Guayaquil International Airport (GYE)

Guayaquil - José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) maintains a strict non-smoking policy within its terminal buildings, aligning with many modern international airports. For travelers who wish to smoke, the policy is quite clear: smoking is exclusively permitted in designated outdoor areas located outside the main terminal. This means that once you have passed through security, there are absolutely no facilities available for smoking inside the departure or arrival areas. For passengers with connecting flights, this policy has a significant implication. If you need to smoke between flights, you must be prepared to exit the secure area of the terminal, officially enter Ecuador, utilize the outdoor smoking zones, and then re-enter the terminal, going through security screening once more. This process can be time-consuming and requires sufficient layover time to avoid missing your onward flight. It's crucial to factor in potential queues at immigration and security when planning to step out for a smoke. The designated smoking areas outside the terminals are generally easy to locate, typically found near the main entrances and exits of the building. Travelers should look for clear signage indicating these zones. These areas are public and accessible to anyone before they proceed to check-in or security. While the specific number or exact placement of these zones isn't detailed, the general practice at airports with this policy is to provide well-ventilated, open-air spaces. Vaping and the use of e-cigarettes are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, given the strict stance on traditional smoking inside the terminal, it is highly advisable to assume that vaping is also prohibited indoors and should only be done in the same designated outdoor smoking areas. Travelers should always exercise caution and adhere to local regulations, which often treat vaping similarly to smoking in public spaces. Always check for updated signage or ask airport staff if unsure, but the safest approach is to only vape where traditional smoking is allowed. This policy ensures a smoke-free environment for all passengers inside the airport, contributing to a more pleasant experience for non-smokers.