Cancun Airport: The Ultimate Guide

Cancun International Airport is one of the most important airports in Mexico and Latin America located on the Caribbean shores of Mexico in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Cancun Airport is the second busiest airport in Mexico after Mexico City International Airport but the biggest for international passengers, only last year 2023, the Cancun International Airport had almost 34.9 million passengers. 

Cancun Airport Location  

Cancun Airport Flights to the World

Where is the Cancun Airport located? Cancun Airport is the primary gateway that allows travelers to discover many destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Puerto Morelos, and more.

Cancun International Airport is located in the Quintana Roo State in the Yucatan Peninsula and the main road Cancun-Chetumal 307,  kilometer 22.

Cancun Airport Terminals

Cancun Airport has 4 terminals and 1 FBO, each with a different proposal. Due to the number of daily flights, the construction of an additional terminal, to be called Terminal 4, was considered in 2015.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is the main of Cancun International Airport where manage charter flights. These flights are usually from North America and are smaller than the other terminals at Cancun Airport. 

Cancun Airport Terminal 1

Terminal 2

This Terminal in the Airport of Cancun manages domestic and international flights to South America, Europe, and Central America. In addition, Terminal 2 is located between Terminal 1 and 3, which means that Terminal 2 boasts the best location in the center.

In Terminal 2, all the visitors will feel comfortable with the establishment’s luxury and VIP by Aeromexico.

Cancun Airport Terminal 2

Terminal 3 

Flights from international airlines of the United States and some flights from Canada and Europe land at Terminal 3.

Cancun Airport Terminal 3

Terminal 4 

Terminal 4 was inaugurated in October 2017 and is the newest terminal at Cancun Airport. This terminal only receives international flights to the USA, Canada, Europe, and South America. 

Cancun Airport Terminal 4

What are the airlines operating at the Cancun airport?

Cancun International Airport receives more than 50 different airlines from all over the world during the year. However, before you go to Cancun probably you’ll need to know which terminal will receive your flight. Here is the list:

Terminal 2 Airlines: 

  • Aeromexico.
  • Aerolineas Argentinas
  • Alaska.
  • Blue Panorama Airlines.
  • CopaAirlines.
  • Cubana de Aviación.
  • Corsair Airlines.
  • Volaris.
  • Magnicharters.
  • Sunwing.
  • VivaAerobus.

Terminal 3 Airlines:

  • AirEuropa.
  • American Airlines.
  • Frontier Airlines.
  • Austrian Airlines.
  • Eurofly.
  • Euro Atlantic Airways.
  • Iberia Airlines.
  • Jet Blue 
  • Air Canada.
  • Delta Airlines.
  • United Airlines.

Terminal 4 Airlines: 

  • Spirit Airlines
  • Condor Airlines 
  • Blue Panorama Airlines

Arrivals and Departures at Cancun Airport

You’ll need to check out the Cancun Airport Arrivals and Cancun Airport Departures to finally know if your flights are delayed, landed, or canceled. 

Baggage at the Cancun International Airport

Baggage at Cancun Airport

It’s important to know the baggage regulations to ensure a smooth process when traveling to or from Cancun Airport. Here is relevant information about the checked baggage and carry-on baggage:

Checked baggage

Weight and Size Limits: Check with your airline for specific weight and size limits for checked baggage. Generally, the allowed weight is 23 kg (50 pounds) per suitcase, which can vary depending on the airline and your ticket class.

Prohibited and Restricted Items: Learn about the items that are prohibited in checked luggage, such as hazardous goods, loose lithium batteries, and certain types of food and beverages.

Identification: Make sure to clearly label your luggage with your name, address, and phone number, both inside and out, to facilitate its identification in case of loss.

Carry-on Baggage 

Carry-On Baggage Size: The allowed size for carry-on luggage varies by airline, but a common measurement is 56 x 36 x 23 cm. Check your airline’s specifications before packing.

Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAG): LAGs must be in containers of 100 ml (3.4 ounces) or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag, with a maximum capacity of 1 liter per passenger.

Personal Items: In addition to your carry-on baggage, you are usually allowed to bring one personal item, such as a purse, laptop, or camera.

Baggage Tips

Smart Packing: Pack only what you need and consider using compression bags to save space. Bring clothing that can be mixed and matched in various ways to reduce the quantity.

Valuables: Carry valuable items, important documents, and medications in your carry-on luggage to avoid losses.

Security: Consider using TSA-approved locks for your checked luggage. These allow airport security to inspect your suitcase without damaging the lock.

Online Check-In: Many airlines offer the option of online check-in, which can save you time at the airport, especially if you’re traveling with carry-on luggage only.

Baggage Claim: Upon arrival at Cancun Airport, check the information screens to find out which carousel is assigned to your flight for picking up your checked luggage.

Cancun Airport Transportation

Cancun Airport Transportation and Cancun Luxury Transportation

When you arrive at the Cancun Airport, you’ll need to transfer to your hotel destination to drop off your baggage before you begin your adventure. 

What are the Cancun Airport Transportation options? Here is a list of the types of transportation available at the Airport:

Private Transportation: Private transportation is a great option if you want a reliable, comfortable, and less expensive transfer. With this alternative, you won’t have to wait long to get to your hotel thanks to the method of booking in advance. In addition, this Cancun Airport Transportation option makes it faster to arrive anywhere. 

Taxi: Taxis are another transportation alternative. Taxis can be an option if you have a flight emergency and don’t have time to book in advance. 

ADO: ADO buses always are there, but this transport only will take you to Cancun Downtown, at ADO Station, so when you arrive there, you’ll need another transport or to take a taxi to transfer you again. 

Car Rental: Near Cancun Airport there are car rental companies that are ideal for you to transfer on your own. Many companies offer affordable rates for different budgets.