Santiago de Compostela Airport, also known as Lavacolla Airport, is an international airport located in Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain. It serves as a major hub for travelers visiting the historic pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela, as well as for tourists and business travelers visiting the region. The airport is named after the nearby village of Lavacolla, where pilgrims traditionally stopped to wash in the river before reaching the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela Airport is the second busiest airport in Galicia, after A Coruña Airport, and is operated by Aena, the Spanish airport authority. The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights, with a capacity to accommodate over two million passengers annually.

The airport offers a wide range of amenities and services for travelers, including several shops and restaurants, duty-free shopping, car rental services, and a VIP lounge for premium passengers. There are also facilities for travelers with reduced mobility, such as wheelchair access and assistance services.

Santiago de Compostela Airport is well-connected to the city center and surrounding areas by public transportation, with a bus service that operates regularly between the airport and the city. Taxis are also readily available outside the terminal building for those who prefer a more convenient mode of transport.

In terms of flight operations, Santiago de Compostela Airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including Iberia, Vueling, and Ryanair, offering both domestic and international flights to destinations across Europe and beyond. The airport has a single runway and a number of aircraft parking stands, which allow for the efficient handling of incoming and outgoing flights.

The airport plays a significant role in promoting tourism and economic development in the region, by providing convenient access for visitors and business travelers. Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage trail that ends at the cathedral in the city.

In addition to its passenger services, Santiago de Compostela Airport also serves as an important cargo hub for the region, facilitating the transport of goods and products by air. The airport has a dedicated cargo terminal and facilities for handling freight, including perishable goods and pharmaceuticals.

Overall, Santiago de Compostela Airport is a vital transportation hub for the region of Galicia, providing essential air connectivity for travelers and businesses. Its strategic location, modern facilities, and efficient operations make it a key gateway to the city of Santiago de Compostela and the surrounding areas. Whether you are a pilgrim on the Camino de Santiago, a tourist exploring the region, or a business traveler conducting business in Galicia, Santiago de Compostela Airport offers a convenient and reliable travel experience for all.