Published on Thursday, April 16, 2026
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Daniel Oduber Quirós-International Airport, also known as Guanacaste Airport (LIR), reported Thursday a 12% increase in passenger traffic during the first quarter of 2026.

According to Corporación Aeroportuaria de Liberia S.A., the company that manages the airport, more than 793,000 passengers passed through the facility as of March, representing a 12% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

Of the total number of passengers, about 774,000 traveled on international flights, while the remainder were tourists flying on domestic routes.

The airport also reported a 12% increase in international flight operations and a 25% rise in domestic flights.

 

Among the international airlines with the most flights to LIR are American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, WestJet, and JetBlue.

Most international routes connect LIR with major airports, including Toronto Pearson International Airport in Ontario, Canada; Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport; George Bush Intercontinental Airport; Miami International Airport; and Los Angeles International Airport.

“We’re celebrating a strong start to the year that confirms Guanacaste’s position as an international destination and reflects continued confidence from airlines and travelers. We especially highlight the growth of the Canadian market, which is a key partner for the region’s connectivity,” said César Jaramillo, the airport’s manager.

Authorities added that March was one of the busiest months, with flight occupancy reaching 88%, the highest level recorded in the past 18 months.

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport is named after the former Costa Rican president who served from 1974 to 1978.

It was originally inaugurated as Tomás Guardia Airport, named after the 19th-century president who held office from 1870 to 1876 and again from 1877 to 1882.

In 1995, the facility was reinaugurated under its current name and international status.

Costa Rica ranks as the country where solo female travelers feel most secure, according to a report recently published by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the UK national broadcaster.

In related developments, Costa Rica recently received a Forbes Travel Award in the Best Nature Destination category, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.

The country was also ranked the happiest in the Americas in the 2026 edition of the World Happiness Report.

Costa Rica’s tourism sector continues to show strong growth. According to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, more than 653,000 tourists arrived by air as of February 2026.

In 2025, the country welcomed more than 2.6 million air arrivals.

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