Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL)

San Salvador (San Luis Talpa), SV 🇸🇻 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

MSLP

IATA

SAL

Elevation

101 ft

Region

SV-PA

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: MSLP

Local Code: Not available

Location: 13.4409° N, -89.055702° E

Continent: NA

Type: Large International Airport

Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Recent traveler reviews for Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) generally indicate a positive experience, with many travelers praising its modern updates and efficient operations. The airport is often described as a pleasant and welcoming gateway to El Salvador, though some minor inconveniences are noted.

What Travelers Love
  • Modernization and Cleanliness: Travelers consistently highlight the airport's cleanliness and the positive impact of recent renovations, giving it a modern and inviting feel.
  • Efficiency and Quick Processing: Many reviews commend the speedy security processes, quick immigration clearance, and overall efficient flow through checkpoints. Some travelers reported getting through immigration and security in as little as 10-20 minutes.
  • Friendly Staff: The airport staff are frequently described as pleasant and friendly, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Variety of Amenities: Despite its medium size, the airport offers a good range of food options, including traditional Salvadoran cuisine and international chains, as well as duty-free shops and other retail. A VIP lounge is also available.
  • Strong WiFi: Travelers appreciate the availability of strong WiFi connections throughout the terminal.
Common Complaints
  • Multiple Security Checks: A recurring frustration for some travelers, especially those departing, is the need to go through two or more security filters, including one after immigration and another before the final waiting room or gate. This can be confusing and lead to delays.
  • Limited Amenities Post-Security: While food options are available, some travelers note a lack of variety in restaurants after the first security filter. There are also reports of no restrooms located inside the secure gate areas, requiring passengers to use facilities before passing through.
  • Lack of Public Transportation to City: A notable complaint is the absence of a dedicated shuttle line or efficient public transport from the airport to San Salvador, leaving taxis as the primary option.
  • Potential for Slow Immigration/Security at Peak Times: While generally efficient, some travelers mention that security and immigration can be slow during peak hours or when multiple international flights arrive simultaneously, potentially extending wait times to up to 2 hours.

Overall, Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport is largely viewed as a well-managed and improving facility, praised for its cleanliness, efficiency, and friendly service, making for a generally positive travel experience for most. Travelers should be prepared for multiple security checks and consider private transfer options for onward travel.

Generated False weeks ago
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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

Current Weather Conditions

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Airport Routes

Popular Flight Routes
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Top Airlines

Operating at Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Avianca
AVA / AV
25 1328 25 Dec 23, 2025
23 664 23 Dec 23, 2025
SalamAir
OMS / OV
9 295 9 Dec 23, 2025
9 240 9 Dec 10, 2025
United
UAL / UA
6 162 6 Dec 11, 2025
9 142 9 Dec 11, 2025
1 97 1 Dec 7, 2025
3 61 3 Nov 24, 2025
1 49 1 Dec 9, 2025
2 42 2 Dec 9, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
07/25 10500 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted
18/36 2625 ft 75 ft ASP Closed

Type Description Frequency
APP APP 119.9 MHz
ATIS ATIS 127.6 MHz
CLD CLNC DEL 121.25 MHz
GND GND 121.7 MHz
RDO RDO 126.9 MHz
TWR TWR 118.0 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
CAT El Salvador VOR-DME 117500 kHz
LAN Amatecampo NDB 331 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

The airport has an exclusive, authorized taxi service provider, Taxis ACACYA, known for safety and reliability. Their booth is located just outside the arrivals hall. Fares to major destinations like San Salvador are typically fixed; confirm the price at the dispatch booth before your trip. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, with designated pick-up areas.

Rental Cars

Several major international and local car rental agencies operate at the airport, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Their service counters are conveniently located inside the main arrivals hall. It is highly recommended to book your vehicle in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure better rates and ensure availability.

Public Transportation

The most economical option is the public bus. Route 138 (and the air-conditioned 138-A 'especial') connects the airport to the city of San Salvador. This option is significantly cheaper but also slower, can be crowded, and may not be ideal for travelers with a lot of luggage. The bus stop is located across the parking lot from the terminal.

Nearby Airports

Ilopango International Airport
ILS • MSSS
San Salvador, SV
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~29 km away
Ilopango International Airport
ILS • MSSS
San Salvador, SV
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~29 km away
Las Cachas Airport
SV-0002
Cangrejera, SV
Small Airport
~15 km away
Las Mesas Airport
MSLM
Las Mesas, SV
Small Airport
~16 km away
Rio Sucio Highway Airstrip
SV-0001
El Botoncillal, SV
Small Airport
~50 km away
Ceiba Doblada Airport
MSCD
Ceiba Doblada, SV
Small Airport
~55 km away
El Platanar Airport
MSPT
Suchitoto, SV
Small Airport
~56 km away
Puerto El Triunfo Airport
SV-0006
Puerto El Triunfo, SV
Small Airport
~59 km away
La Carrera Airport
MSCR
Jiquilisco, SV
Small Airport
~59 km away
Espiritu Santo Airport
MSES
Espíritu Santo, SV
Small Airport
~60 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.