Las Americas International Airport

Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) is not merely the air gateway to the capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, but one of the key transport hubs of the entire Caribbean region. Opened in 1959, it is the second busiest airport in the country after Punta Cana and a vital centre for cargo air transport in the Caribbean basin. Dozens of flights operate to and from here daily, connecting the Dominican Republic with countries in North and South America, as well as Europe, making it the starting point for exploring the rich culture and history of this amazing island.

Las Américas Airport is constantly developing to meet the growing flow of tourists. Currently, it consists of two terminals — A and B, which serve international and domestic flights. For the convenience of passengers, everything necessary is available here: currency exchange bureaus, shops, cafes, and car rental offices. An important advantage of the airport is its strategic location, allowing quick access not only to the historic centre of Santo Domingo but also to popular beach resorts, such as Boca Chica. Furthermore, the construction of a new modern terminal is underway at the airport, which will increase capacity by another four million passengers per year and make travel even more comfortable.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Las Américas International Airport (SDQ). We recommend verifying the accuracy of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: www.aerodom.com/sdq
• Information Service Phone: +1 (809) 947-2225, +1 (809) 947-2297
• Address: Ruta 66, Punta Caucedo, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana
• Email for General Inquiries: info@aerodom.com
• Social Media: The airport is present on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) platforms under the name @AerodomRD, where news and operational information are published.
• Lost Luggage: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you should first contact your airline's representative. For items left within the airport terminal, please contact the Lost and Found service directly at the airport.
• Passenger Support: For consultations and assistance, you may use the information service phone numbers or the email address listed above.

There are several ways to get to Las Américas International Airport (SDQ), located east of Santo Domingo. The choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and the level of comfort you prefer. The trip from the capital centre of the Dominican Republic usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, but during peak hours, it may take up to an hour or more.

Taxi and Transfer

This is the most convenient and popular method among tourists to reach the airport. You can use official tourist taxis, which have fixed rates, or book a car through apps like Uber. Another reliable option is to book a private or group transfer in advance. This guarantees a fixed cost and a meeting with the driver at the designated location. This method is especially convenient if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage.

Car Rental

If you plan to move actively around the country, renting a car is an excellent solution. Las Américas Airport hosts offices of both international and local rental companies. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season. The road from the city to the airport runs along the modern Las Américas highway. The airport has convenient and guarded parking where you can leave your car for both short and long terms.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly, but also the least comfortable option, is local buses known as "guaguas". There is no direct bus route from the city centre to the terminal. Typically, you need to get to the Las Américas highway and catch a bus going towards Boca Chica that passes the turnoff to the airport. From the highway to the terminal, you will have to walk for about 10-15 minutes. This method is suitable for experienced travellers with light luggage who speak Spanish and are looking for real adventures. The fare is minimal, but do not expect comfort or predictability.

Other Airports

When planning your route around the Dominican Republic, consider that depending on your final destination, arriving at a different airport might be more convenient. For example, for holidays on the east coast resorts, Punta Cana International Airport is more suitable, and for a trip to the city of the same name — La Romana Airport.

Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) has a simple and clear structure consisting of two main terminals — Terminal A (South) and Terminal B (North). It is important to note that both terminals are located in the same building and are connected by a central hall, so moving between them does not require shuttles or long walks. This makes navigation through the airport quite convenient even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport layout is organised in a classic manner: the departure zone with check-in counters and security checkpoints is located on the upper floor, while the arrival zone with baggage claim belts and customs control is on the lower floor. Signs in Spanish and English will help you orient yourself easily. Walking between Terminals A and B takes just a few minutes along the main corridor.

Terminal A (South) is the older part of the airport and primarily serves flights from North, Central, and South American airlines. Terminal B (North) is a more modern extension primarily used for European and other long-haul flights. Despite the difference in age, both terminals offer a standard set of services for passengers, including shops, cafes, and waiting areas.

The time required to complete formalities may vary. On average, you should allow about 1–1.5 hours for check-in and security screening. However, during peak hours and the height of the tourist season (especially in winter months), queues can be longer. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5–3 hours before your international flight to avoid rushing.

For convenient navigation, always check which terminal (A or B) is indicated on your ticket or boarding pass. This will help you head straight to the correct check-in counters. Since the airport has a linear layout, it is practically impossible to get lost here — simply follow the signs to your boarding gate.

The history of Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) is inextricably linked with the development of tourism and international relations of the Dominican Republic. The airport was officially opened on November 10, 1959, and originally bore the name Punta Caucedo Airport. Its main task was to replace the then-obsolete General Andrews Airport and provide the country's capital, Santo Domingo, with a modern complex capable of accommodating large jet liners.

