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Ilopango International Airport (ILS/MSSS) is San Salvador's historic former main gateway, opened in the 1920s and replaced by Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport in 1980. Located just east of the capital near Lake Ilopango, it now handles general aviation, military operations, flight training, and occasional charter flights.
💡 Local Tip
Because Ilopango sits in a valley near Lake Ilopango, afternoon winds and convective weather can build quickly; frequent visitors often schedule light-aircraft departures in the morning and keep a flexible return plan.
🚖 Getting There
The airport is close to San Salvador, so taxis, ride-hailing apps, and private transfers are the most practical options; agree on the fare or use the app before departure. Public buses run along nearby routes, but they are less convenient with luggage. Allow extra time for traffic on the Boulevard del Ejército and around the airport during rush hour.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ilopango International Airport still used for commercial passenger flights?
A: It no longer handles regular scheduled international airline service; most commercial traffic uses San Salvador's main airport (SAL). Ilopango mainly supports general aviation, military, charter, and training flights.
Q: How far is Ilopango Airport from central San Salvador?
A: It is roughly 5–10 km east of central San Salvador, depending on traffic, making it one of the closest airports to the city.
Q: What facilities are available at ILS?
A: Expect basic general-aviation facilities rather than a large commercial terminal; services can be limited, so confirm handling, fuel, and customs/immigration availability in advance.
Q: Can I fly internationally from Ilopango?
A: Some charter and private international flights may operate, but scheduled international passengers should generally use SAL. Check with your operator about customs and immigration procedures.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 28, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash