New Tulum Airport: The Ultimate Guide to TQO Airport in 2024
READY TO FLY INTO THE NEW INTERNATIONAL TULUM AIPORT?
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the newly opened Tulum Airport — a key addition to Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
Launched in December 2023, this modern facility will revolutionize the travel experience for visitors to Tulum.
Previously, the closest airport to Tulum Mexico was the Cancun International Airport. If you were traveling from the Cancun airport to Tulum, it would have taken approximately 1.5 hours. However, that has all changed.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a frequent traveler, this guide offers vital information about the airport’s location, amenities, airline services, and transfer options. Keep reading for the ultimate guide to the new Tulum Airport!
What is the official Tulum airport code?
TQO — The official name of the airport in Tulum Mexico is Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, and its IATA code is TQO.
Though less-commonly used for passengers buying tickets, you might also need to know the ICAO Tulum International Airport code. The ICAO Tulum Airport code is MMTL.
✈️ Looking for cheap flights to Tulum? Check prices now on Skyskanner, where I always find the cheapest flights to Tulum Mexico.
Where is Tulum International Airport located?
Tulum’s Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport is conveniently located about 15 miles (25 kilometers) southwest of the center of Tulum in the municipality of Felipe Carrillo Puerto — hence the Tulum airport name.
Location Map for Tulum International Airport
This strategic location places the airport within easy reach of various popular destinations in the region. Here’s a breakdown of the travel times from the airport to key locations:
• Tulum Town (AKA Tulum Pueblo, Downtown Tulum or Tulum Centro): Approximately 30-35 minutes by car.
• Tulum Hotel Zone (Tulum Beach): About 45 minutes, offering easy access to the area’s renowned resorts and white sand beaches.
• Tulum Mayan Ruins: These iconic Tulum Ruins overlooking the beautiful Caribbean Sea are just a 35-40 minute drive away.
• Cancun: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours north of Tulum International Airport.
• Akumal: Located about 45-50 minutes north of the airport, Akumal is known for its sea turtle snorkeling.
• Puerto Aventuras: A luxury marina village, a little over an hour’s drive to the north of Tulum Airport.
• Bacalar: Famous for its stunning Laguna Bacalar or “La Laguna de Los Siete Colores” (The Lagoon of 7 Colors), Bacalar is about 2.5 to 3 hours south of the airport.
Additionally, the Tulum Mexico Airport is designed to cater to both domestic and international travelers, with facilities to handle a significant number of passengers annually.
It’s part of a larger plan to boost the region’s connectivity and tourism, linking efficiently with other transportation networks like the Maya Train (or, Tren Maya in Spanish).
Tulum Airport Access to Tren Maya (Maya Train)
Speaking of the Mayan Train project — Have you heard of it? The Tren Maya is a significant development in Mexico’s transportation infrastructure, and closely linked with the Tulum International Airport.
In fact, you’ll soon be able to catch the Tren Maya at Tulum Airport which will have a convenient onsite station.
This ambitious rail project, initiated by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, aims to revolutionize travel across the Mexican Caribbean Yucatan Peninsula, and beyond.
Spanning more than 950 miles (1,525 km) and encompassing multiple states, the Mayan Train is designed to offer both freight and passenger services.
It will connect key destinations like Cancun, Tulum, Mérida, and many cultural and archaeological sites.
This combination of air and rail travel options is a strategic move to streamline the travel experience, providing visitors with an easy and convenient option to explore whichever Mexican city is on their bucket list.
New Tulum Airport Amenities
Tulum International Airport, designed with both comfort and convenience in mind, offers a variety of amenities to ensure a pleasant experience for travelers. These amenities at TQO Airport include:
- Airport Lounges: The Tulum Airport lounge provides lounge areas where passengers can relax and unwind before their flights.
- FREE Wi-Fi: Keeping connected is easy with the airport’s Wi-Fi services available throughout the terminal.
- Diverse Dining Options: The airport offers a range of dining choices, from quick snacks like tacos to more substantial meals, catering to different tastes and preferences.
- Shops Offering Local Crafts: For those looking to take home a piece of Tulum, the airport features shops where you can buy local crafts and other souvenirs.
- Car Rentals: For travelers seeking flexibility and the freedom to explore, several car rental agencies are available at the airport.
The airport is designed to handle a significant number of passengers annually and aims to blend modernity with traditional Mayan architecture, reflecting a commitment to both sustainability and cultural sensitivity.
