San Salvador Airport: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Monsenor Oscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) – named after the archbishop – is El Salvador’s main gateway. If you’re heading to Central America, there’s a good chance you’ll pass through here. Let me break down what to expect.

Some Background

The airport opened in January 1980, originally called Comalapa International. They renamed it after Archbishop Romero later – he’s a pretty significant figure in El Salvador’s history. Over the years, they’ve expanded and modernized to keep up with growing traffic.

What’s Inside

Retail stores with duty-free shopping. Dining options from fast food to coffee shops to actual sit-down restaurants. Currency exchange counters if you need colones. ATMs scattered throughout. Free Wi-Fi that actually works most of the time.

• Currency exchange available at multiple spots
• ATMs easy to find
• Wi-Fi is free – log in and you’re good

Getting Out of the Airport

A few options here:

• Taxis: Licensed ones wait outside arrivals. Negotiate the fare or make sure they use the meter. Standard advice for anywhere really.
• Shuttles: Some hotels offer them free for guests. Check with your hotel ahead of time.
• Rental cars: Major companies operate on-site. Book in advance if you can – better selection and sometimes better prices.

Who Flies Here

Avianca uses SAL as a hub, so tons of connections throughout the Americas. American Airlines, Delta, Copa all have routes. You can get direct flights to Miami, LA, Bogota, and plenty of other spots. Pretty well connected for the region.

Customs and Immigration

Have your passport ready. Visa if you need one. The process is usually smooth, but peak times can mean longer lines. Random inspections happen – just part of international travel. Nothing to worry about if your paperwork’s in order.

Security

Standard international airport security. Metal detectors, bag scans, the whole routine. Get there at least two hours before international flights. Gives you buffer time and reduces stress.

Tips That Actually Help

• Check flight status before you leave for the airport – delays happen
• Keep travel documents accessible, not buried in your bag
• Spanish is the main language but English is common in tourist areas
• Learning a few Spanish phrases won’t hurt though

What’s Nearby

If you’ve got time before or after your flight:

• Costa del Sol: Beach area about 30 minutes away. Nice for killing a few hours.
• San Salvador city: The capital is roughly 45 minutes out. Museums, restaurants, historical stuff.
• San Vicente Volcano: Further trip but worth it for hikers. Active volcano with great views.

Looking Ahead

The airport is positioning itself for growth. Air travel demand in Central America is increasing, and SAL wants to be a regional hub. Infrastructure investments are planned. They’re thinking long-term.

For a Central American airport, it’s pretty well run. Not massive, not fancy, but functional and improving. Gets the job done.