Tulum, Mexico: Airport Accessibility And Travel Options

Tulum, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and Mayan ruins. In the past, travellers flying into the city would arrive at Cancún International Airport, which is located about 125 kilometres (78 miles) north of Tulum, and then drive for about two hours to reach their destination. However, Tulum now has its own airport, the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (IATA: TQO, ICAO: MMTL), which opened in December 2023 and started receiving international flights in March 2024. The new airport is closer to Tulum than Cancún International Airport and offers a seamless travel experience with short immigration lines and convenient flight connections from cities across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Tulum Airport (TQO) is officially open for domestic and international flights

Tulum Airport (IATA: TQO | ICAO: MMTL) officially known as Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO), is open for domestic and international flights. The airport was inaugurated on December 1, 2023, and received its first international flight on March 28, 2024, from Dallas Fort Worth. The airport is located approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) or a 45-minute drive south of Tulum. It is also just 12 miles from Tulum's centre.

The airport has a 3,500-metre runway and is constructed to handle up to 5.5 million passengers annually and around 32,000 flights each year. It is designed to accommodate the soaring demand for what was once an under-the-radar backpacker-friendly beach destination that has now exploded in popularity along Mexico's Riviera Maya.

Previously, travellers to Tulum had to fly to Cancun International Airport and endure a two-hour drive. The new airport in Tulum has shortened the trip significantly and opened up a new set of options for resorts in the region. It is also a gateway to other destinations in Mexico, such as Bacalar further south.

There are currently more than 10 domestic and international airlines flying to Tulum, with more than 15 cities offering direct flights. These include American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, VivaAerobus, and Aeromexico.

The airport is 20km southwest of Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Mexico, is now more accessible than ever before, thanks to the opening of the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, also known as Tulum Airport (TQO). The airport is located 20km southwest of Tulum, in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

The airport is a welcome development for travellers, as it significantly reduces the time and effort previously required to reach Tulum. Previously, visitors would fly into Cancun and then endure a two-hour drive south to reach their final destination. Now, travellers can fly directly into Tulum, enjoying the convenience of a shorter travel time and avoiding the hassle of a lengthy drive.

The Tulum Airport is situated in a peaceful and pristine setting, beautifully designed to pay tribute to the surrounding jungle. The airport features a spacious 70,000 square metre passenger terminal, which offers standard international airport services across two floors, with departures on the top floor and arrivals on the ground floor. The terminal includes all the expected facilities, such as check-in areas, a security checkpoint, baggage claim, taxi stands, and car rental services. The airport also boasts a 3,700-metre runway, capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft and handling a substantial number of passengers annually.

Despite the convenience of the new airport, there have been some challenges. Transportation options are somewhat limited, and travellers have reported high taxi rates for the 45-minute drive from the airport to Tulum. Additionally, protests have blocked roads to the airport, with local residents expressing concerns about unfulfilled agreements made by the federal government regarding infrastructure improvements in the area.

Nevertheless, the Tulum Airport is a game-changer for travellers, providing easier access to the beachside escape known for its 13th-century Mayan ruins with ocean views. With more than 10 domestic and international airlines flying to Tulum, it has become a popular vacation destination that is now more connected than ever.

Airlines like Delta, United, and JetBlue offer non-stop flights to Tulum

Tulum, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and well-preserved Mayan ruins. Travellers can now take non-stop flights to Tulum Airport TQO from various US cities, including New York and Los Angeles.

Delta Air Lines offers flights to Tulum, Mexico, from several US cities, including New York and Los Angeles. Delta Connection carriers include Endeavor Air, Republic Airways, and SkyWest Airlines. Delta is part of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes airlines such as Aeromexico, Air France, and Korean Air. Delta provides flexibility with its SkyMiles program, allowing members to earn miles on most flights and offering the option to change or cancel Award tickets without fees for US and Canada-originating flights.

United Airlines also offers non-stop flights to Tulum, with routes from New York/Newark, Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles. These flights are available in Business and Economy class, with prices varying depending on the cabin and travel dates.

JetBlue is the latest airline to announce non-stop flights to Tulum, with daily flights from New York's JFK airport starting in June 2024. JetBlue's new route will be operated on an Airbus A320 aircraft, departing New York at 7:55 a.m. and returning from Mexico at 12:45 p.m. To celebrate, JetBlue is offering promotional fares as low as $149 for one-way travel until December 15, 2024.

These non-stop flight options offered by Delta, United, and JetBlue provide convenient and direct access to Tulum, making it easier than ever for travellers to visit this desirable Mexican destination.

The airport is peaceful, pristine, and beautifully designed

Tulum's airport is a serene haven, offering travellers a peaceful welcome to Mexico. Its design is a beautiful tribute to the region's jungle, with a bright and airy interior that feels calm and spacious. The airport is pristine, with a modern and convenient layout. The building is a stunning example of architecture, seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics.

The terminal building spans 70,000 square metres, providing ample space for a smooth travel experience. The two-storey structure separates departures and arrivals, with the top floor dedicated to departures and the ground floor to arrivals. This simple yet efficient design ensures a seamless flow of passenger traffic, enhancing the overall peaceful atmosphere.

The airport's interior is a work of art, featuring unique design elements that celebrate the natural beauty of Tulum. The decorations pay homage to the jungle, with a striking showpiece that captures the essence of the jungle's greenery and vibrant spirit. The tunnel to the baggage claim area is a standout feature, with archways crafted from branches illuminated in vibrant blues and greens, creating an inviting and club-like atmosphere.

The airport's design extends beyond aesthetics, as it is also constructed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft. The runway is an impressive 3,700 metres in length, capable of handling wide-body aircraft and a high volume of passenger traffic. The airport's infrastructure includes 13 aircraft stands and complementary hardstands, ensuring efficient operations for various aircraft types.

The peaceful and beautifully designed airport is not just a gateway to Tulum but also a destination in itself. With its serene atmosphere and stunning visuals, it sets the tone for a relaxing and memorable journey. The airport's design showcases a thoughtful blend of cultural tribute, modern convenience, and functional elegance, making it a unique and welcoming gateway to this vibrant region of Mexico.

The airport is part of a strategy to engage the armed forces in infrastructure projects

Tulum, Mexico, is now home to the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, also known as Tulum Airport (IATA: TQO | ICAO: MMTL). The airport, which is located approximately 40km (25 miles) south of Tulum, first opened its doors to domestic flights on December 1, 2023, and welcomed its inaugural international flight from Dallas Fort Worth on March 28, 2024.

The Tulum Airport project faced funding challenges and delays over the years, but with renewed momentum in 2022, it finally came to fruition. The airport has transformed the travel experience to Tulum and surrounding areas, offering a closer and more convenient alternative to the previously closest airport in Cancun. With over 10 domestic and international airlines serving Tulum, travellers can now fly directly to Tulum International Airport from various destinations, including Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, and Tijuana.

The airport's design pays homage to Tulum's jungle setting, featuring striking jungle-esque sculptures and decorations. The peaceful and beautifully designed airport boasts a seamless immigration process, with travellers reporting quick passport stamping and minimal lines. However, travellers should be aware of a surprise airport pickup fee, which can add to the overall cost of the journey.

The opening of the Tulum Airport is a significant development for the region, making Tulum and other remote beach destinations more accessible to travellers. With plans for additional hotels and resorts in the area, the airport is poised to play a crucial role in supporting the growing tourism industry in Tulum and the surrounding areas.

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