Tips, Recommendations, and Precautions for Passengers

Ministro Pistarini International Airport in Ezeiza is Argentina’s main hub for international air connections, combining modern facilities with areas still in need of improvement. Whether you're traveling for the first time or you’re a frequent flyer, here you’ll find tips and recommendations to make your experience as smooth as possible.

Transportation and arriving at the airport

Plan your arrival

It is crucial to account for travel time. Services like Manuel Tienda León are reliable but may experience delays, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. For added convenience, taxis and private transfers are good alternatives, but be sure to check the fares in advance. Apps like Uber and Cabify offer economical options, but confirm their real-time availability.

Parking

If you are driving, Ezeiza offers covered and uncovered parking options with hourly and daily rates. However, uncovered areas may flood during rainy days, and the space availability signaling system doesn’t always work efficiently. The first 10 minutes in the arrivals area are free, but exceeding this time is common due to traffic congestion. If you need to park for several days, book in advance to secure your spot.

Check-in and immigration

Arrive at least three hours before your international flight. Automatic immigration machines and security controls have improved process efficiency, although lines can be long during busy hours.

Families and special passengers

Ezeiza offers personalized assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, which should be requested at least 48 hours in advance. For passengers on the autism spectrum, VIP lounges are ideal due to their calm atmosphere. Families with small children can take advantage of designated areas, although these are limited. Pregnant women and elderly passengers are entitled to priority check-in, so be sure to request it at the airline counter. For nursing mothers, check for designated rooms, as they are not available in all terminals.

The Express Passport, available for Argentine citizens, allows passports to be issued in approximately 2 to 4 hours in emergencies. To use this service, visit the Renaper stand in the international terminal with your DNI and ticket.

During your stay at the airport

Exclusive services

The Meet and Greet service is ideal for those needing personalized assistance with check-in, immigration, and internal transportation. It’s particularly valuable for elderly passengers, first-time travelers, or unaccompanied minors requiring help from check-in to the boarding gate. This service, offered by Aeropuertos VIP Club and some airlines, includes assistance with immigration, security, and baggage collection, with prices ranging between $70 and $150 USD.

Dining and shopping

Ezeiza has a selection of dining options such as McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Havanna, though prices tend to be high and the variety limited. Bringing your own snacks can be an economical alternative. As for shopping, the duty-free offers interesting products, but some travelers report unclear promotions and long lines. If you plan to shop, consider doing so at the arrivals duty-free, which is often less crowded.

Wi-Fi and charging stations

The airport offers free Wi-Fi, but the connection can be slow during peak hours. Charging points for devices are limited, so carrying a portable charger is a good idea to keep your devices powered.

Recommendations for long waits

Nearby hotels

For flights at inconvenient times, consider staying at nearby accommodations like Holiday Inn Ezeiza, which offers free transfers and comfortable rooms. Budget alternatives include inns in towns like Monte Grande, accessible via private transport.

Entertainment and services

If you have a long layover, VIP lounges are an excellent option to rest. While not all terminals have family areas or entertainment zones, bringing a book, downloading movies to your device, or using the Wi-Fi connection can make the wait more bearable.

Family areas and nursing rooms

Check with the information desks if you need a nursing room or a space for children. Although these services are limited, they can make a significant difference for families with small children.

Precautions to consider

Lost items and luggage

If you lose something, head to the airport’s lost and found desk. For luggage, wrap your bags to avoid damage and check that everything is complete when you collect them.

Avoid parking fines

The airport offers 10 minutes of free parking in the arrivals area, but it’s easy to exceed this time due to traffic. Plan your movements to avoid unexpected charges.

Connecting flights

If you have a connecting flight, make sure to verify times and gates. Use the informational screens or ask airport staff for guidance.

Luggage and storage

Ensure your luggage is wrapped to prevent damage, a problem reported by some passengers. If you need to store bags, Ezeiza offers secure lockers and storage services. In case of lost luggage, go to your airline's counter with the corresponding receipt. 

Arriving at Ezeiza from a flight

Baggage collection

Baggage delivery can be slow, especially during peak hours. If the wait time is excessive, go to the airline's counter for updated information.

Customs controls

These are generally quick, but keep any required declarations ready, especially if transporting electronic devices or high-value products.

Transportation from the airport

Manuel Tienda León, Neo Traslados, and taxi services are popular options to reach downtown Buenos Aires. If you prefer Uber or Cabify, go to the parking area for pick-up, as these services are not allowed in the main departure zones.