Costa Rica's primary international gateway near San José.
Opened
1958
Location
Alajuela, Costa Rica
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO/MROC) is the busiest airport in Costa Rica and serves as the main entry point for international travelers visiting the country. Located in Alajuela, approximately 18 kilometers northwest of downtown San José, it handles the vast majority of Costa Rica's international air traffic.
The airport is named after Juan Santamaría, a Costa Rican national hero who died during the Battle of Rivas in 1856. It underwent significant expansion and modernization in the 2000s, including a new terminal and expanded capacity to accommodate growing tourism demand.
The airport serves as a hub for the national carrier Avianca Costa Rica (formerly LACSA) and connects Costa Rica to major cities across North America, South America, Europe, and the Caribbean. It consistently ranks among the busiest airports in Central America.
Terminals
The airport operates a single main passenger terminal with international and domestic sections, featuring multiple gates and a modernized airside concourse.
Getting to & from
Ground transport options include taxis, ride-hailing services, private shuttles, and rental cars, with the journey to downtown San José taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Airlines here
Major airlines serving SJO include American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Air Canada, and Iberia, among others.
Notable facts
- ›Named after Juan Santamaría, a Costa Rican national hero from the 1856 Battle of Rivas.
- ›Located in Alajuela province, not within San José city limits.
- ›Handles over 4 million passengers annually in peak years.
- ›Serves as the main hub for Avianca Costa Rica, formerly known as LACSA.
- ›One of the busiest airports in Central America by passenger volume.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
