Huatulco Airport

Huatulco International Airport (HUX), also known as Bahías de Huatulco International Airport, serves as the gateway to one of the most picturesque and environmentally pristine resort regions on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Its terminal, designed in a unique style featuring traditional *palapa* thatched roofs, instantly immerses travellers in a tropical holiday atmosphere. This compact yet modern airport acts as the starting point for exploring the stunning bays, coffee plantations, and rich culture of the state of Oaxaca. Despite its size, the airport efficiently handles both domestic and international flights, offering guests a comfortable start to their Mexican adventure.

The main feature of Huatulco Airport is its architecture, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Open spaces and thatched roofs create a sense of spaciousness and coolness, which is particularly pleasant in the warm climate. The airport is served by a single terminal, which conveniently houses arrival and departure areas, check-in counters, several shops, cafes, and car rental desks. Thanks to its location, the journey from the airport to major hotels and beaches takes only 20-30 minutes, allowing tourists to quickly reach their holiday destination. The airport receives direct flights from major Mexican cities, as well as seasonal flights from the USA and Canada, making it a convenient destination for travellers from around the world.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information on flights, services, and rules for Huatulco Airport can be found on the official ASUR operator website: www.asur.com.mx/es/aeropuertos/aeropuerto-de-huatulco
• Information Desk Phone: For enquiries by phone, you may call: +52 (958) 581 9004.
• Airport Address: Carretera Costera Pinotepa, Salina Cruz - Santiago Pinotepa Nacional Km. 237, El Zapote, 70980 Santa María Huatulco, Oax., México.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official airport website to communicate with the administration.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the management company, ASUR, on social media platforms, where information regarding the airport is also published.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should contact your airline directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, please use the information desk phone or the feedback form on the official website.

Huatulco International Airport (HUX) is conveniently located relative to the main tourist areas. Getting from the terminal to your hotel or the city centre of Huatulco can be done in several ways, suitable for any budget and travel style.

Taxis and Transfers — the most popular and comfortable option. Counters for official taxi services are located directly in the arrivals hall. The trip to main resort zones, such as Santa Cruz or La Crucecita, usually takes 20-30 minutes. The cost is fixed and depends on the destination zone. You can also pre-book a private or group transfer through your hotel or a travel company, which is particularly convenient for large groups or families with children.

Public Transport in the form of shared vans (colectivos) is a more economical alternative. These are shared minibuses that depart as they fill up and travel between the airport and key points in the city. This method may take a little longer due to additional stops but allows for significant savings. It is an excellent choice for solo travellers and those wishing to experience the local character of Mexico.

Car Rental — the ideal solution for those planning to explore not only the resort beaches but also the picturesque surroundings. Several major international and local rental companies have offices at the airport. It is recommended to book a car online in advance, especially during the high season, to ensure the best selection and rates. Having a car will give you complete freedom of movement along the Oaxaca coast.

Parking is available at the airport for travellers arriving in personal or rented vehicles. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available at reasonable rates.

The International Airport of Huatulco (HUX) is distinguished by its compactness and unique architecture, which immediately immerses visitors in a tropical holiday atmosphere. The airport consists of just one terminal serving both domestic and international flights, making navigation extremely simple and intuitive.

The terminal layout is very logical. It is a single-storey building, a significant part of which is designed as open galleries under high thatched roofs in the "palapa" style — a hallmark of many resorts in Mexico. Arrival and departure areas are located in the same building but are clearly separated. Upon entering the terminal, you find yourself in the check-in area where airline counters are located. After check-in, passengers pass through a single security screening point and enter the departure lounge.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between different buildings. All services — from check-in to boarding — are within walking distance of each other. The arrivals area is also arranged very simply: after disembarking, passengers proceed to passport control, then to the baggage claim hall, and finally pass through customs inspection before exiting into the public zone.

The time required to complete all formalities at Huatulco Airport is usually short due to its modest size. In the low season, check-in and security may take just 20-30 minutes. However, during peak periods (Christmas holidays, spring break), queues may arise due to the simultaneous arrival of several flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one to avoid rushing.

For navigation, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English; it is practically impossible to get lost here. The main advice is that after completing check-in and security, proceed to the departure area, where a few shops and cafes are located, and simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while waiting for your flight.

The history of Huatulco International Airport (HUX) is closely tied to the transformation of this region on the Oaxaca coast into one of the most attractive tourist centres in Mexico. The airport was opened in 1982 as a key element of an ambitious project by the National Fund for Tourism Development (FONATUR), aimed at creating the first-class resort of Huatulco on the site of former fishing villages. From the very beginning, its mission was to provide convenient access to the region's nine picturesque bays for travellers from around the world.

A significant stage in the airport's development began in the late 1990s when it came under the management of the private company Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR). This event launched a large-scale modernization and infrastructure expansion. Works were carried out to reconstruct the terminal, improve the runway, and implement modern passenger service technologies. Thanks to these investments, the airport was able to receive more international flights, primarily from the USA and Canada, which contributed to a sharp rise in the resort's popularity.

