Asunción Airport Sets Passenger Record While Montevideo Upgrades to ILS CAT IIIb.

The commercial aviation news from South America highlights major operational and passenger milestones. The aviation sectors in Paraguay and Uruguay achieved significant progress on Monday. Asunción's Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) set a new passenger record. Meanwhile, Carrasco International Airport (MVD) in Montevideo completed a multi-million-dollar technological overhaul. These developments signal strong regional aviation growth and increased operational resilience.

Paraguay's Passenger Surge

Paraguay's National Civil Aviation Authority (DINAC) confirmed the new record. Silvio Pettirossi International Airport officially surpassed its all-time passenger high. The airport recorded 1,285,623 passengers before the 2025 calendar year concluded. This figure eclipses the previous high-water mark set in 2019.

DINAC head Nelson Mendoza attributed the surge to multiple factors. These include market confidence from the return of legacy and new carriers. Paraguay's growth as a hub for major international events also contributed. The country is also gaining a reputation as a secure destination for foreign capital. This has stimulated executive and scientific travel. The growth reflects a management strategy focused on service optimization and regional connectivity.

Connectivity and Economic Impact

DINAC noted a 15% increase in passenger traffic in the first half of 2025. This was compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. Authorities projected the nation's airports could handle up to 1.5 million passengers by year-end. This strong South American air traffic performance is a pivotal moment. The previous all-time high was 1,209,621 passengers in 2019.

Uruguay's Low-Visibility Capability

Across the River Plate, Montevideo's Carrasco Airport completed a major airport technology upgrade. The project successfully installed a state-of-the-art Instrument Landing System (ILS) CAT IIIb. This system is designed for safe aircraft landings in near-zero visibility conditions.

The upgrade was a US$20 million investment led by Aeropuertos Uruguay. The project involved a year of construction. The new system includes advanced radio navigation technology. This technology guides pilots directly to the runway when visual contact is impossible.

Operational Benefits and Global Standing

The ILS CAT IIIb system is a significant operational leap. Carrasco previously operated with a Category I ILS. The Category IIIb system is among the most advanced globally. It drastically reduces flight cancellations, diversions, and delays. This is especially important due to the heavy fog common in the region.

Aeropuertos Uruguay General Manager Jorge Navarro stated the system puts Carrasco on par with major global hubs. These include JFK Airport in New York and Charles de Gaulle in Paris. The upgrade also features a new LED lighting system with nearly 2,000 lights. A high-precision weather station with strategic sensors was also placed. This provides real-time atmospheric data, enhancing safety and operational predictability for airlines.

• The ILS CAT IIIb system adheres to the highest standards set by the ICAO.
• The new system is expected to be fully operational by next winter.
• This technological leap provides a competitive advantage for aviation development.

These concurrent Paraguay Uruguay aviation milestones underscore a commitment to modernization. They enhance the region's overall air connectivity and passenger experience.