Tulum, the jewel of Quintana Roo, is set to mark a significant milestone in its history with the inauguration of the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport on December 1, 2023. This significant development promises to reshape the region’s connectivity and foster economic growth.
An Overview of Tulum Airport
Situated approximately 12 miles southwest of Tulum downtown as the crow flies, Tulum Airport, owned by the Mexican government and operated by SEDENA (Mexican Secretariat of National Defense), boasts a concrete runway spanning 3,700 meters and is strategically designed to serve Tulum and the wider Quintana Roo region.
Tulum Airport Services
Tulum International Airport will feature a diverse array of spaces and services designed to guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all travelers. Some of them are:
- Wi-Fi
- Fast food area
- Security checkpoints
- Children’s playground
- Parking lot
- ATMs
- Commercial area with pharmacies, travel essentials, jewelry stores, gift shops, convenience stores, and more.
- Accessible facilities
Airlines and destinations
Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO) in Tulum is set to make its mark, attracting major Mexican airlines. VivaAerobus and Aeromexico Connect will kick off domestic operations on December 1, 2023, linking Tulum to key destinations within Mexico. Meanwhile, the airport is gearing up for international flights from March 28, 2024, with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Spirit Airlines connecting Tulum to major cities in the United States, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Orlando.
Economic Impact and Relief for Cancun
The new airport, a $3.2 billion investment covering 1,200 hectares, aims to accommodate approximately 6 million passengers annually.
Its primary objectives include easing congestion at the Cancun International Airport and, more importantly, minimizing transfer times to hotels in Tulum and the Riviera Maya. This project aligns with broader regional infrastructure initiatives, including the transformative Tren Maya.
Inauguration Day Celebrations
December 1, 2023, marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport in Tulum, led by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.
Joined by Governor Mara Lezama, the event featured the inaugural flight from the domestic airline Viva Aerobus, originating from Felipe Angeles International Airport.
Designed to boost the economy in the Riviera Maya, this airport is poised to become the southeast of Mexico’s second source of income.
The opening was commemorated with symbolic acts and expressions of gratitude towards the military engineers and collaborators, symbolizing a significant stride towards a more prosperous future for the region.
Transfer time from Tulum Downtown to Tulum Airport
Tulum airport ensures convenient access to the Tulum Hotel Zone and downtown, spanning a distance of 28 miles and offering an approximately 1-hour transfer. Additionally, the airport extends its accessibility to Puerto Aventuras, with a transfer time of an hour and 15 minutes.
It’s worth noting that while clients have the flexibility to book any Cancun/Riviera Maya hotel from Tulum Airport, we recommend that those planning vacations north of Puerto Aventuras consider utilizing Cancun Airport (CUN) for a more optimal experience.
Amstar at Tulum Airport
For your convenience, starting December, Amstar will offer transportation services from Tulum Airport. As we expand our operations to this vibrant destination, travelers will have access to private and deluxe transfer services to enhance their journey from arrival to departure.
Enjoy the same #Amstar experience, with reduced travel time to the Tulum area, gaining more time for relaxation and exploration.