One of the main achievements in the airport's modern history is its commitment to environmental standards. Huatulco Airport became one of the first in Latin America to receive carbon neutrality certification under the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. It has repeatedly received prestigious awards from the Airports Council International (ACI) as one of the best airports in its region for service quality.

Among interesting facts, the unique architecture of the terminal stands out. Its spacious main hall is designed as a traditional palapa — a huge roof made of palm leaves, which immediately upon arrival immerses travellers in a tropical holiday atmosphere. The history of HUX airport is not one of records and loud events, but an example of how carefully planned infrastructure can become the engine of development for an entire region, turning it into a gem of the Pacific coast.

Huatulco International Airport (HUX), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern terminal oriented towards tourists arriving on the Pacific coast of Mexico.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops. At the airport, you will find several establishments where you can have a snack before departure — from cafes with sandwiches and pastries to small restaurants offering local and international cuisine. There are also shops where you can buy souvenirs, Mexican delicacies, local beverages, and essential goods. There is also a Duty-Free zone featuring perfumes, beverages, and tobacco products.

Lounges and VIP Service. For passengers wishing to spend time in a quieter environment, The Lounge by Global Lounge Network is available. Here you can relax in comfortable armchairs, use free Wi-Fi, and enjoy snacks and drinks. Access to the lounge is possible with Priority Pass or LoungeKey cards, or for a separate fee.

Connectivity and Device Charging. Access to Wi-Fi is provided within the terminal, which may be fee-based. Special counters and power outlets are provided in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices.

Financial Services. The airport is equipped with ATMs where you can withdraw cash. A currency exchange office also operates, where you can exchange dollars, euros, and other major currencies for Mexican pesos, although the rate may be less favourable than in the city.

Passenger Services. For first aid, there is a medical unit at the airport. Passengers with small children can use baby changing rooms. For people with reduced mobility, ramps, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance services are provided; it is recommended to book assistance in advance through the airline.

Hotels and Business Services. There are no hotels directly inside the airport building. The nearest hotels and resort complexes are a few minutes' taxi ride away in the tourist zones of Huatulco. Dedicated conference rooms are not provided at the airport, however, basic working conditions, such as internet and a quiet space, can be found in the VIP lounge.

Airport Huatulco (HUX), being relatively small and oriented towards tourist flows, offers a basic but sufficient selection of establishments for a snack before departure. One should not expect the gastronomic variety of a major international hub here, but you certainly won't go hungry.

The main dining points are located in the departure area, after passing security control (airside). Before control (landside), the choice is extremely limited and may be reduced to vending machines with drinks and snacks. In the main waiting hall, you will find several small cafes and bars offering a standard assortment for travellers.

What to try:

• Quick snack: Sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and coffee are at your service. This is an ideal option if there is little time left before boarding.
• Substantial meal: Some establishments offer hot dishes, for example, quesadillas, simple tacos, or burgers. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a final taste of Mexico before departure.
• Beverages: In the bars, you can order soft drinks as well as local beer or the famous distillates — tequila and mezcal.

Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city. Opening hours of establishments are generally tied to the flight schedule — they open with the first morning departures and close after the last plane leaves. regarding special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free), the choice will be very modest. It is easiest to find simple vegetarian options, for example, guacamole with nachos or a salad, but specialised menus are unlikely to be found here. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them.

To ensure your journey from Huatulco Airport (HUX) goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, make use of our tips. This small but cosy airport serves both domestic and international flights, and proper preparation will help save time and nerves.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. Despite the compact size, queues can form here during peak season. If possible, complete online check-in in advance to save time. Check-in counters usually open 3 hours before departure.

Security Checks. The screening procedure is standard. Remember the rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Keep your boarding pass and passport close at hand. Security staff are friendly, but follow their instructions to speed up the process.

Seat Selection. If you are flying along the coast of Mexico, choose a window seat — the views of the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre mountains can be simply stunning. For greater comfort and freedom of movement around the cabin, an aisle seat is better suited.

Hand Luggage. Be sure to pack all valuables, documents, necessary electronics (laptops, power banks), and medicines in your hand luggage. Do not check fragile souvenirs in your luggage. Remember that alcohol purchased in the city (tequila, mezcal) can only be transported in checked luggage if the volume exceeds 100 ml. Alcohol from Duty Free is permitted to be taken on board.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. Huatulco Airport is rarely used as a transit hub. If you do have a connecting flight, check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Upon entering the country at customs control, a "traffic light" system operates: 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. To save money, have a snack before arriving at the airport — prices in local cafes and shops are significantly higher. It is also more economical to book a transfer to the hotel online in advance than to use taxi services at the terminal exit. Use ATMs of major banks to withdraw cash to avoid high commissions.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. There are several cafes and souvenir shops at the airport where you can pass the time while waiting for departure.