Argentina Announces $58 Million Expansion of Tucumán’s Benjamín Matienzo International Airport
In a ceremony held this morning in Tucumán, Aeropuertos Argentina announced a major expansion and renovation project for Benjamín Matienzo International Airport, the main gateway to the province’s capital.
The $58 million investment will expand the passenger terminal from 8,600 m² to 10,000 m² and introduce significant infrastructure improvements, including:
- Two new jet bridges
- 14 additional check-in counters
- Two new dining areas
- Expansion from two to five simultaneous boarding gates
- Upgraded baggage claim and departure hall
The project also includes a new baggage handling system with advanced weighing, injection, collection, and security controls. Additional upgrades feature new offices for authorities, expanded immigration areas, redesigned commercial spaces, and modifications to the apron layout to accommodate the expanded terminal.
Doubling Passenger Capacity
With these enhancements, the airport will be able to handle 1.5 million passengers annually—twice the 723,000 travelers recorded in 2024.
"In 2024, we worked hard to plan these upgrades, and launching construction in 2025 is a significant milestone given Tucumán's importance to the region. We congratulate the people of Tucumán, who are traveling more and making this project possible," said Daniel Ketchibachian, CEO of Aeropuertos Argentina, the airport’s concessionaire.
Ketchibachian also noted that January set a passenger record for the company, with 4.2 million travelers across its network of 35 Argentine airports. Over the past five years, more than $1 billion has been invested in airport infrastructure nationwide.
Government Supports Open Skies Policy
Franco Mogetta, Argentina’s Undersecretary of Transport, emphasized that the expansion aligns with Tucumán’s growing regional importance.
"Today, we are adapting the airport to meet its strategic role in the region," he stated. He also highlighted Argentina’s open skies policy, which has attracted new airlines and ground service providers to the country.
Mogetta further pointed out that passenger traffic has been breaking records since November 2024, adding: "This growth is happening without subsidies or market-distorting policies—just real, sustainable expansion."
"Today, we are taking the first step toward ensuring Tucumán is better connected—not only within Argentina but also with the world," he concluded.
Efficient, Sustainable Design
Lucas Pérez Monsalvo, Director of Infrastructure at Aeropuertos Argentina, provided further details on the efficient and sustainable design of the new terminal.
By reorganizing spaces, the airport will double its capacity while adding only 1,400 m² of new covered area. The improvements will allow the airport to increase simultaneous flight operations from three to five by optimizing the pre-boarding lounge layout.
The project prioritizes sustainability, incorporating:
- 100% accessibility
- Locally sourced materials, including brick elements designed to filter sunlight
- A rainwater collection system for irrigation and cleaning
With these enhancements, Tucumán’s Benjamín Matienzo International Airport is set to become a more modern, efficient, and sustainable hub, supporting regional growth and increased connectivity.
AUTOR
Contando la aviación desde marzo del año 2000. Fundador y Managing Editor de Aviacionline.
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