Swissport and Tulum Crafting Air Travel History

TULUM, México – The inauguration of Tulum’s new airport, officially named Felipe Carrillo Puerto, marks a significant milestone in the region’s journey towards becoming a premier destination for upscale tourism within the Yucatán Peninsula. This development was heralded by the touchdown of flight AA1131 from Dallas Fort Worth, signifying the commencement of the airport’s operations as the first and only provider of ground airport services in the area.

Swissport International, stepping into the role of ground services provider, played a pivotal role in this landmark event. The arrival of the international flight from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) on March 28 was not just a testament to Tulum’s expanding accessibility but also underscored Swissport’s crucial position in facilitating the airport’s operational success. Since its opening in December, the airport initially focused on domestic flights but has branched out into international services starting in March, signaling a new era in Tulum’s global connectivity.

Marcela Gaboda, the Executive Director of Swissport in Mexico, expressed pride and honor in the trust placed in Swissport by both the Tulum airport and international airlines. She highlighted Swissport’s reputation as a trusted partner for airlines and airports aiming for precise ground operations from the outset. With approximately 100 service professionals, Swissport will initially provide passenger services and ramp handling for leading airlines such as American Airlines, COPA, Delta, United, Air Canada, and JetBlue, covering over 60 weekly flights. This number is expected to rise as air traffic volumes to Tulum increase.

Swissport’s influence extends beyond Tulum. For over two decades, it has been a significant player in Mexican aviation, providing ground services and cargo handling. In 2023, Swissport’s 3,800 employees managed over 320,000 flights, serving nearly 22.6 million passengers across 14 airlines in 23 Mexican airports.

Rene Pascua, Swissport’s General Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasized Swissport’s integral role in supporting the launch of international aviation at Tulum Airport. He pointed out the region’s vast growth potential and Swissport’s aviation expertise and market-leading service quality as critical factors supporting the Riviera Maya’s tourism development and the aviation sector.

This new airport is not merely a tourist gateway but a catalyst for economic growth and development in Tulum and the surrounding Riviera Maya. It promises to boost the local economy by attracting high-end tourists, creating jobs, and fostering infrastructure development. Moreover, it positions Tulum as a competitive destination on the global tourism map, further enriching the Yucatán Peninsula’s offering to international travelers.

As Tulum’s new airport takes flight, it brings optimism for the region’s tourism and economic prospects. Its successful operation, underpinned by the expertise of companies like Swissport, signals a bright future for Tulum as a hub for international travelers seeking the unique experiences the Yucatán Peninsula offers.