“A complete success”: Salto adds Sunday flights and breaks tourist occupancy records

Paranair strengthens air connectivity between Montevideo and Salto with a third weekly frequency, improving access to the north of the country.

This new flight is key to consolidating air connectivity between Montevideo and Salto , facilitating short breaks, business trips, and regional events.

between the capital and the north of the country has just taken a key step. Paranair has added a third weekly frequency on the Montevideo–Salto route, with flights now also on Sundays. The decision is in line with the sustained increase in ticket demand and the growing interest in tourism and business in the coastal region.

This new service—which complements the existing flights on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons—responds to a real market need and strengthens the national air infrastructure, allowing for more fluid and dynamic access between two of the country's strategic hubs.

An inauguration that sets the course

The first Sunday flight arrived at International Airport Cristian Pos, National Director of Tourism, was on board . He emphasized that this frequency was "a firm demand from the local tourism sector."

For his part, the mayor of Salto, Dr. Carlos Albisu , highlighted the importance of this milestone:

"It's not just a flight. It's an integration tool that allows those living in the south of the country to escape for a long weekend to Salto, enjoying our hot springs, events, and the warmth of the north."

The goal is not only to increase tourist arrivals, but also to consolidate Salto as a strategic entry point to the country and internal circulation for visitors, businesspeople, and residents.

Tourism booming and almost full occupancy

The signs are clear. Hotel reservations for the holidays are already approaching 100% occupancy, the hot springs are operating at full capacity, and the cultural and sports program expands every month. This Sunday frequency facilitates short stays of three or four days, which is ideal for the modern traveler.

Flavia Lavecchia , president of the Tourism Commission of the Commercial and Industrial Center of Salto, said:

"This type of connectivity gives us real tools to sell the destination. Tourists now have more flexibility, and that generates more overnight stays, more consumption, and more local employment."

Furthermore, business owners from the south of the country, who own properties or tourist developments in the area, are returning more frequently, thanks to the accessibility of the new air service.

A bet on business tourism

The growth of thermal tourism and high hotel occupancy confirm the positive impact of strengthening air connectivity between Montevideo and Salto .

Salto isn't just focused on leisure. It's also beginning to position itself as a leading corporate destination , accessible in less than 90 minutes from Montevideo. Meetings, conventions, and business meetings find this new airlift a concrete alternative to long road trips.

"Uruguay needs a diverse tourism industry that combines relaxation with economic dynamism. And Salto has the potential to offer both," said Cristian Pos, who praised the coordinated work between the national government, the mayor's office, and the private sector.

Regionalization and the future: Concordia and Asunción as the next steps

With the success of the current route, the horizon is already beginning to expand. Mayor Albisu raised the possibility of establishing a connection with Concordia Airport (Argentina) and reactivating links with Asunción (Paraguay) , aiming to recover the historical flow of trade between coastal regions.

While decisions will depend on demand studies and bilateral agreements, the infrastructure is already available: both airports have international approval and capacity for cargo and passenger flights.

Useful service data

A connectivity that unites more than destinations

The new frequency isn't just an improvement in the flight offering . It represents a policy of territorial integration , true decentralization, and regional development. Salto is consolidating its position as a competitive, versatile, and well-connected destination, capable of attracting both those seeking relaxation and those seeking economic growth.