TFS Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know TFS Airport
Embark on your Canary Island adventure through Tenerife Sur Airport (TFS), the key to exploring Spain's exotic landscapes and cultural treasures. Our concise guide simplifies your airport experience, offering essential tips from flight updates to dining and shopping. Notably, TFS is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Teide, making your arrival or departure a memorable part of your journey.
Discover everything you need for a seamless travel experience in our guide, including terminal information, parking, and more. Let us enhance your visit to TFS.
Explore iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide for insights into other major airports.
iFly Tip: Keep your kids happy and occupied during your flight with advice from our flying with children guide.
Navigating TFS's Terminals
TFS, also known as TFS, has one main terminal with two levels. The terminal has 16 gates and is used by major airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and TUI Airways. The terminal is divided into two areas: Departures and Arrivals.
Departures are located on the upper level of the terminal and are divided into three areas: Check-in, Security, and Boarding. Check-in counters are located in the center of the terminal, while the Security area is located to the right. Boarding gates are located to the left of the terminal.
Arrivals are located on the lower level of the terminal and are divided into two areas: Baggage Claim and Customs. Baggage Claim is located in the center of the terminal, while Customs is located to the right.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
TFS Airport has only one terminal, making it easy for travelers to navigate. There is no need for shuttle buses or trains to get between terminals. Instead, passengers can simply walk from one gate to another, with the farthest gate being only a 10-minute walk away. The terminal is well-equipped with various amenities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges, to ensure that travelers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while waiting for their flights.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Tenerife South Airport (TFS) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from TFS-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
"Tenerife South Airport has a single terminal, but it can get quite busy. If you’re flying with Ryanair or EasyJet, you’ll typically find their check-in counters in the far end of the terminal. Make sure to check the screens for your gate number as it can change last minute." — Carlos M., Arona, Spain, August 2023
"The layout is straightforward, but be prepared for long walks if your gate is at the far end. There are moving walkways to help, but they can be crowded during peak times." — Maria G., Adeje, Spain, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The bus service from the airport to Santa Cruz is reliable and affordable. Look for the 111 or 343 lines, which run frequently and can save you a lot compared to taxis." — Javier R., Granadilla de Abona, Spain, September 2023
"If you're renting a car, book in advance and use the rental services located inside the terminal to avoid the hassle of shuttle buses." — Elena P., San Miguel de Abona, Spain, October 2023
Parking
"The airport parking is quite convenient and well-priced. If you’re planning to park for more than a day, use the long-term parking lot which is just a short walk from the terminal." — Luis F., Los Cristianos, Spain, November 2023
"For short-term parking, the P1 lot is your best bet. It's right in front of the terminal and perfect for drop-offs and pick-ups." — Ana S., Playa de las Américas, Spain, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"For a quick bite, I recommend the tapas bar near gate 15. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy some local flavors before your flight." — Diego T., El Médano, Spain, January 2024
"The duty-free shops offer a good selection of local wines and spirits. If you have some time, it's worth exploring for some last-minute gifts." — Laura B., Costa Adeje, Spain, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Security lines can get long, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arrive at least two hours before your flight to avoid any last-minute stress." — Pablo H., San Isidro, Spain, March 2024
"Keep an eye on the flight information screens. Delays are not uncommon, and gate changes happen frequently. Staying informed will save you a lot of hassle." — Sofia L., La Caleta, Spain, April 2024
iFly Tip: Breeze through the airport with advice from our wait times page.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When it comes to picking up and dropping off passengers at TFS, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, curbside parking is strictly prohibited at the airport. This means that you cannot park your car along the curb to wait for your passengers. Instead, you will need to use one of the designated parking areas.
If you are picking up passengers, the best option is to use the cell-phone waiting area. This is a free parking area where you can wait in your car until your passengers are ready to be picked up. Once they have collected their luggage and are ready to go, they can call or text you to let you know that they are on their way to the designated pick-up area. From there, you can quickly and easily pick them up without having to circle the airport or pay for parking.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're driving to TFS Airport, there are several parking options available to suit your needs. There are both short-term and long-term parking options, as well as a cell phone waiting area for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.
