URUGUAY. Aeropuertos Uruguay has officially unveiled the modernised Paysandú Tydeo Larre Borges International Airport.
The opening ceremony was led by Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou, with Paysandú Mayor Nicolás Olivera, Minister of National Defense Armando Castaingdebat and other national and regional authorities in attendance.
The US$12.5 million redevelopment project was designed to enhance the airport’s infrastructure, technology and safety features to meet global standards.
Corporación América Airports Uruguay CEO Diego Arrosa said: “We built a brand-new passenger terminal from the ground up, equipping it with aviation infrastructure that meets international standards of operation and service, ensuring Paysandú and Uruguay are better connected.”
President Lacalle Pou highlighted the partnership between the airport company and Mayor Olivera in successfully delivering the new airport terminal.
He said: “This milestone is not just about practicality but also about pride. It’s a pleasure to be in Paysandú for this inauguration, which is good and beautiful in every way.”
The 650sq m passenger terminal is equipped with advanced technology, modern furnishings and facilities designed to ensure efficient operation and a high-quality passenger experience.
To align with International Civil Aviation Organization standards, works also featured runway resurfacing, the construction of a new apron and the installation of an LED lighting and beacon system.
Other key upgrades included the installation of a fibre-optic perimeter ring, modern surveillance camera systems, an automatic weather station, a new fuel plant and perimeter fencing and access roads.
As part of the project, the previous passenger terminal was repurposed as a base for the National Air Police, and a new fire station was built, complete with the necessary equipment.
Paysandú Mayor Nicolás Olivera said: “An international airport is vital for the life of a department. Being connected makes a difference, as airports bring more opportunities. We are grateful to Aeropuertos Uruguay for its boldness and commitment to this process we all embrace.”
Minister of Defense Armando Castaingdebat highlighted the opportunities the airport brings to the city, “not only in passenger transport” but also through the “doors it opens for foreign investors who chose to produce in Uruguay.”
The modernisation of Paysandú Airport forms part of the development of the National System of International Airports, a project led by Corporación América Airports throughout the country.
Aside from the Paysandú Airport redevelopment, the company has undertaken key upgrades to six airports across the country, with recent openings in Carmelo, Rivera, Salto and Melo. Work on Durazno Airport is also nearing completion.
The ceremony highlighted the successful collaboration between public and private entities, underscoring the vital role of airport infrastructure in driving local and national development. ✈
