Colombia is reviewing a privately initiated proposal valued at an estimated COP 3.1 trillion to modernise Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport in Soledad, which serves Barranquilla on the country’s Caribbean coast. The Ministry of Transport confirmed on November 3, 2026, that the initiative remains under evaluation, with proposed improvements covering passenger facilities, air cargo operations and aircraft maintenance services.
During a meeting with ProBarranquilla and the Barranquilla Chamber of Commerce, Transport Minister Elsa Noguera identified airport modernisation among the region’s infrastructure priorities. According to the Ministry of Transport’s November 3 announcement, private investment is considered essential to a long-term solution for Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, while separate interim improvements are being carried out by the city.
Private Proposal Covers Terminal, Cargo and Maintenance Facilities
The proposed modernisation of Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport is known as Puerta de Oro, a privately initiated public-private partnership (PPP) under review by Colombia’s National Infrastructure Agency (ANI). In its September 4, 2026 announcement, ANI estimated the investment at COP 3.1 trillion and described the project as being at the feasibility stage, with no disbursement of public funds.
The Puerta de Oro initiative covers final studies and designs, financing, administration, operation, maintenance, commercial exploitation and the modernisation of both airside and landside infrastructure. ANI said the initiative seeks to develop the airport as a regional aviation and aircraft maintenance centre, advance its recategorisation, obtain environmental certifications and build the works needed for future cargo and passenger demand.
In September 2026, ANI said it was contracting the evaluator who will review the feasibility-stage studies and designs submitted by the project’s originator. A public hearing initially scheduled for October 28, 2026, was postponed through an ANI notice published on October 9, and the notice does not state a new date. No new concession for the airport has been awarded under Puerta de Oro.
Aerocivil Has Operated the Airport Since September 2024
Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport returned to public operation after the end of its previous concession, held by Grupo Aeroportuario del Caribe. Colombia‘s Civil Aviation Authority, Aerocivil, took over airport operations on September 1, 2024.
Aerocivil’s current responsibility is separate from the Puerta de Oro proposal, which would create a new long-term arrangement only if it advances through ANI’s evaluation and approval procedures.
Interim Improvements Continue Ahead of Long-Term Decision
Barranquilla’s municipal government has been carrying out temporary landside improvements at Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport after the national government ceded it temporary management of the landside. The city reported more than 20 workstreams between October 1 and 7, 2026.
The Barranquilla municipal programme includes repairs to air-conditioning systems, additional cooling equipment, improvements to passenger areas and security facilities, and measures to strengthen ground transport access. Some interventions were completed or underway in early October, while others remained in preparation.
These municipal works are distinct from the investment envisaged under Puerta de Oro, which remains at the feasibility stage according to ANI.
FAQ
What does the Puerta de Oro airport proposal include?
The Puerta de Oro initiative proposes modernising Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport in Soledad, Colombia, including airside and landside infrastructure, cargo capacity and aircraft maintenance services. The proposal remains at the feasibility stage, according to Colombia’s National Infrastructure Agency (ANI).
How much is the proposed Barranquilla airport modernisation estimated to cost?
Colombia’s National Infrastructure Agency (ANI) estimated the privately initiated Puerta de Oro project at COP 3.1 trillion in September 2026. The amount is an estimate, not approved or committed expenditure.
Has a new concession been awarded for Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport?
No new concession award appears in the official documents reviewed as of November 5, 2026. Aerocivil took over airport operations in September 2024, while ANI continues to assess the Puerta de Oro private initiative.
