Puerto Vallarta Airport All You Need To Know

Puerto Vallarta Airport is a major international gateway located in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. Named after former President Gustavo Díaz Ordaz, it’s conveniently situated just 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles) north of the city center. This strategic location allows it to serve not only Puerto Vallarta but also nearby tourist destinations like Nuevo Vallarta, Punta Mita, Sayulita and others.

A common question travelers have is whether there are two airports in Puerto Vallarta. The answer is no; there is only one airport serving both domestic and international flights. In this article, we’ll provide you with essential information and insider tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through one of Mexico’s busiest airports.

How Busy Is Puerto Vallarta Airport

The remarkable growth of Puerto Vallarta Airport underscores its importance as a key gateway for travelers exploring this beautiful region of Mexico. In 2021, the Airport handled over 5 million passengers, firmly establishing itself as one of Mexico’s busiest airports.

In 2022, it soared to new heights, achieving its highest passenger traffic in history. According to Grupo Aeroportuario Pacific (GAP), the airport’s operator, over 6.2 million travelers passed through its doors during the year, marking a remarkable milestone.

The airport’s December 2022 statistics report reveals significant growth. In the national passenger segment, PVR welcomed 251,000 passengers in December, an astounding 50% increase compared to December 2019.

In December 2022, the PVR airport also experienced an 11% increase in operations and a remarkable 36% growth in seat offerings.

Presently, the airport serves a total of 49 destinations, comprising 12 national and 37 international routes, operated by a network of 23 airlines – 7 national and 16 international carriers.

Puerto Vallarta Airport Destinations

Several major airlines operate flights to and from Puerto Vallarta Airport, connecting the city to destinations across North America, Central America, and Europe.

Some key carriers include Aeroméxico, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. These airlines offer a variety of direct and connecting flights, with popular routes to cities like Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Vancouver, and Toronto.

Additionally, during peak seasons, seasonal and charter flights by Sunwing Airlines, TUI Airways, and Eurowings cater to European travelers, with routes to cities like London, Manchester, and Frankfurt.

Does Puerto Vallarta Airport Have Free Wifi

For tech-savvy travelers, Puerto Vallarta Airport provides free Wi-Fi under the network name “GAP FREE WIFI.” Simply connect, open your web browser, and accept the terms and conditions on the login page.

Be aware that the Wi-Fi service may have usage limitations and variable connection speeds, depending on user demand.

Vip Lounge Puerto Vallarta Airport

For those seeking a comfortable and exclusive space before their flight, Puerto Vallarta Airport offers VIP lounges. These provide amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks, television, and reading materials.

Access to most VIP lounges requires a membership to an affiliated program, a specific credit card, or a one-time access pass. Currently, there are four distinct VIP lounges at the airport, each catering to different needs:

• VIP Lounge Puerto Vallarta National (Terminal 1 – National Departures)
• VIP Lounge Puerto Vallarta International (Terminal 2 – International Departures)
• VIP Lounge Puerto Vallarta Llegadas (Located left of immigration and customs checkpoints)
• Sherpa Masaje Express (Three locations in Terminal 1)

Puerto Vallarta Currency Exchange

Puerto Vallarta Airport offers various banking services to cater to your financial needs. ATMs inside the airport are serviced by banks like Yvesam, Scotiabank, Banorte, and HSBC, and they are conveniently located in both national and international areas.

Additionally, there’s a currency money exchange Puerto Vallarta service provided by Global Exchange in three different locations inside Terminal 1: domestic arrivals, before security, and after security checkpoints.

Starbucks Vallarta Airport

If you’re in need of a caffeine fix or a quick snack, you’ll find a Starbucks Coffee inside the airport. They also provide a spacious seating area for customers to relax before or after their flight.

For travelers looking for high-end luxury items at tax-free prices, there are duty-free shops at the airport. These shops offer a wide range of products, including perfumes, jewelry, and electronics.

Some of the shops you’ll find inside the airport include Pineda Covalin, Dufy, Divers, and Cloe. If you require last-minute essentials, there are also convenience stores offering snacks, drinks, and other travel necessities.

When Should I Get To The Airport For An International Flight

To ensure a stress-free experience at Puerto Vallarta Airport, we recommend arriving at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This extra time allows for check-in, security procedures, and immigration or customs processes.

During Puerto Vallarta high season, consider arriving even earlier to account for potential delays or increased wait times.

Puerto Vallarta Customs

The time it takes to clear customs at Puerto Vallarta Airport can vary, typically ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour. Several factors influence this, including the time of day, the number of arriving passengers, and customs staff efficiency. ‘

Be prepared for longer processing times during peak travel periods or holidays. To ensure a smooth experience, have all your travel documents ready.

Puerto Vallarta High Season

Lastly, understanding the busiest days at Puerto Vallarta Airport can help you plan your trip more effectively. While it can vary depending on the time of year, holidays, and special events, the airport generally experiences high traffic during peak tourist seasons, which include the months of December through April.

Additionally, weekends tend to be busier than weekdays, as more travelers arrive and depart.

Puerto Vallarta Airport Transportation

For over 52 years, TPV Puerto Vallarta Airport Transportation has been your trusted partner in delivering top-notch tourism services. We are proud to be authorized by the Federal Government, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety for our valued travelers.