It offers a strategic gateway not only to Tulum but also to the wider Riviera Maya region, encouraging visitors to engage with local communities and explore the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Tulum Airport: Airlines & Destinations
Wondering, What airlines fly to Tulum Airport? The answer is the airport in Tulum Mexico hosts a variety of airlines that offer both domestic and international flights.
So, what are some of the Tulum airport airlines that will be flying into this new international airport? Here’s everything you need to know about flights to Tulum International Airport:
International Flights to Tulum Airport
These airlines will significantly expand Tulum’s air connectivity, linking it with major cities across Mexico and internationally, particularly in the United States and Canada.
- Delta Air Lines: Planning direct flights from Atlanta, Georgia, starting in March 2024.
- Spirit Airlines: Announcing daily flights from Fort Lauderdale and Orlando beginning in March 2024.
- American Airlines: Offering four daily flights, including services from Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, and Miami, beginning in March 2024.
- United Airlines: Operating routes from Newark, Houston (starting March 2024), Chicago, and Los Angeles (starting May 2024).
- Air Canada: Connecting Toronto (starting May 2024) and Montreal (beginning May 2024).
- Jet Blue: Providing services from New York (JFK) starting in June 2024.
Domestic Flights to Tulum Airport
But international flights are not the only flights landing at this Quintana Roo airport. There will be several local Mexican airlines that will be organizing Tulum airport flights, including:
- VivaAerobus: Providing services to Mexico City (Benito Juárez Mexico City International Airport and Felipe Ángeles AIFA International Airport), Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Tijuana.
- Aeroméxico: Offering flights to Mexico City (Benito Juárez Mexico City Airport) with about 15 flights weekly.
- Mexicana de Aviación: Revived by the Mexican government, this airline will connect Tulum to Mexico City (Felipe Ángeles Mexico City AIFA Airport).
- Volaris: Mexico’s largest low-cost carrier, they are considering adding flights to the new Tulum Airport soon. (🤞 I have my fingers crossed for this because I think Volaris is the best Mexican airline).
Tulum Airport Transportation Options
Upon arrival at the new Tulum International Airport, travelers have several transfer options available, ensuring convenient and efficient travel to their final destination in the region.
Each of the options featured below caters to different needs and budgets, from cost-effective public transportation ideal for Tulum budget travelers, to more personalized services like taxis and private shuttles.
Tulum Airport Car Rentals
If you prefer independence and want to do some day trips, several car rentals airport agencies have counters at the airport.
Renting a car in Tulum is a great choice for exploring the broader Riviera Maya region and other destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula.
🏆 Best Tulum Car Rental Company
When booking my Mexico car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars.
They search international corporations and local Mexican companies, so you get the best deal — and have FREE cancellation up to 48 hours before your rental.
ADO Bus
The ADO buses public transportation is available, offering an affordable option for travel from the airport to Tulum town center, and beyond.
At the Tulum ADO terminal in downtown, travelers can change buses to reach Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Chetumal (near Bacalar).
📆 Tulum Airport Bus Schedule
- Tulum Airport to Downtown Tulum Bus: Buses depart at 2pm, 5pm and 5:30pm. Tickets are $175 pesos (about $11 USD)
- Downtown Tulum to Tulum Airport to Bus: Buses depart at 9:40am, 2:30pm and 4:40pm. Tickets are $175 pesos (about $11 USD)
- Tulum Airport to Playa del Carmen Bus: Buses depart at 5pm and 5:30pm. Tickets are $925pesos (about $18 USD)
Airport Shuttles
The airport offers numerous shuttle services, including both private transfers and shared rides.
These shuttles connect the airport to various parts of Tulum and its surrounding areas. Private shuttle services should ideally be arranged in advance through reputable providers.
Tulum Taxis
Taxis are readily available at the airport, offering a more personalized journey. While rates might vary, they often provide a convenient and direct route to your destination.
Tulum Uber
Wondering, Is there Uber at Tulum Airport? Sadly, no.
There’s actually no Uber in Tulum, no Lyft in Tulum, and no Tulum ride-shares of any kind — though there are taxis available day and night so it’s not that difficult to get around in Tulum.
New Tulum Airport: Frequently Asked Questions
Ready for some frequently asked questions about this new airport Tulum option? Here are some burning questions about the Quintana Roo Mexico airport.
Is Tulum Airport open now?
Yes — The Tulum Airport is open. The Tulum airport opening date was December 1, 2023.
It marked the commencement of operations at the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, commonly referred to as Tulum International Airport.
This opening included the launch of domestic flights, with international flights following suit in the coming months.
Which airport do you fly into for Tulum Mexico?
For Tulum, you would fly into the newly opened Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (AKA Tulum Airport).
TQO Tulum Airpoirt is the best airport for Tulum, and the closest airport to Tulum Mexico.
This newly-built facility serves as the primary airport near Tulum, and is designed to handle a significant number of flights. The airport was designed to handle several million passengers annually.
Is Tulum getting an international airport?
Yes — Tulum now has an international airport. The Tulum airport progress culminated with its opening on December 1, 2023.
This development has enhanced Tulum’s accessibility to both domestic and international travelers from North American and beyond.
Can you fly directly to Tulum Mexico?
Yes — You can fly directly to Tulum Mexico. The TQO International Airport now receives domestic and international flights, offering direct regional access.
Which airlines fly to Tulum Airport?
Several airlines fly to Tulum, including Aeromexico and VivaAerobus for domestic routes. International airlines like Delta, Spirit, American Airlines, United, and Air Canada also announced routes to Tulum, expanding its global connectivity.
Is Tulum and Cancun the same airport?
No — Tulum and Cancun do not share the same airport. The airport in Cancun is Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), while the airport in Tulum is Tulum International Airport (code: TQO).
If you want to go from the airport Cancun to Tulum, the airport is located approximately 2.5 hours north of Tulum, while Tulum has its dedicated airport.
When traveling between Cancun and Tulum, I recommend this private shuttle service.
What is the Tulum Airport passenger capacity?
The new airport in Tulum is said to have capacity for 5.5 million passengers annually. It is expected to become the second busiest airport in the Yucatan Peninsula, after Cancun CUN Airport.
What airport is near Tulum Mexico?
The airport closest to Tulum Mexico is the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, situated about 15 miles (25 km) southwest of Downtown Tulum City Center.
This airport is the most convenient for travelers heading to Tulum.
However, if you’re considering alternative airports, the Tulum nearest airport other than its own is the Cancun International Airport. Located about 75 miles (118 km) north of Tulum.
✈️ Cancun International Airport (Code: CUN)
As Cancun International Airport is one of the largest airport in Mexico, it provides more frequent flights and a larger variety of airlines.
For this reason, CUN Airport is still a popular choice for many visitors to the region.
✈️ Cozumel International Airport (Code: Czm)
Another option is the Cozumel International Airport, located on the island of Cozumel, which is about 50 miles (80 km) northeast of Tulum.
However, reaching Tulum from Cozumel requires a ferry ride to Playa del Carmen, and then a road transfer to Tulum.
Cozumel International Airport, while small, can be a convenient entry point for those planning to explore Cozumel Island before heading to Tulum.
If you’re into snorkeling, Cozumel has some of the best in Mexico.
These airports near Tulum offer different options for travelers depending on their itinerary, flight availability, and preferences.
However, when traveling to Tulum, the Tulum Airport is now the most convenient.
Is it better to fly to Tulum or Cancun?
Whether it’s better to fly to Tulum or Cancun depends on your travel plans. If Tulum is your primary destination, flying directly to the Tulum International Airport is more convenient.
However, for a broader exploration of the Yucatan Peninsula, or if your travel includes multiple destinations, flying into Cancun International Airport is a better option due to more frequent flights and lower fares.
Final Thoughts on the Tulum Airport
The opening of the Tulum Airport Mexico marks a significant milestone in the country’s infrastructure development and tourism initiatives.
Its strategic location, modern facilities, and growing list of domestic and international flights promise enhanced connectivity and convenience for travelers.
This development has been a highlight in recent travel news, positioning Tulum as a picturesque destination, as well as an accessible and prominent hub in the Yucatan Peninsula.
For travelers seeking the allure of Tulum’s beaches, culture, and history, the new airport offers a welcoming gateway to explore and experience this unique and enchanting part of Mexico.
While Tulum has long been one of the top Mexico travel destinations, this should only increase with the opening of Tulum Airport.
Need more info on this airport? Check out the Tulum Airport Wiki page, or this Cancun Sun article.
Tulum Travel Planning Guide
1. Should I buy Mexico travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
2. Can you drink the water in Tulum?
No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. (Read more)
3. Is it safe to rent a car in Tulum?
Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. (Read more)
4. Will my phone work in Tulum?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy this Telcel SIM Card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. (Read more)
5. What’s the best way to book my Tulum accommodations?
For Tulum hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb.
6. What do I pack for Tulum?
Head to the Ultimate Tulum Packing List to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.
7. What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?
For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
8. Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you do a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa or passport stamp upon arrival.