Juan Santamaría International Airport, International airport in Río Segundo, Costa Rica
Juan Santamaría International Airport is the main air gateway to Costa Rica, located in Río Segundo within Alajuela Canton. The complex includes two separate areas for domestic flights and for connections to North and South America as well as Europe.
The facility began operations on May 2, 1958, replacing the old terminal in the capital. The location in downtown San José was later converted into Parque La Sabana.
The facility honors a drummer who fought against foreign troops in 1856 and today represents national independence. Travelers see references to this historical figure throughout the terminal, whose face appears on local banknotes.
Licensed taxis wait outside the arrival halls, and several bus lines connect the terminal with San José around 20 kilometers away. The entire area is accessible for wheelchair users, with wide corridors and adapted facilities.
The single runway handles both large passenger aircraft and cargo planes, remaining open around the clock. Many travelers notice the dense coffee plantations surrounding the grounds, clearly visible during landing approach.
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