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The McDonald’s franchise location at the Aeropuerto Internacional de El Salvador San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez has been awarded the “Family Friendly” seal. It is the first restaurant at the airport to receive this distinction, which recognizes compliance with standards for accessibility, safety, quality, and service all aimed at fostering the well-being and positive experience of both salvadoran and international families.
With this accreditation, the restaurant joins a network of 51 establishments, spaces, events, and experiences that are part of an initiative promoted by First Lady Gabriela de Bukele. The initiative seeks to foster cultural, tourism, and recreational options tailored to the needs of people of all ages.
“Awarding the ‘Family Friendly’ seal to McDonald’s recognizes a commitment that has long been part of its identity: providing quality, approachable, and hospitable experiences, ensuring that children, parents, and every family member feel comfortable, safe, and welcome while enjoying El Salvador as a family”, said Marcella Quintanilla, an Early Childhood Specialist at the Instituto Crecer Juntos.
To grant the seal, the Instituto Crecer Juntos evaluated the establishment, which operates under a “small store” format a design intended for compact, high-traffic areas like airports. The criteria met by this location include offering a children’s menu, maintaining a first-aid kit and fire extinguishers, utilizing video surveillance and security systems, providing Wi-Fi, and operating from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Furthermore, families visiting the restaurant can take advantage of the airport’s broader facilities and services, which include universal-design ramps, wheelchairs, baby-changing stations, nursing rooms, and play areas where children can rest or play while waiting for their flights.
“At McDonald’s, families have always been part of our core identity. Receiving the ‘Family Friendly’ seal and becoming the first restaurant in our category to earn this certification fills us with pride. This is especially meaningful given the setting: an airport, a place where, every single day, stories of reunions, farewells, and new adventures unfold. This recognition inspires us to continue creating welcoming spaces and experiences that accompany families during their special moments”, explained Orquídea Cáceres, Marketing manager for McDonald’s El Salvador.
The “Family Friendly” certification allows businesses to differentiate themselves in the market and expand their reach both nationally and internationally. Beyond demonstrating a commitment to family well-being, it strengthens consumer trust and helps attract more visitors and new audiences.
“At McDonald’s, we know that a special experience is built through both welcoming spaces and the people who make our customers feel at home. Our team members, through their dedication, kindness, and commitment to service help families enjoy pleasant moments every single day. This recognition is also a source of pride for our teams, as it reflects the care they put into every detail to ensure that everyone feels welcome at McDonald’s”, explained Claudia Guzmán, Human Capital Manager at McDonald’s El Salvador.
The McDonald’s location at El Salvador International Airport opened to the public on august 21, 2026, becoming the 29th branch in the country. Situated near Gate 2 of the airport terminal, it features modern kitchen technology, digital self-ordering kiosks, and a “Grab and Go” area to expedite service for travelers.
With the support of UN Tourism, the Government of El Salvador developed an online course that has trained more than 2,500 individuals from the public and private sectors on how to cater to families and adapt spaces for all age groups.
To date, 51 establishments, venues, services, and events, including parks, museums, theaters, restaurants, and tourist sites have earned the “Family Friendly” certification. These spaces allow families to spend quality time together, strengthen their emotional bonds, foster child development, and enhance emotional well-being.
In this way, the strategy promotes a distinct cultural practice: experiencing life and enjoying time together as a family.
To learn about the spaces, establishments, events, and services that hold the “Family Friendly” seal as well as the requirements for obtaining it you can visit the official website: https://familyfriendlyelsalvador.com/
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