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The Finance Committee of the Legislative Assembly issued a favorable opinion to ratify a US$195 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the modernization of the Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport. The goal is to improve air connectivity, expand infrastructure, and strengthen passenger services.
The financing was authorized by the Legislature on december 18, 2025, and signed on january 13, 2026, with the multilateral organization. According to the Ministry of Finance, the loan will have a 23-year repayment term and will allow for the implementation of an ambitious expansion and improvement plan for the country’s main air terminal, operated by the Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (CEPA).
Terminal expansion and new construction
Among the projects to be financed with the loan funds is the second phase of the passenger terminal expansion, incorporating infrastructure with universal accessibility for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. The expansion of the aircraft apron and the construction of new taxiways are also planned, which will optimize air operations.
In addition, the plan includes the construction of a parking garage and a specialized building for rescue and fire services, strengthening the airport’s security and operational capacity.
More lounges, more jet bridges, and greater air capacity
With the project’s completion, the airport will have six new waiting lounges, designed with wide corridors and natural lighting to enhance the traveler’s experience. Six new jet bridges will also be installed, bringing the total to 25, facilitating boarding and disembarking operations.
The apron expansion will allow for the parking of three additional aircraft, including wide-body planes, opening the possibility of increasing routes, frequencies, and international destinations from El Salvador.
Impact on tourism and the economy
The deputy director General of the Budget at the Ministry of Finance, Michelle Arce, emphasized that the project aims to guarantee high-quality airport services in the face of growing passenger demand. According to the official, the modernization of the airport infrastructure will contribute to boosting tourism, trade, and the country’s economic activity, consolidating El Salvador as a regional connectivity hub.
If the full legislature ratifies the bill, the US$195 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will become one of the main drivers of the expansion of the Aeropuerto Internacional Óscar Arnulfo Romero, strengthening its operational capacity and competitiveness in the region.
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