The San Oscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez International Airport has kicked off 2026 with historic momentum, marking a 9.5% increase in passenger traffic during the first quarter. According to the Autonomous Executive Port Commission (CEPA), the terminal handled over 1.37 million travelers between January and March, surpassing the 1.25 million recorded during the same period last year. This surge reflects the country’s growing appeal as a regional hub and a premier travel destination in Central America.
January emerged as the busiest month of the quarter, fueled largely by visitors extending their year-end holiday stays. The Ministry of Tourism noted that the sustained influx was also bolstered by high-profile international events, including a five-night residency by Colombian superstar Shakira and the Ironman 70.3 triathlon. These events drew thousands of attendees and athletes from more than twenty countries, providing a significant boost to arrival and transit figures.
The statistical breakdown highlights a particularly strong trend in departures, which saw a robust 18.7% year-over-year growth. While arrivals remained steady with a slight increase, the airport also functioned as a vital node for connecting travelers, seeing double-digit growth in transfer passengers. In total, the facility managed over 13,000 flight operations during the three-month window, maintaining high efficiency despite the increased volume.
Beyond passenger movement, the airport’s cargo terminal also demonstrated the nation’s commercial vitality, processing over 9.7 million kilograms of goods. Export activities accounted for 3.7 million kilograms, while imports reached 5.9 million, showcasing a balanced flow of trade. This operational success underscores the strategic investments made into the airport’s infrastructure to accommodate both tourism and global logistics.
Government officials believe this upward trajectory is a direct result of El Salvador’s improved international image and its capacity to host world-class entertainment and sporting events. The flow of tourists at the start of the year was still influenced by those arriving for the holidays, coupled with major international events, the Ministry of Tourism reported. As the year progresses, the terminal is expected to continue breaking records as more travelers choose El Salvador as their primary destination.