Colima Airport

Colima Airport (CLQ), officially named Licenciado Miguel de la Madrid Hurtado National Airport, serves as the aerial gateway to the state of the same name—a picturesque region of majestic volcanoes, aromatic coffee plantations, and charming colonial architecture. It is not merely a transport hub, but a welcoming starting point for discovering authentic Mexico, far removed from the bustle of megacities. Recently, the airport was granted international status, opening new perspectives for regional development and making it even more attractive for travellers.

Despite its modest size, Colima Airport offers travellers several significant advantages. Its compactness and relatively low passenger traffic ensure a quick and comfortable completion of all formalities—from check-in to baggage claim—which is particularly valuable after a flight. The single-story terminal is equipped with all necessities: car rental desks, taxis, and small cafes where you can relax while waiting for your flight. The airport is managed by the state-owned company Aeropuertos y Servicios Auxiliares (ASA), guaranteeing high standards of safety and service. Due to its recently acquired international status, a large-scale modernization is planned, including the expansion of operational areas and infrastructure improvements, which will make the airport experience even more convenient.

If you need to contact the administration of Colima Airport, please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: On the official website of the operator, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), you will find flight schedules, information on services, and general data about the airport.
• Information Desk Phone: +52 (312) 316 2616
• Airport Address: Carretera Colima-Guadalajara Km. 16, C.P. 28600, Buenavista, Cuauhtémoc, Colima, México.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's website for communication.
• Lost Luggage: If your belongings were lost within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration office. If the loss occurred on board the aircraft, contact your airline representative directly.
• Passenger Support: For general questions regarding passenger services, please contact the information desk by phone.

Getting to Colima Airport (CLQ) from the city centre of Colima in Mexico is quite simple, and travellers have several options to choose from. The distance is approximately 22 kilometres, and the journey usually takes 20-30 minutes, though travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. You can hail an official taxi in the city or use ride-hailing apps such as Uber or DiDi. The cost of a taxi ride from central Colima will be approximately 300–500 Mexican Pesos. For greater convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance—this guarantees a fixed price and timely vehicle arrival.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly but least convenient option. It is important to note that there is no direct bus route from the city centre to the airport terminal. Locals and experienced travellers may take one of the regional buses (`camión`) to the airport turnoff on the main highway, and from there take a short taxi ride for the remaining couple of kilometres. This method suits those travelling light who speak Spanish and wish to save money, but it requires more time and effort.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively explore the state of Colima and its surroundings. International and local rental companies operate in the city. The cost of renting a compact car starts from approximately 600–1200 Mexican Pesos per day (excluding full insurance). Most companies allow you to easily pick up the car in the city and return it to the office at the airport before departure, providing maximum flexibility.

If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, paid parking is available on the premises. Zones are available for both short-term parking (drop-off or pick-up) and long-term storage if you plan to leave your car for several days.

Colima Airport (CLQ), also known as Licenciado Miguel de la Madrid Airport, is a small and compact aviation hub, making it very convenient for travellers. The airport operates with just one terminal, which handles both domestic arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about complex transfers or searching for the right building—everything is located in one place.

The terminal structure is extremely simple and intuitive. Upon entry, you immediately find yourself in the general area featuring airline check-in counters and several kiosks. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security, which leads to a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrival area is equally concise: after disembarking the aircraft, you enter the baggage claim hall, and from there, proceed to the terminal exit where taxis or car rental desks can be found.

One of the main advantages of Colima Airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Due to low passenger traffic, check-in and security procedures usually take a minimal amount of time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure to go through all stages without rushing and wait calmly for your flight. Navigation through the terminal poses no difficulties: all zones are clearly marked with signs, and due to its compact size, getting lost here is practically impossible.

The history of Colima Airport (CLQ), officially known as Licenciado Miguel de la Madrid Airport, is closely tied to the development of the eponymous state in Mexico. The airport was inaugurated in March 1987. Its construction was an important step for the region, as it replaced an older, smaller airfield that could no longer cope with the growing demands for passenger and cargo transport.

A key historical event that defined the airport's name was the decision to name it in honour of Miguel de la Madrid Hurtado. He served as the President of Mexico from 1982 to 1988 and was a native of the state of Colima. Thus, the airport's name is a tribute to a distinguished countryman who made a significant contribution to the nation's development. Initially, the airport was under state management, but in 1999 an important phase in its history occurred—it passed under the management of the private operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), which continues to handle its operation and modernization today.

