The Cancun International Airport, also known as the “Lic. Benito Juárez” Cancun International Airport (CUN), is one of Mexico’s most important airports and a prominent transportation hub in the Caribbean region. It is located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, and this airport has become an essential gateway for millions of tourists from around the world who are seeking to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of Cancun and its surroundings.
The strategic location of Cancun and its airport have played a crucial role in positioning the city as one of the most popular and prestigious tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Every year, millions of visitors from around the world arrive at this airport in search of unforgettable experiences and moments of relaxation under the radiant sun of the Riviera Maya.
[php snippet=1]Do you need a private transfer service from Cancun Airport to any hotel in the Riviera Maya? Then don’t hesitate any longer and book your private transportation service with us right now from here.
How to leave Cancun Airport?
In essence, Cancun Airport is located very close to the entrance of the city center and the hotel zone. To be more precise: it is situated on Avenida Colosio, also known as ‘Carretera federal Cancún – Chetumal’ or ‘Carretera Federal Cancún – Playa del Carmen’.
To leave Cancun Airport for your next destination, which could be downtown Cancun, the hotel zone, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Costa Mujeres, Playa Mujeres, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum, among other destinations in the Riviera Maya, you can choose from one of the following transportation methods: private transfer, private taxi, ADO bus, and car rental.
As you can see, the options are limited to only 4 types of transportation. And Uber? No, unfortunately, Uber is not yet available to operate within Cancun Airport, and therefore, this option as a means of transportation to leave Cancun Airport is ruled out.
What is the best means of transportation to leave from Cancun Airport? The optimal mode of transportation to depart from Cancun Airport to any destination in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, or even outside of these areas is the private transfer service.
While it’s a service that tends to be a bit pricey, it offers comfort, peace of mind, privacy, speed, friendly service, and, of course, won’t keep you waiting longer than necessary. If this is the choice you need to stop worrying and start enjoying your vacation, you can make a reservation right here.
[php snippet=1]As a second option, we have the taxi transfer service that we can request from Cancun Airport. However, this service is limited only to transportation to Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Playa del Carmen. Going a bit further is not allowed.
This is because conventional taxi services do not have a federal license and therefore cannot transport passengers to places farther away from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
One of the disadvantages of this service is “the fares” and the “time”. Regarding the fares, it’s common for them not to be “adhered to” and they might even charge you more than the private transfer. And as for time, it’s necessary to remember that you have to wait in “line” to board.
The ADO bus, shared transfer, or public transportation as “visitors call it,” is a shared transport service that we can take from Cancun Airport and takes between 30 minutes to an hour to depart from the airport.
The waiting time is relative to the destination. What does this mean? If you are going to the city of Cancun, you would have to wait for 30 minutes to board, but if you need to go to Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Tulum, etc., the waiting time could be 1 hour or a little more.
It’s worth mentioning that this service doesn’t “take you to the hotel” itself; it takes you to the downtown of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. In other destinations like Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, and Akumal, it would only drop you “along the federal highway” and not directly at the destination.
Flights Departures and Arrivals at Cancun Airport
Cancun International Airport features modern and functional departure and arrival terminals that provide an efficient and comfortable travel experience for passengers. These terminals are designed to handle the high traffic of domestic and international flights that converge at this significant transportation hub.
Departures from Cancun Airport
The Departure Terminal of the airport is the starting point for travelers who wish to board their flights to various destinations. Here, passengers can complete the check-in process, go through security checks, and access the waiting lounges before boarding their planes. The terminal is equipped with essential services such as airline counters, information points, duty-free shops, and restaurants, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy amenities before their flight.
[php snippet=4]Below is the real-time flight departures table from Cancun Airport, along with the status of each flight, airline, and departure terminal.
Arrivals at Cancun International Airport
The Arrival Terminal welcomes passengers who have landed in Cancun from various parts of the world. Here, travelers can disembark and go through the necessary immigration and customs procedures before collecting their luggage. The terminal is equipped with ground transportation services, tourist information counters, and car rental agencies, facilitating transportation to their accommodations or desired tourist destinations.
The Arrival Terminal is also a place where passengers are greeted by their loved ones, creating a warm and exciting atmosphere upon reuniting after their journeys.
[php snippet=3]Below is the real-time flight arrivals table to Cancun, including the status of each flight, airline, and arrival terminal.
Location and Connectivity
The airport’s connectivity is one of its standout attributes. It serves as a significant transportation hub for both domestic and international flights. From here, travelers can easily access a wide variety of destinations within Mexico and around the globe. In addition to being a starting point to explore the wonders of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun International Airport is a gateway to other popular destinations in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, and beyond.
