Airport Access Fees Set Tulum’s New Norm

TULUM, Mexico – Amidst escalating concerns from transportation companies regarding the federal zone usage fee at Tulum International Airport, the local government, in collaboration with the National Defense Secretariat (Sedena), has firmly defended the established pricing, deeming it crucial for ensuring profitability.

The current fee system, administered by Sedena, targets tourism transport businesses and workers under the “sporadic access” category. This levy of 934 pesos per entry is imposed to utilize the airport’s federal zone, primarily for picking up tourists. Jorge Molina, Director of Tourism and Economy for the Tulum municipality, emphasized the necessity for tourism enterprises and lodging facilities to adapt their perspectives to the evolving tourism landscape in Tulum. With a significant portion of the market comprising high-income visitors, Molina argues that the airport’s federal zone usage fees are strategically set to foster commercial profitability.

Molina further pointed out that many transport companies voicing opposition to Sedena’s fees primarily operate out of Cancun, seeking to expand their customer base into Tulum’s tourist sector. He encourages these companies to register with the Tulum municipality’s business registry, enabling their inclusion in upcoming tourism service catalogs created in partnership with the private sector. This initiative not only aims to enrich the airport’s commercial zone but also to enhance municipal revenues.

“Thus, I extend an invitation to transportation companies to formalize their operations with the municipal treasury and join Tulum’s business community,” Molina stated, highlighting the importance of integration into the local economic ecosystem.

He noted that Tulum International Airport is slated to offer three distinct service categories: commercial, cargo, and private flights, with the current fee structure endorsed by aviation authorities. The official also sees the diversification of airport transportation as an opportunity for Tulum hotels to elevate their offerings by incorporating guest transport services, contingent on their willingness to invest.

This proactive stance by Tulum’s government and Sedena illustrates a broader strategy to enhance the region’s tourism infrastructure, aligning service levels with the expectations of its affluent visitor demographic. As the area continues to grow as a premier travel destination, integrating comprehensive transport solutions emerges as a critical component in sustaining Tulum’s economic and tourism development.