Business Opportunities in Airport Infrastructure – Central America
Bron:
Nederlandse ambassade in San JoséAir connectivity in Central America is rapidly expanding due to strong tourism growth, regional trade development, and strategic interest in improving logistics and mobility. Governments are prioritizing investments in modernizing existing airports, building new terminals, and expanding cargo capabilities. Airport infrastructure is seen as key to enabling regional integration, economic competitiveness, and climate-resilient mobility.
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in San José has identified several large-scale airport development projects in Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Guatemala. These projects include new passenger terminals, cargo hubs, and runway expansions. Dutch companies can find opportunities in design, sustainability, automation, and logistics planning.
But this is more than just numbers and projects. At its heart, this is about connecting people, building more resilient economies, and shaping a more sustainable future. As Dutch companies, you bring not only cutting-edge solutions in smart airport systems, logistics, and sustainable engineering—but a commitment to innovation that aligns perfectly with what Central America needs right now.
Developments
With a population of 48 million and access to both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, this dynamic region is rapidly modernizing its airport infrastructure to meet growing demands. El Salvador welcomed a record 3.9 million tourists in 2024, marking a 17% increase over 2023, driven largely by U.S. visitors and contributing significantly to GDP. Costa Rica recorded 2.66 million air arrivals in 2024, the highest in 16 years and up 7.7% from 2023. Guatemala saw close to 2.7 million visitors in 2024, fueled by attractions like its volcanoes and heritage sites.
Central America’s travel and tourism market is projected to grow at a 5.4% CAGR between 2025–2029. Infrastructure is adapting accordingly: governments are launching modernization master plans and seeking international partners for engineering, digital, and sustainability expertise. PPPs and concession models are common, supported by regional and international financial institutions.
Opportunities for Dutch Companies
Costa Rica
- Juan Santamaría International Airport Master Plan: $390 million total over 7 years. Includes terminal expansion (+10,000 m²), remote aircraft platform (35,000 m²), and automated baggage system. The expanded terminal alone will cost $62.2 million and handle 6.5 million passengers by 2027.
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport Expansion: $100 million to expand runway, maneuvering areas, and cargo capacity. Civil Aviation has yet selected a firm to finalize the master plan.
- Orotina International Airport – First Stage: A revived $500 million project for a new international airport west of San José. Initial phase involves one runway and modular terminal development; construction is estimated to take 10–15 years, with feasibility and transport studies underway.
For whom does this currently represent an opportunity?
Airport Engineering firms, airport master planners, baggage system providers, feasibility consultants, sustainability consultants with airport-sector experience.
Why Dutch businesses?
Dutch companies such as Royal HaskoningDHV and NACO (Netherlands Airport Consultants) are internationally recognized for airport planning, sustainable infrastructure design, and terminal logistics. Dutch know-how in circular construction, mobility systems, and climate-adaptive infrastructure makes them ideal partners in future-proofing Costa Rica’s aviation sector.
El Salvador
- Pacific International Airport: $328 million greenfield project for a new terminal (3 million passenger capacity) and 2,400m runway. Permits approved and earthworks underway.
- San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez Airport – Cargo Terminal: $100 million expansion and construction in two phases. Includes logistics automation, 73,000-ton annual capacity.
For whom does this currently represent an opportunity?
Terminal designers, runway engineers, logistics tech firms, and PPP infrastructure investors.
Why Dutch businesses?
Dutch firms are known for integrating sustainable architecture with smart logistics and scalable infrastructure. Their digital design expertise and experience working in concession-based airport projects support El Salvador’s long-term aviation goals.
Guatemala
- La Aurora International Airport Modernization: $158 million PPP project in BOT format. Includes expansion of taxiways, terminals, hangars, perimeter security, and domestic aerodromes in Mundo Maya, Puerto Barrios, and Retalhuleu. | Prequalification terms have been authorized by ANADIE, publication is expected soon. | The Ministry of Communications, Infrastructure, and Housing (CIV) will lead implementation | aim for 4.5 million passengers per year.
For whom does this currently represent an opportunity?
Airport engineering firms, hangar constructors, terminal designers, and digital security system providers.
Why Dutch businesses?
Dutch companies offer strong capabilities in efficient design, digital airside systems, and security architecture. Their ability to deliver modular, environmentally responsible, and future-ready infrastructure is well-suited to Guatemala’s airport plans.
More Information
Here procurement pages per country and important tender news by BCIE.
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Country |
Procurement Platform / Source |
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Costa Rica |
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Honduras |
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Guatemala |
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Nicaragua |
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Regional (CA) |
Here to have an idea of the institutions involved in each country:
Central American Airport Network
Guatemala
- Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC)
- Aeropuerto Internacional La Aurora (AILA)
- Aeropuerto Internacional Mundo Maya
- Aeropuerto de Puerto Barrios
- Agencia Nacional de Alianzas para el Desarrollo de Infraestructura Económica (ANADIE)
- Ministerio de Comunicaciones, Infraestructura y Vivienda (CIV)
Costa Rica
- Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC)
- Ministry of Public Works and Transport ( MOPT )
- Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría (SJO)
- Aeropuerto Internacional Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR)
- Aeropuerto Internacional Tobías Bolaños (SYQ)
- Aeropuerto Internacional Limón
El Salvador
- Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC)
- Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (CEPA) – manages airport operations
- Aeropuerto Internacional de El Salvador “San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez”
- Aeropuerto Internacional de Ilopango
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in San José, together with consulates in the region, actively monitors developments in airport infrastructure. We assist Dutch businesses by offering tailored market advice, connecting with stakeholders, and supporting matchmaking with PPP partners.
Contact
Interested in exploring airport infrastructure projects in Central America?
Hans E. Buhrs, MBA
Senior Officer, Economic Affairs
Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for Central America
hans.buhrs@minbuza.nl | +506 8427 8987
www.nederlandwereldwijd.nl/