The airport has several parking lots and garages available, located within walking distance of the terminals. There are also designated handicapped parking spaces available in each lot and garage.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Transportation Options
Tenerife Sur Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving in Spain:
- Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at Tenerife Sur Airport, with major providers such as Avis, Europcar, and Hertz offering their services. You can easily book a car online or at the airport, allowing you to explore the beautiful island of Tenerife at your own pace. Most rental services operate daily with varying hours, typically from early morning to late evening. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
- Taxis: Taxi services are readily accessible at Tenerife Sur Airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on your destination, so it's always a good idea to ask the driver for an estimate before getting in the taxi. The ride to popular destinations like Playa de las Américas takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Cabify are available at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building. It's important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed in these vehicles.
- Airport Shuttles: Several companies operate shuttle services to and from Tenerife Sur Airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building. Shuttle services are a convenient option for those traveling to nearby cities or hotels. Fares vary depending on your destination and the number of passengers. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
- Public Transportation: The TITSA bus service offers routes to various destinations on the island. Buses depart from the airport to major locations such as Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or online. Additionally, the Tenerife Tram connects the airport to the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, providing a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
iFly Tip: Learn how to keep your toddler entertained on flights by visiting our air travel with toddlers page.
Airport Hotels
When planning your trip, finding the perfect accommodation near the airport is paramount. Our selection of Tenerife South Airport Hotels includes options for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a cozy beachside hostel, a tranquil guest house, or a spacious apartment with stunning views, we've got you covered. Each of these hotels provides easy access to the airport, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. Most are also conveniently located near local attractions, making them ideal bases for exploring the beautiful island.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at the airport, you won't be disappointed. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit any taste or budget.
For a quick snack or coffee, head to Starbucks or Caffriccio. If you have more time to spare, sit down and enjoy a meal at one of the airport's restaurants, such as La Pausa or La Piazzetta. Both offer a range of dishes, from Spanish tapas to Italian pizza and pasta.
When it comes to shopping, Tenerife Sur Airport has a good selection of stores to choose from. If you're in the market for some duty-free goods, head to the Duty Free Shop or Canariensis. For fashion and accessories, check out Adolfo Dominguez or Tous. And if you need to pick up some last-minute souvenirs, stop by the Tenerife Pearl or the Canarian Aloe Vera shop.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Tenerife Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: TFS 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 to assist you in locating and retrieving your belongings.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, TFS Airport offers designated children's areas to ensure your little ones are comfortable and happy before your flight.
- 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 the event of a medical emergency, TFS Airport has a medical center with trained professionals on hand to provide assistance.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. At the airport in Spain, there are several ways to check your flight status and receive alerts about any changes or delays.
One of the easiest ways to get flight status information is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays show real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information.
Another option is to download the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines offer mobile apps that allow passengers to check their flight status, receive push notifications about any changes or delays, and even check in for their flight directly from their phone.
In addition to mobile apps, passengers can also sign up for text or email alerts from their airline. These alerts will notify passengers of any changes to their flight status, including delays, cancellations, or gate changes.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Tenerife Sur Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is located in the southern part of Tenerife, Spain.
- Terminal: The airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include Ryanair, easyJet, and TUIfly. For a full list of airlines, visit the TFS Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Tenerife South Airport handles approximately 50,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 300 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from TFS are Madrid, London, Barcelona, Manchester, and Amsterdam.
- Hub Status: Tenerife South Airport is a hub for Ryanair, Jet2.com, and TUI Airways.
Airport History
The airport, also known as Reina Sofia Airport, is located on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is the second busiest airport in the Canary Islands and serves as a hub for several airlines, including Ryanair and TUI Airways.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1978 - Tenerife Sur Airport opens to commercial flights, replacing the older Tenerife North Airport.
- 1980 - The airport gains international attention when two Boeing 747s collide on the runway, resulting in the deadliest aviation accident in history.
- 1992 - The airport undergoes a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building.
- 2007 - The airport is renamed Reina Sofia Airport in honor of the Spanish Queen.
- 2016 - The airport handles over 10 million passengers for the first time in a single year.
- 2020 - The COVID-19 pandemic causes a significant decrease in air traffic, leading to the closure of the airport for several weeks.
Despite its tragic past, Tenerife Airport continues to be an important gateway to the Canary Islands, welcoming millions of travelers each year.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Tenerife South Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: TFS
- Airport Website
- Phone: +34 913 211 000
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Tenerife South Airport, 38610 Granadilla de Abona, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Tenerife Sur Airport Q&A
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