
El Salvador is embarking on one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects to date: the Pacific Airport, a $335 million state-of-the-art aviation hub in the eastern department of La Unión.
Designed to address decades of economic disparity and limited connectivity, the project promises to unlock opportunities for tourism, trade, and regional development in Central America’s often-overlooked eastern corridor.
A Strategic Vision for the East
For years, El Salvador’s eastern region—known for its pristine beaches, coffee farms, and vibrant culture—has lagged behind the capital, San Salvador, in infrastructure investment. President Nayib Bukele’s administration aims to reverse this trend with the Pacific Airport, a cornerstone of the Plan Cuscatlán development strategy.
- Global Ambitions: The airport will feature modern terminals, cargo facilities, and a runway capable of accommodating long-haul flights, positioning it as a gateway to Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Officials project it will handle 3 million passengers annually by 2030.
- Economic Lifeline: Beyond tourism, the airport aims to attract logistics companies and foreign investors, capitalizing on La Unión’s proximity to the Port of La Unión, a deep-water harbor on the Pacific.
Beyond Runways: A Catalyst for Progress
The project’s approval follows rigorous feasibility studies, including environmental impact assessments, market analyses, and technical evaluations. Key highlights:
✅ Job Creation: Over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs are expected in the first phase, with a focus on hiring local workers. Training programs in aviation, hospitality, and construction are already being planned.
✅ Sustainability: The government emphasizes compliance with international environmental standards, including noise reduction measures and protections for nearby ecosystems.
✅ Tourism Surge: The eastern region’s attractions—such as the Golfo de Fonseca (a biodiverse bay shared with Honduras and Nicaragua) and colonial towns like Conchagua—could see a tourism boom. Last week’s inauguration of the El Jagüey Aerodrome ($865,000), a domestic flight terminal nearby, underscores this push.
You might also like: Why El Salvador is Becoming the Skyscraper Capital of Central America
A Phased Approach to Construction
- Phase 1 (2025-2026): Earthworks, runway paving, and terminal construction.
- Phase 2 (2026-2027): Installation of navigation systems, cargo facilities, and partnerships with international airlines.
- Phase 3 (2027+): Expansion of commercial zones and hotels around the airport.

Quotes from Leaders
- Michelle Sol, Housing Minister:
“This airport isn’t just concrete and steel—it’s a symbol of hope for the east. We’ve ensured every blueprint meets global standards to attract top airlines and investors.” - Federico Anliker, President of CEPA (El Salvador’s port and airport authority):
“For too long, governments ignored the east. Today, we’re building a future where La Unión isn’t the end of the road but the start of new opportunities.”
Challenges and Opportunities
While optimism surrounds the project, critics highlight risks such as debt sustainability and the need for complementary infrastructure (e.g., highways, hotels). However, the government has already secured funding through public-private partnerships and international loans.
Looking Ahead
The Pacific Airport aligns with broader efforts to position El Salvador as a Central American leader in innovation and logistics. With construction set to begin in early 2025, the world will soon see if this bold bet on the east can deliver its promised economic wings.