The Governor of Mendoza, Alfredo Cornejo, has announced a major refurbishment project for the passenger terminal at El Plumerillo International Airport in the provincial capital. The $10 million investment aims to enhance the passenger experience and adapt the terminal to current operational demands.
The project will include the construction of a new building, expansion of boarding areas, and the addition of more boarding gates, allowing the airport to accommodate up to six aircraft simultaneously during peak hours, according to an official government statement.
Passenger Traffic and Airport Ranking
In 2024, El Plumerillo handled 2.29 million passengers, reflecting a 5% decrease compared to 2023.
- International traffic grew by 19%, reaching 597,000 passengers.
- Domestic traffic declined by 11%, totaling 1.7 million passengers.
Despite the drop, El Plumerillo remained Argentina’s fifth busiest airport, following:
- Jorge Newbery Airport (Aeroparque) – Buenos Aires
- Ezeiza International Airport – Buenos Aires
- Córdoba International Airport
- Bariloche International Airport
Official Announcement and Project Details
The official announcement was made at Jorge Newbery Airport in Buenos Aires, where Governor Cornejo met with:
- Daniel Ketchibachian, CEO of Aeropuertos Argentina 2000
- Sergio Rinaldo, General Manager of the Western Business Unit
- Gabriela Testa, President of Ente Mendoza Turismo (Emetur)
- Francisco Lo Presti, Mayor of Las Heras
While detailed project plans will be presented next week in Mendoza, some key aspects have been revealed.
Expansion and Terminal Upgrades
According to Gabriela Testa, the project includes the construction of a new 1,400-square-meter building in the southern sector of the airport. This facility will house Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 offices and other airport control agencies, freeing up 2,100 square meters in the existing terminal for passenger services.
The redesign will introduce:
- Two new international departure lounges
- Three jet bridge gates (contact gates)
- Three remote boarding gates
- Capacity for simultaneous operation of six aircraft
Additionally, the upper level of the terminal will be expanded to include:
- More commercial and dining outlets to accommodate growing passenger traffic
- A new VIP lounge with panoramic views of the Andes, offering a premium experience for travelers
San Rafael Airport Improvements
During the meeting, Mendoza government officials also confirmed that renovations at San Rafael Airport are ongoing. However, no further details on the project’s progress were provided.
Looking Ahead
With these modernization efforts, Mendoza aims to enhance its airport infrastructure, boost international connectivity, and improve overall passenger experience, reinforcing its role as a key travel hub in Argentina.
AUTOR
Contando la aviación desde marzo del año 2000. Fundador y Managing Editor de Aviacionline.
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