La Union Airport

Welcome to Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), also known as La Union — your aerial gateway to the famous Amber Coast of the Dominican Republic! As soon as you step off the plane, you will feel the warm Caribbean breeze and a welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for your entire holiday. The airport was built in 1979 specifically to develop tourism in the north of the country and today serves as the perfect starting point for exploring this picturesque region. It is the fourth busiest airport in the Dominican Republic, serving hundreds of thousands of tourists annually.

The main advantage of the airport is its strategic location. It is located just a 20-30 minute drive from the city centre of Puerto Plata and popular resort areas such as Sosúa and Cabarete, making the transfer to your hotel quick and comfortable. Despite its relatively small size, Gregorio Luperón Airport offers all necessary services for travellers. Here you will find Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls with local crafts, several cafes and restaurants, as well as car rental offices. The modern terminal with 10 boarding gates ensures a sufficiently fast completion of all formalities, allowing you to begin or end your Caribbean adventure without unnecessary delays.

• Official Website: www.aerodom.com/puertoplata
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (809) 291-0000
• Address: Carretera Luperón, Km. 18, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the feedback form on the official website or write to info@aerodom.com.
• Social Media: Official pages of the airport operator (AERODOM) can be found on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram under the username @AerodomRD.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the airport information service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance, you may call the main airport number or utilize the online resources on the official website.

Gregorio Luperón Airport (POP), also known as La Union Airport, is located approximately 20-30 minutes by car from the city centre of Puerto Plata and serves the popular resorts of the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, including Sosúa and Cabarete. You can reach it in several ways, each having its own advantages.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most popular and convenient option for tourists. Official taxis can be found at the terminal exit. The journey to hotels in Puerto Plata will take about 20-30 minutes, to Sosúa — 10-15 minutes, and to Cabarete — 20-25 minutes. The cost is usually fixed and depends on the destination, but it is recommended to confirm the price with the driver before starting the trip. For greater peace of mind, you can book a transfer in advance through your hotel or an online service — in this case, you will be met with a name sign.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those planning to explore the region independently. Gregorio Luperón Airport hosts representatives of major international and local rental companies. You can pick up a car immediately upon arrival and set off on your journey. There is paid parking on the airport territory where you can safely leave your vehicle for both short and long terms.

Public Transport in the form of "gua-guas" buses is the most budget-friendly way to travel. However, it is worth noting that they do not enter the airport territory itself but stop on the main road a few hundred metres from the entrance. This option is suitable for travellers with light luggage wishing to save money and experience the local atmosphere. The trip will cost significantly less than a taxi but may take more time and require transfers. There is no metro or railway service in Puerto Plata.

Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), serving the resort region of Puerto Plata, is distinguished by a compact structure that is easy for passengers to understand. This significantly simplifies navigation and reduces the time spent on pre-flight formalities, which is especially appreciated by tourists arriving for holidays.

The airport consists of one main terminal that serves both international and domestic flights. Thanks to this, there is no need to transfer between different buildings — all zones are under one roof. The terminal layout is intuitive: it is divided into two main levels. On the ground floor, the arrivals area is located, where passengers go through passport control, collect luggage, and pass customs inspection. Tour operator counters and car rental offices are also located here.

The first floor is entirely dedicated to the departures area. Here, travellers find airline check-in counters, pass through security and passport control, after which they enter a spacious waiting lounge. The departure hall features several boarding gates, Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls, cafes, and bars where one can comfortably spend time before boarding the flight.

The time required to complete all procedures is usually short. On average, check-in and security screening take from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the load. Nevertheless, for international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure to go through all stages without rushing. Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties: signs are in Spanish and English, and the small size of the building makes it easy to orient yourself and quickly find the necessary zone.

Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), better known as Puerto Plata Airport, was inaugurated in 1979. Its construction was a key step in the implementation of the government's ambitious plan to transform the northern coast of the Dominican Republic into a major tourist hub. Until that moment, the region, known for its magnificent beaches, was difficult to access for foreign travellers. The appearance of a modern airport radically changed the situation, giving a powerful impetus to the development of the entire province.

From the very beginning, the airport was designed to handle large volumes of passengers and wide-body aircraft from Europe and North America. One of its main features was one of the longest runways in the Caribbean, which allowed it to receive even giants like the Boeing 747. This strategic decision ensured direct access to popular resorts such as Sosúa and Cabarete and secured the airport's status as the main aerial gateway to the famous Amber Coast (Costa de Ámbar).