Since its foundation, the airport has not undergone the massive expansions characteristic of major international hubs, but it has regularly undergone modernization to meet modern safety and comfort standards. Under the leadership of GAP, works have been carried out to update the runway, navigation equipment, and reconstruct the passenger terminal. For instance, in 2019, significant infrastructure improvement works were conducted, enhancing the quality of passenger service.

The main achievement of Colima Airport is its stable and reliable operation as a key transport hub for the state. It provides vital air connections with the country's capital, Mexico City, and other important cities, fostering business and tourism development in the region. An interesting fact: despite the presence of a larger international airport in the coastal city of Manzanillo, the airport in Colima remains an important aerial gateway for the state capital and its surroundings, playing an indispensable role in the local economy.

Colima Airport (CLQ), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before departure. The terminal is designed to ensure convenience and accessibility to essential facilities.

Dining and Shopping: The airport has several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite before your flight, enjoy coffee, or have refreshing drinks. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and local handicrafts to take a piece of Mexico home with you.

Connectivity and Finance: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. Designated areas are provided for charging electronic devices. The airport is equipped with ATMs and a currency exchange point where necessary financial transactions can be made.

Waiting Areas and Special Services: Comfortable waiting areas are equipped for all passengers. It is recommended to check with your airline representative regarding the availability of VIP lounges and access conditions. The airport is adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps and specially equipped restrooms are available. Families with children can make use of the mother and child room.

Additional Services: In case of need, a medical unit is available to passengers for first aid. Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, numerous accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity and in the city of Colima itself. While specialized conference rooms are not provided in the terminal, basic amenities such as Wi-Fi allow for attending to work matters while waiting for a flight.

Colima Airport (CLQ) is a small regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Options are mainly designed for passengers who need a quick snack or a coffee before departure. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants as found in major international airports.

All establishments are concentrated in the single terminal. typically, there is a small cafe or snack bar available in the general area (before security control), and possibly another point serving drinks and snacks in the departure area (after control). The menu usually includes sandwiches, pastries, crisps, chocolate, as well as hot and cold beverages, including coffee and bottled water.

While the airport is unlikely to delight gourmets, sometimes local cafes may offer something with regional flair, such as traditional sweets or refreshing "aguas frescas" drinks. However, specialized offerings for vegetarians, vegans, or passengers with a gluten-free diet are unlikely to be found here. If you have strict dietary requirements, it is safest to bring food with you or eat in the city of Colima before travelling to the airport.

Prices at the airport, as elsewhere, are higher than the city average. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule—they are open during periods of activity and may be closed between flights. A coffee with a pastry or a sandwich is suitable for a quick snack. If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is strongly recommended to do so at one of the numerous restaurants in Colima, where you can experience the authentic cuisine of Mexico.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Colima city goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, make use of these helpful tips. Colima Airport (CLQ) is small and convenient, but proper preparation always helps.

Arrival Time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights—3 hours. Although the airport is small and queues are rarely long, extra time will allow you to calmly complete all formalities, check in luggage, and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Check-in and Security. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This allows you to proceed immediately to the baggage drop counter or security if you are travelling light. The security procedure is standard: be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics, and pack all liquids in containers up to 100 ml in a transparent bag.

Seat Selection. If you wish to enjoy picturesque views during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. The Colima region is famous for its volcanoes, and in good weather, a breathtaking panorama may reveal itself to you. If comfort and the ability to leave the cabin quickly after landing are more important, it is better to choose an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Power banks and lithium batteries are permitted only in hand luggage.

Connecting Passengers. Colima Airport mainly serves direct flights, so long layovers here are rare. If you do have a long connection, note that opportunities for rest within the terminal itself are limited. If sufficient time is available (from 5-6 hours) and you have the appropriate visa (if required), it makes sense to consider a short trip into the city.

Customs Control. When entering Mexico, you will need to fill out a customs declaration (often this can be done online in advance). After collecting luggage, be prepared for a potential inspection. In some airports in the country, a "traffic light" system is still in operation: you press a button, and if a green light turns on, you pass without inspection; if red, your luggage will be inspected.

Saving Time and Money. Book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance online to avoid inflated prices. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security. Travelling with only hand luggage will not only speed up your movement through the airport but also save money on baggage fees.

In Case of Flight Delay. First, contact your airline representative for the latest information and to clarify your rights regarding compensation, provision of meals, or accommodation. Remain calm and monitor announcements and information on the departure boards.