Signature Aviation to Build Luxury Private Jet Terminal in Costa Rica

LIBERIA, COSTA RICA – January 08, 2026 – Signature Aviation, the world's largest network of private aviation terminals, has unveiled an ambitious plan to construct and operate a new, state-of-the-art General & Business Aviation Terminal (G&BAT) at Guanacaste Airport (LIR). The move signals a major investment in Costa Rica's burgeoning luxury tourism sector and marks a significant expansion of the company's footprint in Latin America.

While the new, purpose-built facility is slated to open its doors in 2026, the company has already commenced operations at the airport, providing its renowned ground handling and hospitality services to private aviation clients. The project is a collaboration with Guanacaste Airport's operator, Coriport, and is poised to set a new standard for VIP travel in a nation celebrated for its "Pura Vida" lifestyle and ecological wonders.

Elevating the High-End Travel Experience

The development is strategically timed to capitalize on and further fuel the growth of high-end tourism in the Guanacaste province, a region famous for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and world-class resorts. The new terminal is designed explicitly to cater to the discerning needs of high-net-worth individuals arriving on private aircraft, offering a seamless and exclusive entry point to the country.

Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, William Rodríguez López, lauded the initiative, stating, "This project will enable a necessary and strategic modernization of Guanacaste Airport’s infrastructure, aimed at enhancing service quality and visitor experience for high-net-worth travelers." He emphasized that these visitors are drawn to the country's rich biodiversity and unique culture. "We thank Signature Aviation for its confidence in the development of this expansion project, which will generate employment and further strengthen Costa Rica’s positioning as a high-end, sustainable destination.”

The influx of private aviation traffic is expected to have a significant ripple effect on the local economy. The Guanacaste region is already preparing for a surge in luxury accommodations, with an estimated 4,000 high-end hotel rooms planned for development in the coming years. Signature's new terminal will serve as a critical piece of infrastructure to support this growth, ensuring the arrival and departure experience matches the premium quality of the region's offerings.

Sustainable Luxury Meets 'Pura Vida'

A core tenet of the project is the integration of luxury with Costa Rica's deep-rooted commitment to environmental preservation. The new G&BAT will not only feature a modern architectural design but will also incorporate numerous sustainable elements. The facility will include a secure VIP guest lounge, a dedicated conference room, private customs and immigration clearance, and direct ramp access.

Reflecting a forward-thinking approach, the plans also include a private indoor bay for guest vehicles and multiple EV charging stations. The design itself will pay homage to the local environment, utilizing local materials and drawing inspiration from Costa Rica’s "environmental mindfulness." This aligns perfectly with Guanacaste Airport's established green credentials; the airport is already recognized as the first carbon-neutral terminal in its region and has received multiple awards for its environmental practices from Airports Council International (ACI).

This focus on sustainability is a shared commitment. VINCI Airports, which holds a 45% stake in Coriport, has a global strategy aimed at achieving net-zero emissions across its network by 2050. Similarly, Signature Aviation's "Signature Renew" program is a corporate-wide initiative targeting net-zero global emissions by the same year through the promotion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), electrification of ground equipment, and LEED-certified construction.

César Jaramillo, Chief Executive Officer of Coriport, described the project as a "strategic milestone" that reinforces the airport's role as a driver for development. "This initiative reflects our dedication to sustainable development and the Pura Vida culture that defines Costa Rica," he stated.

A Strategic Alliance for Regional Growth

The project is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships. Signature Aviation is financing and building the terminal, partnering with Bambu Construction, a well-regarded Costa Rican firm, for the construction phase. This ensures that a significant portion of the investment directly benefits the local community from the outset.

Once operational, the terminal will be managed by Signature in partnership with Aerologística, Costa Rica’s leading aviation ground handling service provider. This collaboration leverages Signature's global standards of excellence with Aerologística's deep local market knowledge and long-standing reputation for reliable flight support across Central America.

The immediate launch of services, even before the new terminal is complete, demonstrates the company's commitment to the market. Signature’s locally based team, working with Aerologística, is now providing full ground handling for all permitted aircraft, from business jets to cargo and military flights.

"As the world’s most internationally recognized provider of private aviation services, Signature and Coriport’s collaboration at Guanacaste Airport is a paradigm shift in how VIP travelers experience Costa Rica,” said Tony Lefebvre, Chief Executive Officer of Signature Aviation. He noted that guests will soon experience a "massive leap forward in trust and professionalism" upon their arrival and departure in the Guanacaste region. This expansion is a key part of the company's broader strategy to enhance its dominant global network, which already spans over 200 locations in 27 countries, and to tap into the dynamic and growing private aviation market in Latin America. The new facility at LIR is not just an upgrade; it's designed to be a new benchmark for private aviation hospitality throughout the region.