In a strategic move to elevate Tulum’s prominence on the global travel map, Mexico’s President López Obrador recently announced plans for a new airport in Quintana Roo. Anticipated to opened in December 2023, this development is poised to revolutionize travel to the popular beach town, providing a convenient gateway for both high-profile visitors arriving by private jet and regular travelers.
The project comes amid a surge of new developments in the Tulum region, with over 12 properties and resorts in the planning stages. Notable among them is the eco-conscious Lúum Zama, a gated community featuring 204 apartments, 167 rooms, and 16 private villas, designed by DNA architects. Luxury branded resorts eyeing the jungle biosphere area of Sian Ka’an, including Dream Hotels’ Central Park Lagunas, Central Park Rios, and The Beach Club, contribute to the area’s burgeoning appeal.
Highlighting the Tulum market’s limited accessibility due to reduced flights from Europe to Cancún and cautious Canadian travelers, the new airport is a strategic response to cater to growing tourism demands. The facility will be equipped with a luxury terminal for high-profile arrivals and a regular terminal for all travelers, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity.
Addressing concerns that the new airport might divert traffic from Cancún airport, President López Obrador assured that both airports can coexist, emphasizing the ample room for growth in the region. He also drew attention to the upcoming Maya Train project, set to commence operations in 2023, further enhancing connectivity.
Situated across two government lots near Tulum, one owned by the Ministry of Communications and Transportation and the other by the Ministry of the Navy, the airport is a collaborative effort with military engineers involved in its construction. This approach mirrors the successful model employed for the new Mexico City airport.
The initiative aims to streamline travel to Tulum, eliminating the need for visitors to fly into Cancun International Airport and endure a lengthy drive south. Currently, the journey from Cancun to Tulum can take up to three hours during peak times. As one of the most sought-after destinations along Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, Tulum’s appeal is set to soar with this new airport, making it more accessible and enticing for travelers worldwide.