Toncontín International Airport is the main airport serving Tegucigalpa, the capital city of Honduras. Located just 6 kilometers from the city center, Toncontín Airport is the second busiest airport in Honduras, handling both domestic and international flights. With a single runway and limited infrastructure, Toncontín has gained a reputation for its challenging approach and the surrounding mountainous terrain.

The airport was originally constructed in the 1940s as a military airfield and was eventually converted for civilian use in 1949. Since then, Toncontín has undergone several upgrades and renovations to accommodate the increasing demand for air travel in Honduras. Despite its short runway of just 1,863 meters, the airport serves as a vital gateway for travelers coming in and out of Tegucigalpa.

One of the unique features of Toncontín Airport is its challenging approach, which requires pilots to navigate through the surrounding mountains and descend sharply to land on the runway. The airport's high elevation of 1,005 meters above sea level, as well as its proximity to mountains and inclement weather conditions, make for a stressful landing experience for both pilots and passengers. In fact, the airport has gained a reputation as one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to its short runway and challenging approach.

Despite its reputation, Toncontín Airport has implemented various safety measures to ensure the security of its operations. In recent years, the airport has undergone improvements such as the installation of new lighting systems, improved navigation aids, and expanded terminal facilities to enhance the overall passenger experience. Additionally, the Honduran government has invested in upgrades to the airport's infrastructure to meet international safety standards and regulations.

Toncontín Airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including TACA Airlines, Avianca Honduras, and Aerolíneas Sosa, providing both domestic and international flights to destinations in North and Central America. The airport's limited capacity and infrastructure have led to discussions about the need for a new international airport to better serve the growing demand for air travel in Honduras.

In 2008, plans were announced to construct a new international airport in the Palmerola Air Base located near Comayagua, about 75 kilometers northwest of Tegucigalpa. The new airport, known as the Honduras International Airport at Palmerola, is expected to alleviate the congestion and safety concerns at Toncontín Airport and provide a modern and efficient facility for travelers to and from Honduras.

Despite the challenges and limitations of Toncontín International Airport, it continues to play a significant role in connecting Tegucigalpa to the rest of the world. As one of the busiest airports in Honduras, Toncontín serves as a vital gateway for tourism, business, and trade, contributing to the economic development and growth of the region. With ongoing improvements and the potential for a new international airport on the horizon, the future of air travel in Honduras looks promising.