The expansion of the Santa Marta Airport is crucial for the tourist and economic development of the region.
The Oriente Airports Concession SAS has announced an ambitious project to expand the land infrastructure of the ‘Simón Bolívar’ airport in Santa Marta, with the aim of moving 6 million passengers in the medium term.
The projected investment amounts to 76 billion pesos and the work schedule will cover 20 months, with completion scheduled for April 2026.
Details of the Santa Marta Airport Expansion Project
The airport’s national hall will be expanded from 1,200 to 3,600 square meters, tripling its current capacity. This expansion will allow greater comfort and improve the passenger experience.
Improvements in the filter and access control system
Significant improvements will be implemented in the filter system and access control, increasing efficiency and security at the airport.
Food court expansion
The food area at the Santa Marta Airport will be expanded to include new brands that will enhance the destination of Santa Marta. This expansion seeks to offer greater gastronomic variety to travelers.
Importance of the project for the region
The president of the Magdalena Inter-Union Committee, Javier Quintero Fragoso, emphasized the importance of this expansion for the air connectivity of Santa Marta. The doubling of the airport’s capacity, going from 3 million to 6 million passengers, is crucial for the tourist and economic development of the region.
Necessary Authorizations and Licenses
ANI Authorization
The Santa Marta Airport expansion project is awaiting authorization from the National Infrastructure Agency (ANI). This authorization is vital for the start of the works and the implementation of the projected schedule.
Environmental license
The need for an environmental license for the expansion of the airport runway is being evaluated. This license, issued by the National Environmental License Authority (ANLA), is essential for the completion of the project.
Key Meetings and Pending Decisions
In a recent meeting of the Magdalena Inter-Union Committee (CIMAG) with representatives of the Aeropuertos de Oriente SAS Concession, the air connectivity of Santa Marta and the importance of the ANI decision regarding the auditor of the expansion works was discussed. It is expected that the appointment of the auditor will be made on July 17 to begin the projected schedule.
Long term impact
The expansion of the Santa Marta ‘Simón Bolívar’ Airport will not only improve the infrastructure and services offered, but will also boost the economic and tourist growth of Santa Marta. The investment and planned improvements will guarantee greater comfort and a more efficient and safer experience for all passengers.
This expansion of the ‘Simón Bolívar’ airport represents a significant step into the future for Santa Marta, consolidating its position as a premier tourist and business destination in Colombia. With the completion of the project in 2026, the airport is expected to be fully equipped to handle the increase in passengers and offer high-quality services.
SEE: New Simón Bolívar airport will receive 6 million passengers a year