Below is a table of airlines operating within Cancun Airport.
| Airline | Terminal | Contact Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Aeroméxico | Terminal 3 | +52 55 5133 4000 |
| American Airlines | Terminal 3 | +1 800 433 7300 |
| Delta Air Lines | Terminal 3 | +1 800 221 1212 |
| United Airlines | Terminal 3 | +1 800 864 8331 |
| British Airways | Terminal 3 | +44 345 222 111 |
| Air Canada | Terminal 3 | +1 888 247 2262 |
| Interjet | Terminal 2 | +52 55 1102 5555 |
| Volaris | Terminal 2 | +52 55 1102 8000 |
| Copa Airlines | Terminal 3 | +1 800 359 2672 |
| Spirit Airlines | Terminal 2 | +1 801 401 2222 |
| Southwest Airlines | Terminal 2 | +1 800 435 9792 |
| VivaAerobus | Terminal 2 | +52 81 8215 0150 |
| JetBlue Airways | Terminal 3 | +1 800 538 2583 |
| Sun Country Airlines | Terminal 2 | +1 651 905 2737 |
| Frontier Airlines | Terminal 2 | +1 801 401 9000 |
| LATAM Airlines | Terminal 2 | +1 866 435 9526 |
| WestJet | Terminal 3 | +1 888 937 8538 |
| Eurowings | Terminal 3 | +49 180 6 320 320 |
| Lufthansa | Terminal 3 | +1 800 645 3880 |
| Edelweiss Air | Terminal 3 | +41 43 816 50 60 |
To facilitate the arrival and departure of passengers, Cancun International Airport features modern departure and arrival terminals. Terminal 2, inaugurated in 2007, and Terminal 3, which opened its doors in 2013, have been designed to provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience. Additionally, security protocols and services have been implemented to ensure the well-being of passengers during their journey.
In addition to commercial flights, the airport also receives a significant number of charter flights and private flights, further increasing its air traffic and relevance in the tourism industry.
Infrastructure and Services
Cancun International Airport stands out for its modern infrastructure and a wide range of services designed to provide comfort and satisfaction to the millions of passengers who pass through its facilities each year. From arrival to departure, travelers enjoy a complete experience that combines operational efficiency with comforts and entertainment.
Terminals
The airport features three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Each of these terminals handles both international and domestic flights, and they are connected by internal transportation services such as shuttles and covered walkways, facilitating passenger transit between them. The terminals are equipped with rest areas, dining zones, and a variety of shops and boutiques offering local and international products.
Terminal 1
Cancun International Airport’s Terminal 1, also known as the National Terminal, was the first to be built and has undergone various renovations to accommodate the growing traffic of domestic passengers. While its main focus is serving domestic flights, it also handles some international flights by airlines operating mixed routes.
In Terminal 1, passengers will find a variety of essential services for their convenience, such as airline check-in counters, ground transportation service offices, restaurants, and shops. Additionally, services for passengers with reduced mobility are offered to ensure that everyone can access the facilities without difficulty.
Despite being surpassed in size and capacity by the other terminals at the airport, Terminal 1 remains a fundamental part of the complex and continues to provide quality service to national travelers choosing Cancun as their destination.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 is one of the busiest terminals at Cancun International Airport and has undergone significant expansions and improvements to meet the growing demand for international and domestic flights. It serves as the main terminal for many low-cost airlines and charter flights.
With modern design and spacious service areas, Terminal 2 offers a seamless experience for passengers. Numerous check-in counters, information points, restaurants, cafés, and shops offering a diverse selection of products and souvenirs can be found here. Additionally, passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi access while waiting for their flights.
Terminal 2 also features a VIP lounge, where travelers seeking a more exclusive level of comfort can relax and enjoy additional services before boarding their flights.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is the newest and most modern at Cancun International Airport. Inaugurated in 2013, it was built to accommodate the growing traffic of international flights and has become a symbol of Cancun’s tourist importance in the region.
This terminal offers ample spaces and avant-garde architecture. Inside, passengers will find a wide selection of shops, restaurants, cafés, and essential services. Airline counters are arranged to streamline the check-in process, and information points provide assistance for passengers to easily navigate.
Terminal 3 also houses high-end VIP lounges where travelers can relax and enjoy additional comforts before embarking on their journeys.
Commercial and Duty-Free Areas
Cancun International Airport hosts an extensive commercial area, where passengers can enjoy a tax-free shopping experience. Shops featuring recognized brands, region-specific souvenirs, handcrafted products, and fine jewelry are just a few of the options available to travelers. The diversity of shops allows passengers to make the most of their waiting time by shopping and taking a piece of Mexico with them.