Throughout its history, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation to meet growing requirements and international standards. One of the most significant events was the large-scale reconstruction of the runway in 2011, which completely renewed its surface and drainage system. Regular work has also been carried out to update the terminal, expand waiting areas, and improve passenger service quality, allowing it to remain a modern and convenient transport hub.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history, its name is worth noting. It is named after General Gregorio Luperón — a national hero and former president of the country, who was a native of Puerto Plata. For millions of tourists, the airport has become not just a point of arrival, but a symbol of the beginning of an unforgettable holiday on a tropical coast known for its golden sands and rich amber deposits.

Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP) in Puerto Plata represents a modern and convenient aerial gateway to the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. A wide range of services is available to passengers for a comfortable wait for their flight, making the journey pleasant from the very start.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops: In the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can grab a quick sandwich or enjoy a full meal with local and international cuisine. Duty Free shops offer a wide selection of perfumes, cosmetics, and other goods. Here you can also buy souvenirs, famous Dominican coffee, and local crafts as mementos.

Lounges and Wi-Fi: For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport operates a VIP Lounge (Sala VIP), offering a secluded atmosphere, complimentary snacks, beverages, and press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices are located in the waiting halls, so you can always stay connected.

Financial and Medical Services: Currency exchange points and ATMs operate at the airport, where you can easily exchange money for Dominican pesos or withdraw cash. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical station is available, ready to provide first aid.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs: The airport is equipped for the convenience of passengers with reduced mobility — ramps and accessible restrooms are available, and staff assistance is provided (it is recommended to book the service in advance through the airline). For travellers with small children, there are nursing rooms where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment.

Hotels and Business Services: There are no hotels within the airport building itself, however, numerous hotels and resort complexes are located just a few minutes' drive away. You can reach them by taxi or pre-booked transfer. Specialized conference halls are absent in the airport, but for business travellers, the VIP lounge can offer a quiet workspace with internet access.

At Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), serving Puerto Plata, passengers will find several decent options for a snack or a full meal while waiting for their flight. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in giant hub airports, you certainly won't go hungry.

The majority of dining establishments are concentrated in the departures area (airside), accessible after passing passport control and security screening. Here you will find a food court offering both familiar international brands and local cafes. For a quick and filling lunch, you can choose burgers at Wendy's or grab a slice of pizza at Sbarro. These spots are ideal for those who prefer familiar food.

If you wish to experience local flavour, visit Richmond Cafe & Bar. Here you can not only have a snack with a sandwich or pastries but also drink a cup of famous Dominican coffee while bidding farewell to Caribbean hospitality. In the public area before check-in (landside), the choice is usually limited to a small cafe where you can have coffee and a snack.

Passengers with special dietary requirements should be prepared for a limited selection. Vegetarians can generally find salads or vegetable side dishes on the menu. However, finding specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be difficult. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is best to check the ingredients with the staff or carry suitable snacks with you.

Prices in airport establishments are traditionally higher than in the city. The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule — they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the last flight departs. For a full meal, the restaurants in the food court in the sterile area are best suited, and for a quick coffee — any of the available cafes.

To ensure your journey through La Union Airport in the city of Puerto Plata is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, make use of these practical tips. Proper preparation will help save time, nerves, and even money.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before departure. During the peak tourist season, queues for check-in and security can be longer than usual, so extra time will be beneficial. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient.

Check-in and Security: To speed up the process, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. Prepare all necessary documents in advance: passport, boarding pass, and visa (if required). The security screening procedure is standard, but be prepared that you may be asked to remove your shoes or take electronics out of your hand luggage.

Seat Selection: Want to enjoy a farewell view of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic? Choose a window seat. If the ability to stretch your legs and stand up freely during the flight is more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Seats in the front of the cabin usually allow for a quicker exit from the aircraft upon arrival.

Hand Luggage: Be sure to pack all valuables in your hand luggage: documents, money, gadgets, as well as necessary medications. Remember the restriction on carrying liquids — no more than 100 ml per container, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are strictly prohibited.

Connecting Passengers: Puerto Plata Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. If you do have a transfer planned, check with your airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect it and check it in again.

Customs Control: Upon entering the Dominican Republic, all tourists are required to fill out an electronic E-Ticket form. Do this online 72 hours before departure to save time upon arrival. Upon departure, be prepared for luggage checks regarding the export of corals, shells, and other prohibited items.

Saving Time and Money: Prices for food, drinks, and souvenirs at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city. Try to have a snack and buy gifts in advance. Booking a transfer from the airport online also often proves to be more cost-effective than finding a taxi on the spot.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline's representative counter. Clarify information about the new departure time and inquire about your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals, drinks, or even hotel accommodation.