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Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport MDE Airport Traveler Guide

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MDE Airport Insights & Guide

Key MDE Airport Topics:

Getting to Know MDE Airport

Discover Medellin's gateway, the second-largest in Colombia, known for its stunning outdoor garden. This concise guide covers everything from flight status, terminal info, to amenities, ensuring a seamless journey. Dive deeper into airport insights with our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.

WATCH VIDEO: Take a virtual tour of Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MED) in Medellin, Colombia, exploring both the outside and inside of the terminal:

Medellin Airport has one terminal with 18 gates. The terminal is divided into two levels, with arrivals on the first level and departures on the second level. The terminal is used by major airlines such as Avianca, LATAM, and Copa Airlines.

Upon arrival, passengers can follow the signs to baggage claim on the first level. After collecting their luggage, passengers can exit the terminal or proceed to the second level for transportation or to connect to another flight.

For departures, passengers can check-in at the airline counters located on the second level. After checking in, passengers can proceed to security screening and then to their departure gate. The gates are located within walking distance from each other, making it easy to navigate the terminal.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

MDE has only one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is modern and spacious, making it easy for passengers to navigate through. There are no shuttle buses or trains required to get between the terminals as there is only one terminal building. However, passengers who need to transfer to another flight should allow enough time to pass through immigration and customs, collect their baggage, and check-in for their next flight. The walking time between the gates is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the location of the gates.

Tips from MDE Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MDE-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"When arriving at MDE, follow the signs to baggage claim on the first level. It's a straightforward process, and the signage is quite clear. If you're connecting to another flight, make sure to head to the second level quickly to avoid any rush." — Carlos G., Rionegro, December 2023

"The terminal is well laid out, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding your gate. Just keep an eye on the electronic boards for any last-minute changes, especially during peak hours." — Maria T., La Ceja, February 2024

Getting To/From the City

"Taking the airport bus is a great option if you're on a budget. It’s reliable and only costs about COP 10,000. Just be sure to check the schedule ahead of time." — Juan P., Envigado, March 2024

"If you have heavy luggage, I recommend using a taxi or ride-share service. It's more comfortable and convenient, especially after a long flight." — Sofia R., Guarne, May 2024

Parking

"For those picking someone up, the cell phone waiting area is super convenient. You can wait there for free and avoid circling the airport." — Alejandro M., Sabaneta, July 2024

"If you plan to park for a few days, consider off-airport parking. It's cheaper, and the shuttle service is quite efficient." — Lucia F., Bello, September 2024

Inside the Airport

"If you have a layover, check out the Avianca Sala VIP lounge. It's worth the entrance fee for the comfort and amenities they offer." — Andres V., Medellin, October 2024

"For a taste of local cuisine, don't miss La Pausa. They serve delicious Colombian dishes that are a must-try for any traveler." — Camila L., Copacabana, November 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive early, especially during holiday seasons. Security lines can get long, and it's better to have some extra time to relax before your flight." — Javier H., El Retiro, January 2024

"Use the airline apps for real-time updates on your flight. They can notify you of delays or gate changes, which is super helpful." — Daniela C., Marinilla, June 2024

iFly Tip: Discover a variety of helpful air travel topics on our comprehensive reference guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport offers several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you're picking up a passenger, you can use the curbside parking area located outside the terminal building. However, keep in mind that curbside parking is strictly for active loading and unloading only. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times and are not permitted to leave their cars unattended. If you need to wait for your passenger, it's recommended to use the cell-phone waiting area, which is located just a few minutes away from the terminal building. This area is free of charge and provides a convenient location for drivers to wait until their passengers are ready to be picked up.

When dropping off a passenger, you can use the curbside area located outside the terminal building. However, the same restrictions apply, and drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times. If you need to accompany your passenger inside the terminal, it's recommended to use the short-term parking lot, which is located just a few steps away from the terminal building. This lot is designed for short-term parking and is ideal for dropping off passengers or for parking while you wait for your passenger to arrive.

Parking Facilities & Options

Medellin Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located near the airport terminals, providing easy access to the airport.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available. These areas allow drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages, with designated spaces located near the airport terminals.

For those looking for an economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. These parking facilities are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals.

Transportation Options

MDE Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you reach your destination:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget are available at MDE Airport. Their counters can be found in the arrivals area of the terminal. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal building at the arrivals level. The fare to the city center is approximately COP 70,000. It is recommended to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi to avoid any misunderstandings.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Cabify are available for a more budget-friendly transportation option. The pickup area is located outside the terminal building. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
  • Airport Shuttles: Several companies provide shuttle services to and from the airport, with pickup areas located outside the terminal building. Shuttle services are a convenient option for those traveling to nearby hotels. Fares vary depending on the destination, and booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
  • Public Transportation: Buses are available at the airport, with a bus stop located outside the terminal building. You can take a bus to the city center for approximately COP 10,000. This is a more affordable option for travelers looking to save on transportation costs.

iFly Tip: Ensure a stress-free journey by reading our tips for overweight travelers.

