Ingeniero Aeronáutico Ambrosio L.V. Taravella International Airport
Located 9 kilometres (5 nautical miles) north-northwest of the center of Córdoba, the Ingeniero Aeronáutico Ambrosio L.V. Taravella International Airport serves as a vital gateway to the Córdoba Province in Argentina. More commonly known by locals as Pajas Blancas, this public airport spans 1,020 hectares (2,520 acres) and is managed by the operator Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 S.A.
As Argentina's third-busiest airport, it follows only the two major hubs in Buenos Aires: Ministro Pistarini International Airport and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery. The facility plays a critical role in connecting the interior of the country with both domestic and international destinations.
Key Facts
- IATA Code: COR | ICAO Code: SACO
- Location: Córdoba, Córdoba Province, Argentina
- Elevation: 489 meters (1,604 feet) above mean sea level (AMSL)
- Passenger Volume: 2,901,691 total passengers (2017 statistics)
- Operator: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 S.A.
- Runways: Two runways (Concrete and Asphalt)
Infrastructure and Development
For many years, the airport operated as a jetport with limited capacity. While it could handle commercial jet aircraft, the original single-story terminal was insufficient for growing passenger numbers. To address this, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 invested in the expansion of internal Argentine airports to attract more airlines and increase traffic.
Between 2000 and 2002, the terminal underwent a significant transformation. Designed by the renowned local architect Mario Roberto Álvarez, the facility was expanded to include second and third floors. Following this completion, Aerolíneas Argentinas designated the airport as a primary hub for domestic flights.
Technical Specifications
The airport is equipped with night air traffic lighting to ensure 24-hour operational capability. However, pilots—particularly those operating light aircraft—are advised to remain vigilant regarding bird activity, as substantial populations inhabit the surrounding areas.
| Direction | Length (m) | Length (ft) | Surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18/36 | 3,200 | 10,498 | Concrete |
| 05/23 | 2,280 | 7,480 | Asphalt |
Airlines and Destinations
The airport facilitates a wide array of connections. Aerolíneas Argentinas maintains an extensive network, connecting Córdoba to major cities like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Salta, and Ushuaia, with international reaches to Rio de Janeiro and Punta Cana. Future expansions include a route to Miami starting June 5, 2026.
International connectivity is further bolstered by several global carriers:
- Air Europa: Provides service to Madrid.
- Avianca: Connects passengers to Bogotá.
- Copa Airlines: Offers flights to Panama City–Tocumen.
- LATAM: Operates routes to Santiago de Chile, Lima, and São Paulo–Guarulhos.
- Arajet: Provides service to Punta Cana.
Low-cost carriers such as Flybondi and JetSmart Argentina also operate from the airport, offering routes to various domestic cities and regional destinations in Brazil and Paraguay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the other name for this airport?
The airport is commonly referred to as Pajas Blancas.
Who operates the airport?
It is operated by the private company Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 S.A.
How busy is the airport compared to others in Argentina?
It is the third-busiest airport in Argentina, trailing only the two main airports located in Buenos Aires.
What are the IATA and ICAO codes for the airport?
The IATA code is COR and the ICAO code is SACO.
Are there any specific warnings for pilots landing here?
Pilots, especially those of light aircraft, are recommended to be cautious of the substantial number of birds in the nearby areas.