From its first days of operation, the airport became a key transport hub for international flights. As the popularity of Dominican resorts grew in the 1970s and 1980s, Las Américas constantly expanded. During this period, work was carried out to lengthen the runway and increase terminal capacity to meet the growing passenger flow, mainly from North America and Europe.

The most significant modernization in the airport's history occurred at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. After management was transferred to the private consortium Aerodom in 2000, a large-scale reconstruction programme was launched. Within the framework of this project, a new, modern Northern Terminal was built, existing zones were renovated, and infrastructure and navigation equipment were improved. These transformations allowed the airport to become one of the most advanced in the Caribbean region.

Among interesting facts from the airport's history, its name is worth noting. Although known worldwide as Las Américas, in 2003 it was officially renamed in honour of the prominent Dominican politician José Francisco Peña Gómez. Today, it is the second busiest airport in the country after Punta Cana and continues to play a vital role in the economic life of the Dominican Republic, serving millions of tourists and handling significant volumes of cargo.

Las Américas International Airport offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Whether you are arriving in the country or departing, you will find everything you need for a pleasant experience here.

For those feeling hungry, various restaurants, cafes, and bars operate within the airport. You can enjoy both local Dominican cuisine and familiar options from international fast-food chains. Additionally, Duty Free shops are located in the terminal, where you can purchase souvenirs, rum, cigars, perfumes, and other goods at attractive prices.

Passengers who value enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP lounges. Here, in a quiet atmosphere, snacks, beverages, fresh press, and more stable internet access are offered. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous sockets and special stations are provided for charging gadgets.

Financial matters can also be easily resolved at Las Américas Airport. At your service are bank branches, currency exchange bureaus, and ATMs located in both arrival and departure zones. A medical point operates for emergency assistance. For families with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped, and passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance for moving around the terminal, including escorts and special equipment.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, there are several hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport offering comfortable accommodation. Basic business services, such as copying or faxing, are usually available in the VIP waiting lounges.

At Las Américas International Airport (SDQ), passengers will find a good selection of establishments to grab a bite before their flight. Most cafes and restaurants are located in the "airside" zone, after passing passport control, which is very convenient for those waiting to board their flight.

The main food court is located on the third floor of Terminal B (North Terminal). Famous international fast-food chains such as Wendy's, Sbarro, Nathan's Famous, and Domino's Pizza are represented here. This is an ideal option for a quick and filling lunch. In the public zone before security control (landside), the choice is more limited, but you can find a coffee shop or a kiosk with light snacks.

For connoisseurs of aromatic coffee, Café Santo Domingo will be a real find, where you can not only enjoy a cup of the drink but also purchase famous Dominican coffee as a souvenir. An international chain coffee shop, Segafredo, also operates at the airport. If you have time, visit one of the bars, where, in addition to various beverages, including the popular local beer Presidente, light snacks are offered.

Although finding a restaurant with authentic Dominican cuisine in the airport is quite difficult, some establishments include dishes with Caribbean flair in their menu. This is a good chance to enjoy local flavours before departure. For passengers with special dietary needs, such as vegetarians, salads, vegetable sandwiches, and fruits are available. It is best to check directly with the staff of the chosen café regarding the availability of gluten-free or Halal options.

Prices in airport establishments are predictably higher than in the city but are on par with average prices in other major international airports. Most dining outlets operate from early morning until late evening, adjusting to the flight schedule. Thus, if you are in a hurry, the food court will help you out, and if you have an hour or two to spare, you can settle comfortably in one of the restaurants or bars in the departure zone.

To ensure your journey from Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) goes smoothly, there are several points to consider. The airport serves the capital of the Dominican Republic, the city of Santo Domingo, and is one of the busiest in the country. Planning ahead will help avoid unnecessary stress and make waiting for your flight comfortable.

For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. During the tourist season (from December to April), queues for check-in and security checks may be longer, so it is better to have spare time. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and, if travelling with hand luggage only, head straight to passport control and security.

When passing through security control, be ready to present your boarding pass and passport. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. If you are carrying Dominican rum or cigars as souvenirs, ensure their quantity does not exceed the permitted export limits and pack them in checked luggage to avoid issues. At customs control, you may be asked for a completed electronic ticket (E-ticket), which is mandatory for entering and exiting the country — keep the QR code ready on your phone.

Passengers with a connection (transit) should follow the "Transit" or "Connections" signs. Typically, you do not need to collect your luggage, but re-screening may be required. Verify this information with airline staff when checking in for your first flight. To save money, try not to exchange currency at the airport, as the rate here is less favourable. It is better to have a meal before travelling to the airport or bring light snacks with you.

When choosing a seat on the plane, if possible, prefer a window seat. When departing from Santo Domingo, stunning views of the Caribbean Sea coast may open up to you. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. The airport has Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops to help pass the waiting time.