Tobí­as Bolaños Airport

Tobías Bolaños Palma International Airport (IATA code: SYQ) is the secondary airfield serving the Greater Metropolitan Area of San José, following Juan Santamaría International Airport. It operates as the nation's primary hub for general aviation, corporate flights, flight training schools, and domestic and regional charter operations.

Official Website: dgac.go.cr

Phone: +506 2232 2820 / +506 2106 9105

Social Media:

Terminals

The airport features a single-story passenger terminal building for domestic and international charter flights, equipped with a check-in lobby, basic border control checkpoints, and a boarding lounge. The airport operates primarily on a daytime schedule (approximately 06:00 to 18:00) and closes at night once daily operations conclude.

Information Points

There is no dedicated central tourist information desk; passenger assistance and operational inquiries are handled directly at the DGAC administrative offices and at individual charter operator counters.

The airport is located about 8 km from downtown San José, with an estimated travel time of 15 to 25 minutes.

Buses

Autotransportes Pavas S.A. operates Route No. 14 (branch San José – Pavas – Boulevard – Aeropuerto Tobías Bolaños), connecting the terminal vicinity with downtown San José. The regular fare set by ARESEP is ₡480 each way, and free of charge (₡0) for senior citizens.

Rates updated as of October 18, 2026.

Taxis

Taxis are available outside the passenger terminal building for direct transportation across the Greater Metropolitan Area.

Ride-Hailing Apps

Uber operates pickups and drop-offs directly at the airport access area.

Several car rental companies provide service to passengers arriving at Pavas terminal:

Rental Agencies

• Economy Rent a Car: Operates a dedicated branch for Tobías Bolaños Airport (Pavas), open daily from 06:00 to 19:00.
• Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Provides vehicle delivery and pick-up services for flights operating at this airfield.
• Other agencies: Providers such as NU Car and Sixt arrange vehicle delivery and collection through advance reservation.

Schedules updated as of October 18, 2026.

Due to its focus on general aviation and charter services, passenger amenities at the terminal are basic:

Dining

A cafeteria service and light snacks are available in the terminal building lobby and hangar areas.

Banking and Connectivity

• ATMs and Banks: The terminal does not have bank branches or ATMs in the public hall.
• Wi-Fi: Wireless internet access is available in areas of the terminal building.

Shopping and Duty-Free

There are no duty-free shops at the terminal.

Baggage Services

The airport does not provide luggage storage lockers or left-luggage facilities.

Other Services

Lost property inquiries should be filed directly with DGAC administrative offices or with the corresponding airline operator. There is no pharmacy within the airport grounds.

Parking Areas

An open-air surface parking lot is situated directly in front of the terminal building, within immediate walking distance of check-in and arrival halls.

Infrastructure and Accessibility

The single-level terminal is built entirely at ground level, facilitating wheelchair access from curbside drop-off to the apron.

Requesting Special Assistance

Passengers with reduced mobility must arrange assistance directly with their charter operator or air taxi provider at least 48 hours prior to departure, as boarding of light aircraft is conducted via open ramp.

On-Site Accommodation

There are no hotels or sleep cabins inside the airport grounds.

Nearby Hotels

• Crowne Plaza San José La Sabana: Located about 7.1 km away, near La Sabana Metropolitan Park.
• Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu: Located approximately 8 km away, in the Escazú district.
• Real InterContinental at Multiplaza Mall: Situated roughly 8.5 km away in the Escazú commercial area.
• Hyatt Place San José / Pinares: Located 16 km east of the capital.