San Cristóbal Airport (SCY)

San Cristóbal Airport (IATA: SCY, ICAO: SEST) is one of two primary airports serving Ecuador's Galápagos Islands and is the main air gateway to San Cristóbal Island. Located on the outskirts of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital of the Galápagos, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting the island to mainland Ecuador, supporting both the vital tourism industry and the needs of the local population. It provides essential access for visitors beginning their island explorations and serves as a logistical hub for supplies and residents.

The airport's history is linked to the strategic importance of the Galápagos during World War II, with its origins tracing back to a U.S. military airstrip built on the island. After the war, the facility was transferred to the government of Ecuador and subsequently developed into the modern civilian airport it is today. Its continued operation is fundamental to the managed growth of tourism and the conservation efforts that depend on reliable transportation and access to the remote archipelago.

San Cristóbal Airport is exceptionally convenient due to its proximity to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It is located just a few minutes' drive from the town center, and many accommodations are within a 1-2 kilometer (about 1 mile) radius, making it technically walkable for travelers with light luggage. Taxis, typically white pickup trucks known as "camionetas," are readily available outside the terminal and provide a quick, inexpensive ride to any point in the town.

Operations at SCY are exclusively domestic, with no direct international flights. All travelers must first fly into Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) on the mainland to connect to the Galápagos. The primary carriers serving the airport are Avianca Ecuador and LATAM Ecuador, which offer daily flights. The airport handles a significant flow of tourists, though its overall passenger volume is modest compared to major mainland airports.

Reflecting its small scale, the airport features a single, functional terminal with basic amenities. Facilities include airline check-in counters, a security screening area, and a simple baggage claim. After security, the departure lounge has seating, limited restroom facilities, and a few small shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and beverages. There are no full-service restaurants or dedicated airline lounges.

For travelers, it is advisable to arrive 90 minutes to two hours prior to departure to allow ample time for check-in and security. It is essential to note that the mandatory Galápagos Transit Control Card (TCT) and National Park entrance fee must be processed and paid for at a dedicated counter at the Quito or Guayaquil airport *before* checking in for the flight to San Cristóbal. Upon arrival at SCY, all luggage is screened as part of the islands' biosecurity protocols to protect the unique ecosystem.