The buzz around Tulum has been steadily growing, and with the grand opening of the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO), reaching this sought-after destination in Mexico has become remarkably easier. For years, travelers have had to fly into Cancun and then endure a significant two-hour drive south to reach Tulum. Those days are transforming, thanks to this pivotal new airport. If you’re wondering whether Southwest Airlines is among the carriers making your trip to Tulum more direct, let’s explore the current flight landscape and what it means for your travel plans.
Currently, Southwest Airlines does not offer direct flights to Tulum. While Southwest is renowned for its extensive network throughout the Americas, including numerous destinations in Mexico, they have not yet announced routes to the newly opened Tulum International Airport. However, this doesn’t mean your dream of a seamless journey to Tulum is out of reach. The good news is that a variety of other major U.S. airlines have already begun or are slated to commence international service to Tulum, providing you with excellent alternatives.
Which Airlines Offer Flights to Tulum?
As of now, Tulum International Airport is initially focused on domestic flights, primarily operated by VivaAerobus and Aeromexico, connecting Tulum with major Mexican cities like Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, Tijuana, and Toluca. However, the game truly changes with the arrival of international flights, which began on March 28, 2024. A strong lineup of U.S. carriers are now serving Tulum, making it more accessible than ever for international travelers.
Here are the international airlines currently operating or soon to launch flights to Tulum:
- American Airlines: American Airlines is making a significant commitment to Tulum, offering twice-daily flights from Dallas/Fort Worth and daily service from Charlotte and Miami. This robust schedule provides numerous connection options across the U.S.
- Delta Air Lines: Delta Air Lines initiated daily flights between Atlanta and Tulum starting March 28, 2024. Atlanta serves as a major hub for Delta, opening up vast connection possibilities.
- JetBlue: JetBlue commenced daily service from New York’s JFK in June. For those in the Northeast and beyond, this offers a convenient direct route to Tulum.
- Spirit Airlines: Spirit Airlines provides budget-friendly options with daily flights from Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, catering to travelers seeking value and direct routes from these popular Florida locations.
- United Airlines: United Airlines offers extensive service to Tulum with daily flights from major hubs including Newark, Los Angeles, Chicago O’Hare, and Houston, ensuring wide coverage across the United States.
According to aviation experts at CAPA – Centre for Aviation, Tulum Airport boasts a substantial capacity of up to 5.5 million passengers annually. This indicates the airport’s readiness to handle a significant influx of both domestic and international visitors, promising efficient and smoother travel experiences.
The Strategic Location of Tulum Airport
The Tulum airport’s location is a key advantage. Situated approximately 20 miles southwest of Tulum proper, it significantly reduces travel time to the hotel zone and beaches compared to flying into Cancun. While the initial journey from the airport to central Tulum might take around an hour, ongoing infrastructure developments, particularly the connector road to Highway 307, are expected to shorten this commute considerably. This improved access is anticipated to be in place to coincide with the increase in international flights, further enhancing the travel experience.
In contrast, consider the previous primary gateway: Cancun International Airport. Cancun is located 81 miles north of Tulum, translating to a two-hour drive, often longer with traffic. The new Tulum airport effectively cuts down this land travel portion, allowing you to reach your Tulum destination faster and more comfortably. Upon arrival at Tulum Airport, transportation options include local taxis, the ADO bus system, and private transfer services. It’s important to note that rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are not permitted at the Tulum airport due to local regulations, similar to much of Quintana Roo.
Furthermore, the Tulum airport is planned to integrate with the Maya Train project. While currently in partial operation, the Maya Train aims to connect Cancun and Tulum with other key destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula, including Merida, Palenque, and Bacalar. Once fully completed, the train station at Tulum Airport will offer an alternative and potentially scenic mode of transport to explore the wider region.
Tulum’s Ongoing Development and Nearby Destinations
Tulum itself continues to evolve as a premier travel destination. While retaining its unique bohemian charm, Tulum now offers a diverse range of accommodations, from intimate boutique hotels to luxurious all-inclusive resorts. The area is seeing ongoing development with new hotels planned, including MGallery and Nobu Hotel properties, indicating sustained growth and investment in Tulum’s tourism sector.
Beyond Tulum, the new airport serves as a gateway to explore other captivating destinations in the southern Yucatan Peninsula. For travelers seeking a more laid-back and eco-conscious atmosphere, Bacalar, a “Pueblo Mágico” known for its stunning lagoon, is approximately three hours south of the Tulum airport. Mahahual, with its pristine beaches and relaxed vibe, is also about three hours away. For the truly adventurous, Punta Allen, located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, offers a remote and rustic escape, roughly three hours from the airport.
Conclusion: Charting Your Course to Tulum
While Southwest Airlines isn’t currently flying to Tulum, the inauguration of Tulum International Airport has opened up a wealth of convenient flight options through other reputable airlines like American, Delta, JetBlue, Spirit, and United. These carriers provide numerous direct routes from major U.S. cities, making your journey to Tulum significantly more streamlined and enjoyable. With reduced travel times, expanding transportation infrastructure, and the allure of Tulum and surrounding gems, now is an ideal time to plan your visit to this captivating region of Mexico. Keep an eye on Southwest’s route network for future updates, but in the meantime, explore the readily available options to experience the paradise of Tulum.
