El Dorado International Airport, International aerodrome in Engativá, Bogotá, Colombia
El Dorado is an international aerodrome in western Bogotá with two parallel runways covering a large site in Engativá. The main building is divided into several sectors with waiting areas, counters, and passages linking domestic and international flights.
The aerodrome opened in 1959 and replaced the older Techo site as the country's new hub. Later expansions increased capacity and modernized facilities for growing international traffic.
The name comes from the mythical golden city and appears today in wall mosaics and sculptures that travelers can spot while walking through the terminal buildings. Shops and restaurants display products from all regions of Colombia, offering a first impression of the country's diversity.
The site lies roughly thirty minutes west of the city center and is reachable by several roads and public transport options. Inside the terminals, screens and signage help travelers navigate between arrival and departure areas.
The location at over 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level makes the aerodrome one of the highest operating hubs in the world and affects takeoff and landing procedures. This altitude creates thinner air, requiring pilots to use longer runway distances and special techniques.
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