covered. From budget hostels to luxury accommodations, these hotels offer a variety of amenities to meet your travel needs. Several of these hotels are located within a short distance from the airport, making them ideal for air travelers. Some offer complimentary shuttle services, ensuring seamless transfers for guests. Others are situated near local attractions like the breathtaking Poas National Park and the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, perfect for travelers looking to explore the area. No matter what your preference, these hotels offer comfort, convenience, and easy access to your flight.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat before your flight, check out Burger King or Dunkin' Donuts, both located in the main terminal. For a sit-down meal, La Pampa Argentina serves up delicious steak and seafood dishes, while Café Britt offers a selection of Costa Rican coffee and light bites.

When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you need to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or gifts, head to Pura Vida or Britt Shop. For electronics and gadgets, visit iShop or InMotion. And if you're in need of some reading material for your flight, stop by Libros & Libros.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at San Jose Santamaria Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: San Jose Santamaria Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the main terminal for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, San Jose Santamaria Airport features designated children's play areas in the terminal.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available in the main terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located in the main terminal and is open 24/7 to assist travelers.
  • Airport Lounges: San Jose Santamaria Airport features several lounges, including the VIP Santamaria Lounge. These lounges offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. Access may be available for a fee or through membership programs.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at San Jose Airport in Costa Rica.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own mobile apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to their flight status. It's a good idea to download the app for your airline before your trip to stay informed.

Another way to stay informed is by signing up for text, email, or push notifications through third-party flight tracking services like FlightAware or FlightStats. These services provide real-time updates on flight status and can send alerts about any changes to your flight.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at SJO by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: See how advanced avionics assist pilots in flight navigation in our cockpit operation overview.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: San Jose Santamaria Airport (SJO) is located in Alajuela, just outside of San Jose, Costa Rica.
  • Terminals: The airport has one main terminal serving both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines operating at SJO include Avianca, Copa Airlines, and American Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the SJO Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 20,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: SJO sees around 200 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from SJO are Panama City, Miami, Mexico City, Madrid, and Houston.
  • Hub Status: San Jose Santamaria Airport is a hub for Avianca Costa Rica and Volaris Costa Rica.

Airport History

The San Jose Santamaria Airport, located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, has a rich history dating back to the early 1950s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1955 - The airport was officially opened as the Aeropuerto Internacional El Coco.
  • 1975 - The airport was renamed to Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaria in honor of a national hero who died in battle.
  • 1982 - The airport underwent a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 1995 - The airport was privatized and became the first airport in Latin America to be managed by a private company.
  • 2002 - A new international terminal was opened, increasing the airport's capacity to handle more passengers and flights.
  • 2012 - The airport underwent another expansion, adding a new parking garage and more boarding gates.
  • 2015 - The airport celebrated its 60th anniversary with a series of events and activities.
  • 2019 - The airport began construction on a new cargo terminal, which is expected to be completed in 2021.

Today, the San Jose Santamaria Airport is one of the busiest airports in Central America, serving millions of passengers each year and connecting Costa Rica to destinations around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Juan Santamaría International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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San Jose Santamaria Airport Q&A

The airport has one main terminal with three concourses: A, B, and C.
Major airlines include Delta, American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Copa Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sansa, and Nature Air.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes, including Starbucks, Burger King, Pops, La Pampa Argentina, and Café Britt.
Yes, the airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
Transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services like Uber and DiDi, airport shuttles, and public buses.
Yes, there are covered and uncovered parking options at the main terminal, as well as off-airport parking with shuttle services.
Yes, the airport features several lounges, including the VIP Santamaria Lounge, offering amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating.
You can check flight status using in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, third-party flight tracking services, or the airport's flight departures page on ifly.com.
You can visit the lost and found office located in the main terminal for assistance.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, some offering complimentary shuttle services and easy access to local attractions.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport