The much-anticipated Tulum International Airport, officially designated as Aeropuerto Internacional de Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto (TQO), commenced operations on 1st December 2023, marking a pivotal moment in the connectivity of the Yucatan Peninsula's Riviera Maya region. This "Tulum airport opening date" has been a buzzword among travellers eager to explore the enchanting city of Tulum and its nearby attractions.

Nestled in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, the airport lies just 18 miles from the heart of Tulum. This strategic location significantly reduces the travel time from the previously used Cancun Airport, located 73 miles away. With this development, destinations such as Akumal, Bacalar, and the Tulum Mayan Ruins are now more accessible than ever.

Boasting a capacity to accommodate 5.5 million passengers annually, with plans for expansion to handle up to 40 million, the airport is a marvel of modern infrastructure. It features a spacious parking area, top-notch security, and sustainable energy solutions, including solar panels. Employment opportunities arising from the airport are a boon to the local economy, reinforcing the airport's significance.

Transportation from the airport includes official shuttle services, car rentals from leading companies, and ADO Bus public transport. However, those wondering, "Is there Uber in Tulum?" should note that rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are currently not available due to local regulations.

In line with the region's development, the Mayan Train Project, set to launch in December 2023, will further enhance travel convenience across Quintana Roo and neighboring states, knitting together key destinations including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and more.

The air travel landscape is quickly evolving, with airlines like Delta, American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines launching routes from various U.S. cities to Tulum since April 2024. This expansion is poised to cement the Tulum International Airport (TQO) as a vital hub for tourism in the region.

Tulum witnessed a historic moment when the pilot of the inaugural American Airlines flight from Dallas to Tulum waved the Mexican flag out of the cockpit window in a unifying gesture.

In May 2024, Canadian airline, Air Canada, touched down in Tulum, marking the beginning of its Toronto and Montreal routes, operating 3 times a week.

WestJet, also announced new flights to Tulum starting 9 November 2024 from Toronto and Calgary.

It’s not only North America rushing to launch flightpaths to Tulum. German carrier, Lufthansa, will be the first European airline to service TQO. The airline plans to offer 2 weekly flights directly connecting Munich to Tulum starting December 2024.

Copa Airlines has also announced direct flights from Panama City to Tulum starting summer 2025.

Once you’ve landed, where do you stay? Well, that’s easy. Casa Tira, one of Tulum’s most prestigious villas, is only a 30-minute drive from the airport, offering an exquisite stay for those seeking top-tier accommodations.

Take a quick tour of Casa Tira Tulum

Tulum's cultural scene is buzzing with excitement, with recent events such as Rufus Du Sol, Tomorrowland and the iconic Afterlife. These events attract a global audience, now more accessible thanks to the new airport, transforming Tulum into a hotspot for music and cultural festivals.

In conclusion, Tulum International Airport is not just a gateway to the Riviera Maya's treasures but also a catalyst for economic growth and cultural exchange, enhancing the travel experience to Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

P.S. If you’re wondering what to do once you touchdown in Tulum, read our Insider’s Guide To Tulum’s Top 10 Attractions for 2024.

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