Overview of San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport is the main airport serving San José, the capital city of Costa Rica. It is located in the city of Alajuela, roughly 20 kilometers northwest of downtown San José. The airport is named after Juan Santamaría, a national hero who fought and died in the Battle of Rivas during the country’s war against William Walker’s filibuster army.
The airport is the busiest in Costa Rica, handling over 4 million passengers a year. It serves as a hub for the national airline, Avianca Costa Rica, as well as a number of international airlines such as Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. Over 30 airlines operate regular flights to and from the airport, connecting San José to destinations throughout the Americas and Europe.
Facilities at the airport include a variety of shops and restaurants, duty-free stores, ATMs, currency exchange offices, car rental agencies, and a VIP lounge. The airport also offers free Wi-Fi for passengers, as well as charging stations and comfortable seating areas throughout the terminal.
Transportation options to and from the airport include taxis, public buses, and hotel shuttles. Many hotels in the area offer complimentary shuttle service to the airport, while taxis and buses are readily available outside the terminal.
Overall, San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport offers travelers a modern and convenient gateway to the rest of Costa Rica and beyond. With a range of amenities and transportation options, it is well-equipped to handle the needs of both domestic and international travelers.
Terminals at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport has a single terminal building, which is divided into two levels. The ground level is used for arrivals and the upper level is for departures.
The airport has a total of 19 boarding gates, with 15 located on the upper level and four on the ground level. Terminal amenities include duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as currency exchange services and ATMs.
Passengers can also access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building. In addition, there are several lounges available for passengers, including a premium lounge and a VIP lounge.
The airport’s terminal building features modern and spacious design, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for travelers. The baggage claim area is also conveniently located near the exit doors, making it easy for passengers to retrieve their luggage and exit the terminal quickly.
Overall, the terminal at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport offers a convenient and comfortable travel experience for passengers. Whether arriving or departing, travelers can enjoy a range of amenities and services in a modern and inviting atmosphere.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport: Aeroméxico, Air Canada, Air Panama, American Airlines, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, and Volaris.
Domestic destinations include Golfito, Limón, Pavas, Puerto Jiménez, Quepos, Tamarindo, and Tortuguero. International destinations include Atlanta, Boston, Calgary, Cancún, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami, Minneapolis, Montreal, Newark, New York, Orlando, Panama City, San Francisco, Toronto, and Washington D.C.
Note that some airlines may change their routes seasonally, so it’s always best to check with the airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
Transportation Options at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport is the main airport serving San José, the capital of Costa Rica. The airport offers a range of transportation options for travelers to get to and from the airport.
One of the most popular options is the shuttle service. Many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from the airport, and there are also several private shuttle companies that operate in the area. These shuttles are often shared and can be a cost-effective way to get to your destination.
Car rental is another popular option at the airport. Several car rental companies have offices at the airport, including international brands such as Avis and Hertz. Renting a car can be a great option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas and visit nearby attractions.
For those on a budget, the shuttle bus is an affordable option. The public bus system in Costa Rica is reliable and efficient, and there are several bus lines that serve the airport. These buses can take you to San José or other nearby cities.
If you prefer a more comfortable option, there are several taxi companies that operate at the airport. These taxis are available 24/7 and can take you to any destination in the area.
Another option is the train line. The San José – Heredia train line runs from the airport to the city of Heredia, which is located about 10 miles north of San José. This train is a convenient and affordable way to get to the surrounding areas.
Overall, there are several transportation options available at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport. Whether you are looking for convenience, affordability, or comfort, there is an option that will suit your needs. It is always a good idea to research the different options before you arrive, so you can choose the best one for your trip.
Parking Options at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport offers several parking options for travelers.
The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking areas. The short-term parking is located in front of the terminal building, while the long-term parking is a bit farther away but still within walking distance.
Both options are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and offer secure and well-lit parking spaces.
Short-term parking rates start at $2 for every 30 minutes up to $23 per day, while long-term parking rates start at $2 for every 30 minutes up to $11 per day. A weekly rate of $66 is also available for those who need to park for more than seven days.
The airport also has a Valet parking service available for travelers who prefer to have their vehicles parked for them. Valet parking is located near the terminal entrance and costs $28 per day.
All parking rates are subject to change without notice, so it is best to check the airport’s official website for the latest information.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport provides passengers with various methods to check-in for their flight. The first option is online check-in, which allows passengers to check-in for their flight and print their boarding pass from the comfort of their own home or office. This can be done up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Passengers who prefer a self-service option can use one of the many self-service kiosks located throughout the airport terminals. These kiosks allow passengers to check-in for their flight, choose their seat, and print their boarding pass. Self-service kiosks are available to use 24/7.
For those who prefer traditional check-in methods, there are designated check-in counters located throughout the airport terminals. Passengers can present their passport and travel documents to the airline representative, who will check them in for their flight, assign a seat, and provide a boarding pass.
The check-in process at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport is designed to be fast and efficient, ensuring that passengers can focus on enjoying their travel experience. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time for the check-in process and any necessary security procedures.
Security Procedures and Tips for a Smooth Check at San José Airport
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport has implemented strict security measures to ensure the safety of all passengers.
As you go through the security checkpoint, you will be asked to place all your belongings, including electronic devices, in the x-ray machine.
Be sure to remove any metal items from your pockets, such as coins or keys, and place them in a bin provided by the airport.
You will also need to remove your shoes and belt before stepping through the metal detector.
To avoid delays, make sure to follow the rules and regulations established by the airport.
Place liquids and gels in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less in a clear, plastic, sealable bag.
If you are travelling with any medication, make sure to keep them in their original packaging and bring a doctor’s note if necessary.
