FBOs at Ministro Pistarini International SAEZ EZE

Airport security

SAEZ maintains an ASTORISK rating of 2 - MODERATE due to persistent petty crime and opportunistic theft in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area, particularly affecting transport hubs and tourist zones.

Recent FCDO and DFAT advisories highlight ongoing concerns about pickpocketing and bag-snatching around airports and public transport, with criminal activities targeting visitors.

Although previous targeted criminal operations like the "taxi mafia" at Ezeiza have been disbanded following increased enforcement, general security conditions remain at moderate risk levels.

Terminal access at SAEZ requires mandatory security screening before departure gates, with main checkpoints located at departure area entrances and Federal Airport Police oversight.

The airport operates a 24/7 General Aviation Terminal for private operators, with the new Departures Terminal centralizing check-in and security processes since April 2023.

Security measures align with global aviation standards including 24/7 monitoring, perimeter security personnel, and multi-layered screening protocols.

Customs, immigration and regulatory

Hours: H24 — airport is a designated port of entry with full immigration and customs services available around the clock at both the main international terminal and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT).

Crew and passengers on private/charter operations clear customs at the GAT; typical processing time is approximately 2 minutes per person under normal conditions. Non-personal goods are subject to Argentine customs duties; personal effects may be imported duty-free within declared limits.

Ground corridor

Buenos Aires presents an elevated opportunistic crime environment characterised primarily by petty theft, bag-snatching, and pickpocketing in urban areas, with the FCDO advising heightened vigilance in certain city districts; demonstrations and road blockades around central Buenos Aires have periodically disrupted surface movement corridors and warrant route monitoring when transiting the city centre.

The 22 km highway corridor between SAEZ and the Buenos Aires city centre (Autopista Ricchieri / AU-1) is the standard travel route and is generally passable, though congestion and, occasionally, protest activity near the capital can cause delays.

Pre-arranged vehicles with professional drivers are strongly advised over unvetted street transport, particularly for arriving passengers unfamiliar with the city; a dedicated ground support team should be coordinated for principal or high-value movements.

No armed-conflict zone designations, active OFAC sanctions, or movement restrictions apply to Argentina.

City threat summary

SAEZ maintains an ASTORISK rating of 2 - MODERATE due to persistent petty crime and opportunistic theft in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area, particularly affecting transport hubs and tourist zones.

Recent FCDO and DFAT advisories highlight ongoing concerns about pickpocketing and bag-snatching around airports and public transport, with criminal activities targeting visitors.

Although previous targeted criminal operations like the "taxi mafia" at Ezeiza have been disbanded following increased enforcement, general security conditions remain at moderate risk levels.

Country overview

Argentina presents a low overall security environment for travelers, with the U.S. Department of State, UK FCDO, and Government of Canada all advising normal precautions nationwide.

The primary risks are opportunistic petty crime in tourist areas and urban centres, and elevated criminal activity linked to drug trafficking in Rosario and the tri-border area near Puerto Iguazú.

President Javier Milei's ongoing austerity programme under La Libertad Avanza continues to generate periodic general strikes and public demonstrations, which can disrupt transport and commerce but have not produced sustained instability.

Macroeconomic conditions are gradually improving, with inflation declining and growth resuming, though social pressures remain visible.

Higher-risk locations nearby

• Rosario SAAR ELEVATED