Tulum is a dream destination for many travelers, thanks to its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and hip restaurants. But currently, the nearest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport (CUN), which is about 1h30 away by car.
In this guide, you will find all the available information about the new airport, such as its location, opening date, capacity, and design. You will also learn how it will impact the Riviera Maya region and its connection to another major project: the Mayan Train (Tren Maya).
So, how will the new Tulum Airport transform your travel experience?
The New Tulum International Airport
While the journey from Cancun to Tulum is beautiful, there’s good news for those looking for a more direct route.
To cater to the increasing number of visitors to Tulum and further develop the Riviera Maya region, a plan to build a new international airport in Tulum has been proposed.
Officially named Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Carrillo Puerto, this airport project is set to change the travel dynamics in the region.
The airport’s initial phase will have the capacity for about 5.5 million annual passengers and up to 32 000 air operations each year.
It will include 13 positions for both domestic and international commercial aircraft, and a platform for general and executive aviation with 28 positions. Moreover, there will be a hangar with 12 extra spaces for executive planes.
They also announced the construction of a 6.5 miles (10.5 km) commercial and service corridor that will connect Federal Highway 307 and the New Tulum International Airport.
When is the opening date of the airport?
It was inaugurated on December 1, 2023 but it is expected to be fully operational by 2024.
Tulum Airport and Mayan Train Project. One Essential factor to consider with the establishment of the new Tulum Airport is its stategic relationship with the Mayan Train Project, expected for December 2024. Also known as “Tren Maya”, will traverse the states of Quintana Roo, Yucatán, Campeche, Chiapas and Tabasco, connectig significant tourist destinations such as Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar and Palenque. The combination of the Tulum Airport and the Mayan Train offers a promising scenario for tourisn in the region. Tourisrts will have the option to fly directly into Tulum, enjoy its unique offerings, and then board the Mayan Train to discover other parts of the Yucatan Peninsula.
