Quetzaltenango, -AGN- The General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) announced the internationalization of Los Altos Airport in Quetzaltenango. With this categorization, it becomes the International Airport of the West, and the upgrade will benefit aerial transportation and the country’s economy.
The event took place at the air terminal facilities in the western part of the country. Yohana Rojas, a representative of the tourism sector, and Alejandro de León, the Deputy General Director of the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism, attended the event held at the facilities of the International Airport of the West. Francis Argueta, Director of Civil Aeronautics, and the Departmental Governor Jesús Cifuentes were also present.
The Director of Civil Aeronautics recently stated: “We are very excited about the aeronautical growth in our country; the beautiful department of Quetzaltenango has much to offer. Aviation is an impetus for any country’s economy. Turning Los Altos Airport into the International Airport of the West will open doors for economic and touristic growth to continue increasing in this region.”
Efforts
After several months of work, the Government of Guatemala, through the DGAC, successfully internationalized the airport in Quetzaltenango.
Since 2020, the Government has undertaken various actions to provide greater air connectivity and boost the country’s tourism sector.
The good relations established with Mexico served as a framework for expanding air connectivity with Quetzaltenango and increasing travel between both countries from this airport.
The internationalization process will benefit the western departments from Region 6:
- Sololá
- Totonicapán
- Quetzaltenango
- Suchitepéquez
- Retalhuleu
- San Marcos
The airport’s activation will significantly impact the economic development of these departments and facilitate the entry of local, regional, and international airlines.
Quetzaltenango has many touristic attractions. With this new categorization, it can now receive more visitors.
The Deputy Director of Inguat mentioned that the region could reach half a million tourists. Flights to and from Quetzaltenango from La Aurora International Airport are already in operation.
International Airports
The country will now have three international airports
- La Aurora airport, in the Capital city.
- Mundo Maya airport, in Petén.
- Airport of the West, in Quetzaltenango
Authorities announced plans to install lighting to enhance services at the West Airport. This upgrade will allow the runway to function 24 hours a day.
This project is part of a strategic plan to maintain the categorization of this air terminal.