Restaurants and Gastronomy
The culinary offering at the airport is equally impressive. Travelers can indulge in a wide variety of restaurants and cafés that offer everything from traditional Mexican dishes to international cuisine options. Whatever their preference, passengers will find exquisite flavors that cater to all tastes.
Essential Services
Cancun International Airport offers a range of essential services to ensure passengers have a pleasant experience. These include ATMs, currency exchange offices, car rental services, luggage storage lockers, assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility, and breastfeeding areas for nursing mothers. Additionally, the airport provides free Wi-Fi access for passengers, allowing them to stay connected during their time at the facilities.
VIP Lounges
For those seeking a premium travel experience, Cancun International Airport has VIP lounges offering additional comforts, such as rest areas, complimentary beverages and food, spa services, personalized assistance, and high-speed connectivity. These lounges provide a tranquil oasis for travelers who wish to relax before their flights.
In conclusion, the infrastructure and services of Cancun International Airport, “Lic. Benito Juárez,” are designed to ensure that every stage of the journey, from arrival to departure, is a pleasant and satisfying experience for all passengers fortunate enough to pass through this prominent airport.
Importance for Tourism
Cancun International Airport plays a fundamental role in the development and positioning of tourism in the Mexican Caribbean region. Its strategic location, connectivity to various national and international destinations, and capacity to handle a high volume of passengers make it a key driver for Mexico’s tourism industry.
Gateway to the Mexican Caribbean: The airport serves as the primary gateway to the Mexican Caribbean, a region known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and unparalleled natural beauty. Thanks to its world-class infrastructure and ability to receive flights from around the world, Cancun International Airport has been instrumental in attracting millions of eager tourists looking to explore Mexico’s most iconic tourist destinations.
Boost to Sun and Beach Tourism: Cancun and the Riviera Maya have become synonymous with sun and beach tourism. The easy access provided by the airport has greatly contributed to the success of this type of tourism. Visitors flock to the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean to enjoy water activities, relax in luxurious resorts, explore coral reefs, and marvel at the region’s rich biodiversity.
Internationally Recognized Tourist Destination: The Cancun Airport has been a crucial factor in making Cancun and its surroundings internationally recognized tourist destinations. Backed by top-notch airport infrastructure, the airport has helped position the region as an attractive place for tourists from all over the world. The combination of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, a rich culinary scene, and a wide range of cultural and entertainment activities has solidified Cancun’s reputation as a world-class destination.
Employment Generator and Economic Development: Tourism is one of the main sources of income and employment in the Mexican Caribbean region, and Cancun International Airport plays an essential role in this aspect. The influx of visitors arriving through the airport creates a constant demand for tourism services, generating direct and indirect employment in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, restaurants, entertainment, and local commerce. Additionally, tourism activities significantly contribute to the region’s economic development.
Promoter of Cultural Exchange: Cancun Airport has acted as a significant facilitator of cultural exchange between Mexico and other countries. By welcoming passengers from various nationalities, the airport has fostered interaction between cultures, promoting the richness and diversity of Mexican heritage and encouraging understanding and respect among different cultures.
Conclusion
Cancun International Airport, “Lic. Benito Juárez,” is much more than a transportation hub. It is a gateway to a world of natural, cultural, and touristic wonders that has captivated millions of travelers from around the globe. With its modern terminals, quality services, and global connectivity, the airport has been the driving force behind tourism in the Mexican Caribbean region.
From its beginnings as a modest airfield, Cancun Airport has undergone exponential growth, making it one of the busiest and most prestigious airports in Latin America. Its three terminals, coupled with a diverse selection of airlines, have allowed travelers from all corners of the world to easily access the treasures that the Riviera Maya and Cancun have to offer.
This transportation center has been the backdrop for countless stories of adventures, discoveries, and emotions for those who visit. From families seeking unforgettable moments to couples in search of the perfect romantic getaway, Cancun Airport has been the starting point for a wide variety of unforgettable experiences.
Furthermore, the airport’s economic and social impact has been noteworthy. It has generated employment, spurred infrastructure development, promoted commerce, and contributed to the country’s economic growth. Mexico’s cultural richness has been enhanced through the exchange of cultures that takes place within its terminals.
Cancun International Airport plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism and economic development in Mexico. Its commitment to service excellence and attention to detail has left a lasting impression on the hearts of those who have had the privilege to visit.
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