United Airlines Touches Down in Tulum
TULUM, México – In a significant boost to the Quintana Roo’s connectivity and tourism, United Airlines recently inaugurated its international route to Tulum International Airport, carrying 146 passengers from Houston, Texas. This event marks the airport’s advancement in global connectivity, as it becomes the third American airline, following American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, to commence operations in Tulum since its opening four months ago. The arrival of United Airlines is part of a broader expansion, with more airlines from the United States, Canada, and Europe expected to join in enhancing Tulum’s accessibility in the coming months.
The successful launches of American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which brought approximately 700 international travelers to the region, have emphasized Tulum International Airport’s strategic positioning as a gateway to the Mexican Caribbean. United Airlines’ entry on March 31, with a ceremonial water salute, signifies the airport’s growing importance and the continuous effort to connect Tulum with major cities across the United States, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, Dallas, New York, Houston, and Chicago.
Bernardo Cueto Riestra, head of the Secretariat of Tourism (Sedetur), highlighted the strategic importance of these routes in strengthening air coverage from various U.S. cities. The expansion will continue with Air Canada’s expected arrivals from Montreal and Toronto and JetBlue and Copa Airlines’ upcoming flights. This growth in connectivity is seen as pivotal for Tulum’s tourism and economic development, opening doors to a broader international market.
Quintana Roo’s Governor, Mara Lezama Espinosa, celebrated this milestone, noting the significant influx of 1.2 million domestic and international visitors to the state’s 12 tourist destinations during the Easter holiday. The region boasted an 85% hotel occupancy rate and an average of 620 daily flights across its four airports in Cancún, Cozumel, Tulum, and Chetumal. This represents a 4.2% increase in tourist activity compared to the same period in 2023, underscoring Quintana Roo’s growing appeal as a premier destination.
The Tulum International Airport’s emergence as a key player in enhancing the Mexican Caribbean’s accessibility is a testament to the region’s growing appeal and the concerted efforts to bolster its tourism infrastructure. As airlines expand their routes to Tulum, the city will become even more accessible to international travelers, promising a significant boost to the local economy and reinforcing its status as a top tourist destination.
As we look to the future, the continued expansion of international flights to Tulum signifies not just the growth of the airport but also the broader potential for the region’s tourism sector. The increased connectivity is expected to bring a diverse range of tourists, further enriching the cultural tapestry of Tulum and surrounding areas. This development represents a significant milestone in Tulum’s journey towards becoming a globally recognized tourist destination, offering unique experiences that blend its rich Mayan heritage with its breathtaking natural landscapes.