By following these tips, you can help contribute to a smooth and efficient security check at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Customs and Immigration at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
Arriving passengers must first fill out an immigration form and present their passport. They may also be asked to show proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and accommodations for the duration of their stay.
After passing through immigration, passengers will collect their luggage and proceed to customs. Here, they must declare any goods exceeding the duty-free allowance and have their bags inspected if necessary.
Departing passengers will need to complete an exit form and present their passport along with their boarding pass. They may also be asked to prove they have paid any applicable taxes or fees.
After passing through immigration, departing passengers will go through security screening before arriving at the departure gate. Any items that do not meet security regulations will be confiscated.
Amenities:
- ATMs and currency exchanges are available throughout the airport.
- There are several dining options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in all public areas of the airport.
- There are several shops and duty-free stores for travelers to browse.
- Sanitizer dispensers are located throughout the airport for hygiene purposes.
- The airport offers baggage storage facilities and luggage wrapping services.
- Travelers can enjoy a massage or a visit to the spa before their flight.
- There are lounges available for passengers with certain airline memberships or credit cards.
Accessibility Services
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport strives to provide facilities and services that cater to passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport has wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, and restrooms. There are also designated parking spaces for those with disabilities.
Passengers can request wheelchair assistance from their airline before boarding their flight. Special assistance is also provided for blind or visually impaired passengers.
Service animals are permitted in the airport, and there are relief areas available for them as well. Staff members are trained to assist passengers with disabilities and are readily available for help.
Connecting Flights at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
Connecting flights at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport involve transferring from one flight to another in the airport’s designated connecting area. After disembarking your first flight, follow signs for “connecting flights” and proceed to the transit area.
Be sure to verify the gate number of your connecting flight. If you’re unsure, check the airport monitors or ask for assistance at an information desk. Ensure you have enough time between flights – at least two hours is recommended – to allow for unexpected delays and any potential security checks.
Keep your boarding pass and travel documents handy as you’ll need them to pass through security screenings for your connecting flight. Once you’ve cleared security, locate your gate and board your next flight as soon as possible.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After landing at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area. There, they will find baggage carousels labeled with flight numbers.
Passengers should check the monitors in the baggage claim area to confirm the correct carousel for their flight. If baggage is missing or damaged, passengers should report it to the airline’s baggage service office before leaving the airport.
The airline staff will complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and provide a copy to the passenger. The passenger should keep this document safe as it will be needed if they need to make a claim for lost or damaged baggage.
If luggage is not found within 21 days, passengers can file a claim with the airline’s central baggage department. The airport also has a Lost and Found office for items left behind in the terminal. Passengers can report lost property there or online through the airport’s website.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport, trained medical personnel are available 24/7 to provide assistance. The airport is equipped with a fully functional medical center that is staffed with doctors and nurses who can stabilize and treat patients.
The medical center is located on the ground floor of the airport terminal, near the baggage claim area. In addition to medical services, there are also emergency response teams and fire departments on standby to handle any situation that may arise.
The airport has a well-established emergency plan that outlines procedures for responding to various situations such as natural disasters, bomb threats, and terrorist attacks. The airport also conducts regular drills and training sessions to ensure that all personnel are prepared for any kind of emergency.
Overall, passengers can rest assured that San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport takes their safety and well-being seriously and has the necessary facilities and personnel to handle any emergency that may occur.
Hotel Accommodations
Travelers to San José can choose from a variety of hotels both within and near the Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Within the airport, there is the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, which offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and an outdoor pool.
Other nearby options include the Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela and the Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton San Jose Airport, both within 1.5 miles of the airport.
The Holiday Inn Express San Jose Airport and the La Asuncion Hotel & Suites are also popular choices, both located just over 2 miles away.
All of these hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport for their guests’ convenience.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and security screening.
– Preparing your travel documents, like passport, visa, and boarding pass, will help you avoid any hassle at the airport.
– If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or have mobility issues, consider requesting special assistance from the airline.
– Bring some local currency in case you need it for transportation, food, or other expenses.
– Take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi to stay connected with your loved ones or to do some last-minute work.
– San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport has several duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy while you wait for your flight.
– If you have a long layover, consider leaving the airport and exploring some of the nearby attractions, such as the Poás Volcano or the La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
– Be mindful of the airport’s rules and regulations, including those regarding liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on luggage, to avoid any delay or confiscation at security checkpoints.
Contact Information
Airport Information: (+506) 2437-2626
Lost and Found: (+506) 2437-2590
Immigration: (+506) 2437-2591
Customs: (+506) 2437-2592
Tourist Police: (+506) 2299-8040
Medical Services: (+506) 2437-2323
Parking: (+506) 2437-2550 ext. 108
VIP Lounge: (+506) 2437-2626 ext. 1102
Airports Near San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport
San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport is the primary airport serving the capital city of Costa Rica. However, there are several other airports in the vicinity that travelers may consider:
- Tobías Bolaños International Airport: Located just 6 miles (10 km) west of downtown San José, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and private aircraft. Transportation options to reach Tobías Bolaños include taxi and bus.
- Limon International Airport: Located on the eastern coast of Costa Rica, approximately 95 miles (152 km) east of San José, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and some international flights. Transportation options include rental car, taxi, and shuttle service.
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport: Located in Liberia, approximately 134 miles (216 km) northwest of San José, this airport serves the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. Transportation options to reach Liberia include bus, taxi, and rental car.
- Quepos La Managua Airport: Located approximately 50 miles (80 km) south of San José, this airport serves the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Transportation options include rental car, taxi, and shuttle service.
Travelers should note that transportation options and availability may vary by airport and time of day. It’s recommended to research ahead of time and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth travel experience.