Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport – ESM Airport

Colonel Carlos Concha Torres Airport is a public airport that serves Esmeraldas, Ecuador. The airport is located in Tachina, Esmeraldas, Ecuador. It is operated by the Dirección General de Aviación Civil. The airport is also known by its IATA code, ESM Airport.

Best Time to Visit

The airport was first established in 1940 and opened as the General Rivadeneira Airport. Between the years 2012 to 2013, the airport went through renovations wherein it also received a new terminal and the runway lengthened. During the renovation, a contest was held for a new airport namesake. Carlos Concha Torres received the most votes. The new terminal eventually opened in 2014 and passenger capacity increased, being able to handle as much as 250,000 per year. Aside from the terminal and runway, a new apron as well as airport traffic control tower was built. The whole renovation cost US$45 million. The TAME airlines operates flights from the airport to Cali, Guayaquil, and Quito. Nearby cities that benefit from the air services of ESM include Atacames, Mompiche and Súa.

What to Do & Area Attractions

Travelers can book from several hotels while in Esmeraldas. Hotel Sofia is a simple and straightforward hotel that is only 16 minutes from the airport. Hosteria Las Palmas is also a simple hotel but features comfortable rooms and a large outdoor pool. The hotel is only 19 minutes away from the airport. Hotel Perla Verda is a classic and traditional hotel located 21 minutes from the airport. It is located in the city center so there are plenty of things for travelers to enjoy during their stay at the hotel.

The nearest airport from ESM is 5 hours away, the Mariscal Sucre International Airport.