Airport Hotels

Travel can be tiring, especially when it involves long-haul flights. That's where the convenience of airport hotels comes in. Whether you're looking for a luxurious 5-star property, a comfortable inn, or a unique loft experience, there's a hotel to suit your needs. All the hotels listed are within a mile of the airport, ensuring easy access for your flight. Many of them offer amenities such as complimentary private parking, on-site dining facilities, and serene gardens for relaxation. Some even feature a patio or terrace overlooking beautiful views, perfect for unwinding after a long journey. From the tranquil Doña Piedad and the luxurious Finca Hotel Zona Franca to the convenient Hollywood Paradise Hotel and the charming Hostal Hollywood Inn, these hotels offer a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Why not make your journey a little more comfortable by staying at one of these convenient and comfortable Medellin Cordova Airport Hotels?

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

MDE Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy. If you're looking for a quick bite, head to Juan Valdez Café located in the Departures area. This coffee shop serves up delicious Colombian coffee and light snacks. Another great option is La Pausa, a restaurant located in the International Terminal that offers a menu of traditional Colombian dishes.

For those looking to do some shopping, there are plenty of stores to choose from. If you're in need of some last-minute travel essentials, visit the Dufry Duty-Free store located in the Departures area. If you're looking for souvenirs to take back home, check out Arte y Diseño, a store that sells handmade Colombian crafts and artwork.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Medellin Cordova Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is available for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Medellin Cordova Airport features designated children's areas.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: Several ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is available to provide assistance.
  • Airport Lounges: Medellin Cordova Airport features lounges such as the Avianca Sala VIP and Copa Club, offering amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. These lounges are accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight, especially if there are any delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS), which are located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on all departing flights, including gate information and any delays or cancelations.

Passengers can also be alerted about flight status changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own app that passengers can download for free, which provides up-to-date information on their flight status. These apps can send push notifications, text messages, or emails to passengers, alerting them of any changes to their flight.

Another way to get flight status information is by checking the airline's website. Most airlines have a flight status page on their website where passengers can enter their flight number and departure date to get the latest information on their flight status.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Medellin Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Make the most of TSA PreCheck with our step-by-step application guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport (MDE) is located in Rionegro, Colombia, approximately 19 miles southeast of Medellin.
  • Terminals: The airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Avianca, LATAM Airlines, and Viva Air. For a list of all airlines, check out the MDE Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport handles approximately 13,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees an average of 120 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MDE are Bogota, Miami, Panama City, Lima, and Cancun.
  • Hub Status: Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport is a hub for Viva Air and EasyFly airlines.

Airport History

MDE Airport, also known as Rionegro Airport, is the second busiest airport in Colombia, serving the city of Medellin and the surrounding areas. The airport is named after Jose Maria Cordova, a Colombian military officer who fought for independence from Spain.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1985 - The airport was opened for commercial operations, replacing the Olaya Herrera Airport in Medellin.
  • 1993 - The airport was closed temporarily due to security concerns during the height of the Medellin Cartel's power.
  • 2007 - A new terminal building was opened, increasing the airport's capacity to 9 million passengers per year.
  • 2010 - The airport was renamed from Rionegro Airport to the airport in honor of the Colombian military hero.
  • 2015 - The airport underwent a major renovation, including the expansion of the runway and the construction of a new control tower.

Today, Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport continues to be an important hub for air travel in Colombia, serving both domestic and international destinations.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Medellin Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: MDE
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +57 4 4025110
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Aeropuerto Internacional José María Córdova, Autopista Medellín-Bogotá Km 7, Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Medellin Jose Maria Cordova Airport Q&A

There is one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
You can take a taxi, which costs approximately COP 70,000, or use the airport bus for around COP 10,000. Ride-share services like Uber and Cabify are also available.
Yes, there are several hotels within a mile of the airport, such as Doña Piedad and Finca Hotel Zona Franca, offering convenient accommodation options.
Car rental counters for major companies like Avis, Hertz, and Budget are located in the arrivals area of the terminal.
You can enjoy a coffee at Juan Valdez Café or have a meal at La Pausa, which offers traditional Colombian dishes.
Yes, the airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
There are several parking lots and garages, a cell phone waiting area, and off-airport parking with shuttle service to the terminal.
Flight status can be checked using in-airport displays, airline mobile apps, or the airport's website for real-time updates.
Yes, the airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services. It's recommended to notify your airline in advance.
The lost and found office is available to assist with misplaced items during your journey.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport