Guatemala and El Salvador Strengthen Tourism Through New Direct Air Route
TAG Airlines and INGUAT launched a new route between Guatemala City and San Salvador, strengthening tourism, business, and regional connectivity.
The new route connecting Guatemala City and San Salvador officially began operations this week, marking a new step toward strengthening tourism, business, and regional connectivity between Guatemala and El Salvador. The service was inaugurated by the Guatemalan Tourism Institute (INGUAT) and TAG Airlines.
Four weekly flights will improve regional connectivity
The direct connection will operate four times per week using ATR 72-500 aircraft with seating capacity for 72 passengers.
TAG Airlines expects the route to transport approximately 8,000 passengers per month, while also creating 65 new direct jobs across airport terminals and maintenance operations in both countries.
According to the companies involved, the new service is intended to provide a faster and more convenient travel option compared to overland transportation, making travel between the neighboring countries more accessible.
"This new route offers a faster and more comfortable alternative to ground transportation, making it easier for more people to travel between both countries," said Mario Maldonado, Director of Tourism Product Development at INGUAT.
El Salvador remains Guatemala's largest tourism source market
The launch comes as El Salvador continues to be Guatemala's leading source of international visitors.
During 2025, Guatemala welcomed more than 1.5 million Salvadoran visitors, who traveled to the country for leisure, family visits, and cross-border commercial activities.
The new direct connection is expected to further facilitate travel between the two nations while supporting the continued growth of tourism flows.
Route expected to support tourism and business opportunities
Beyond improving passenger mobility, officials believe the new connection will strengthen economic ties between Guatemala and El Salvador.
According to Hugo Rodríguez, Ambassador of El Salvador to Guatemala, the initiative is expected to encourage greater regional integration, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized businesses operating in the hospitality and food service sectors.
"This initiative will strengthen the economic integration of small and medium-sized businesses in the hotel and restaurant industries across the region," Rodríguez said.
With the addition of the new route, both countries aim to promote closer tourism cooperation while making business and leisure travel more efficient for travelers across Central America.
