Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport

Overview

Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) is Medellin's secondary airport, situated within the city proper in the Guayabal neighborhood. Unlike the larger José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), which lies about 30 minutes east in Rionegro, Olaya Herrera primarily handles domestic regional flights. It serves as a vital link between Medellin and smaller Colombian cities—particularly those in the coffee region, the Pacific coast, and the Amazon basin. The airport is also used for general aviation, charter services, and some cargo operations. Its location within the city makes it a convenient option for travelers heading directly to downtown or southern Medellin, avoiding the longer transfer from the international airport.

Location & Access

Olaya Herrera Airport is located at Carrera 65 #13-157 in Medellin's Guayabal district, just south of the city center. It sits in the Aburrá Valley, surrounded by the Andes mountains. The airport is easily accessible by taxi, ride-hailing services (Uber, Didi), and public transport. The Medellin Metro's line A stops at the nearby El Poblado station; from there, a short taxi or bus ride gets you to the terminal. Local bus routes also connect the airport to various parts of the city. For those driving, the airport is off the Autopista Sur, a major arterial road. Paid parking is available on-site. The airport is within a 15-minute drive of El Poblado, Medellin's upscale neighborhood, and about 20 minutes from downtown.

Facilities

Olaya Herrera Airport is compact but offers essential amenities for passengers. The terminal is wheelchair-accessible, with a designated car park, entrance, and toilets for those with mobility needs. There are restrooms throughout, including a baby changing table in the accessible toilet. Baggage storage is available, useful for travelers who want to explore Medellin before a late flight. The airport has a paid parking lot, though spaces can fill quickly during peak hours (3–4 pm). While the airport does not have a wide range of shops or restaurants, there are basic cafes and vending machines. Wi-Fi may be available, but connection speeds vary. Note that the airport is not open every day; it operates on a schedule that aligns with regional flight demand—typically early morning to early evening. Travelers should confirm their flight's departure time and arrive with ample time for check-in and security.

About the Region

Medellin, the capital of Antioquia department, is known for its year-round spring-like climate, innovative urban development, and vibrant culture. The city is nestled in the Aburrá Valley, surrounded by lush green hills. Olaya Herrera Airport serves as a gateway to the Eje Cafetero (Coffee Axis), including cities like Armenia, Pereira, and Manizales, as well as destinations in the Pacific such as Quibdó and Bahía Solano. The region is famous for its coffee production, flower exports, and textile industry. Medellin itself offers attractions like Comuna 13's street art, the Botanical Garden, and the Metrocable system that connects hillside neighborhoods. The airport's central location makes it ideal for travelers combining city exploration with regional trips.

Practical Information

• Airport code: EOH
• Website: www.aeropuertomedellin.co
• Phone: +57 43656100
• Hours: The airport does not operate daily; it is open on most days but may close on certain holidays or low-demand days. Typical operating hours are roughly 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but always check the day's schedule on the official website.
• Parking: Paid parking lot available; rates are moderate. During peak hours (3–4 PM), the lot may fill up, so consider alternative transport.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and toilets; baggage storage.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is usually available, though the connection may be slow.

For the most current flight schedules and any operational changes, refer to the airport's official website or contact them directly.