New Nonstop Routes Open Doors from U.S. Cities to Tulum

TULUM, Mexico – Excitement and anticipation have been building around the imminent launch of the Tulum International Airport, poised to commence operations this December.

In a recent development, VivaAerobus announced on Thursday its plans to initiate scheduled flights from major Mexican cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Tijuana. Adding to the buzz, Aeromexico unveiled yesterday that it would soon inaugurate flights departing from various locations across the United States and Canada.

The Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, located in Tulum, Quintana Roo, is set to open ahead of schedule. This airport is just one among several groundbreaking projects taking shape in the southeastern part of Mexico, coinciding with the forthcoming inauguration of the Mayan train.

The past summer has set new records for tourism in the region, and this year could potentially mark an all-time high for the Mexican Caribbean if the current statistics continue their upward trajectory.

The demand for travel to and from the Mexican Caribbean has put significant pressure on the Cancun International Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports, handling over 500 daily flights. It was only a matter of time before a new airport emerged to alleviate congestion and cater to the burgeoning demand.

Aeromexico has revealed plans to operate 14 domestic flights to the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, connecting major cities such as Toronto, San Francisco, and Chicago. These flights will provide direct access to the Riviera Maya, perfectly timed for the winter vacation season – the peak period for the Mexican Caribbean.

The airline’s statement reads, “This decision underscores Aeromexico’s commitment to Quintana Roo, where we provide seamless connectivity and exceptional service to and from Cancun, Chetumal, Cozumel, and now Tulum. Our total monthly seating capacity will exceed 221,000, marking a 6% increase compared to our current operations.”

This development holds immense promise for American tourists, who constitute a significant portion of the international visitors to the region. Tulum is positioning itself as a close second to the ever-popular Cancun.

Aeromexico has confirmed that itineraries and tickets will be available in the coming days, and with the airline’s reputation, bookings are expected to surge. Many Americans are likely to plan ahead for their winter vacations.

From January to June 2023, Aeromexico, a trusted industry player, transported 8,442,152 domestic passengers in 75,822 operations. This achievement has secured its position as the third-largest airline operator in Mexico’s domestic market.

With the airport still under construction, all eyes are on its timely completion. Airlines and passengers alike are eagerly awaiting the green light for operations.

The Mexican Army will oversee the airport, an investment totaling $48 million. The facility is projected to accommodate up to 5.5 million passengers and handle around 32,000 annual operations.

Currently categorized as Air Safety Category 2 by the United States Federal Administration, the airport is restricted from hosting direct flights from American Union cities. However, due to its codeshare partnership with Delta Air Lines, Aeromexico will be able to offer direct flights.

For Tulum International Airport to flourish commercially, regaining its Category 1 rating is crucial. This achievement would facilitate more flights from some of America’s most popular cities.

Jose Zapata, Vice President of Sales in Mexico for Aeromexico, expressed, “As Mexico’s flag carrier, we are thrilled to be part of the inauguration of this air terminal. Tulum and the south of the Riviera Maya are destinations close to the hearts of many of our customers, and they symbolize the incredible tourism our country has to offer.”

Aeromexico, as the third-largest airline operator, continues to bridge connections between Mexico and the world, boasting a network of over 100 routes – 57 domestic and 47 international. With a modern fleet and a reputation for impeccable service, the airline also offers one of the finest loyalty programs through Aeromexico Rewards.

If all goes as planned, Tulum Airport will begin operations concurrently with another highly anticipated project – the Mayan train – which aims to connect tourists across the region, linking airports and some of the most sought-after destinations.

One certainty remains: As tourism maintains its vigorous momentum in the Mexican Caribbean, government authorities are responding with determined actions to enhance offerings for tourists, ensuring they experience the dream vacation they’ve long envisioned.