Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport

The Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport is the air gateway leading to two gems of the Mexican Pacific coast. Upon landing here, travellers find themselves on the threshold of two distinct worlds: the modern resort of Ixtapa with its luxurious hotels, and the cosy, authentic fishing town of Zihuatanejo. The airport plays a key role in the tourism infrastructure of the state of Guerrero, welcoming guests from all over the world seeking sun, sea, and Mexican flair. It is a modern and convenient terminal that ensures a comfortable start and end to an unforgettable holiday.

The main advantage of the airport is its strategic location, allowing quick access to the hotels and beaches of both resorts. The air harbour serves both domestic flights from major Mexican cities and international flights, primarily from the USA and Canada, the number of which increases significantly during the high tourist season. Despite its relatively small size, the airport offers all necessary services for travellers, including car rental desks, official taxi services, shops, and cafes. This makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the picturesque Costa Grande coast.

To contact representatives of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), you can use the following contact details:

• Official Website: You can find up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the website of the operator OMA (Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte). Visit the site via the link: www.oma.aero/es/aeropuertos/zihuatanejo.
• Information Desk Phone: For general information, flight schedules, and other enquiries, you can call the main phone number: +52 (755) 554-2070.
• Airport Address: Carretera Nacional Zihuatanejo - Acapulco km 10, C.P. 40880, Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, México.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the management company OMA Aeropuertos on their official social media pages, for example, on Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @OMAaeropuertos.
• Lost and Found Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you must first contact your airline's representative. Regarding items left within the terminal building, you should call the Lost and Found service (Objetos Extraviados) at +52 (755) 554-2070 (extension 4310).
• Passenger Support Contacts: The main support channel is the airport information desk phone: +52 (755) 554-2070.

Getting to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) from the resort zones of Ixtapa or the neighbouring city of Zihuatanejo is quite simple, as the airport is conveniently located just a 15-25 minute drive away. Travellers have access to several transport options to suit any budget and comfort level.

Taxis and Transfers — the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. You can use official taxi services by booking them at the `Transporte Terrestre` desk at your hotel or directly at the airport. The cost of the trip is usually fixed and depends on the destination. Another excellent option is collective shuttles (`colectivos`), which offer a lower price by sharing the ride with other passengers. This is a great compromise between cost and comfort. The journey from the Ixtapa hotel zone will take approximately 20-25 minutes.

Car Rental — an ideal choice for those who wish to explore the coast of Mexico independently. Several international and local rental companies have offices at Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Airport. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, paid parking is available. It is located directly in front of the terminal and offers both short-term and long-term parking options.

Public Transport — the most budget-friendly, but also the least predictable option. Local buses (`combis`) run along the main highway, which passes near the airport entrance. It is important to note that they do not drive directly up to the terminal, and you will have to walk about 500 metres from the highway. This method is suitable for travellers without heavy luggage who are looking for an authentic and maximally economical experience.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) is a compact and convenient aviation hub serving both domestic and international flights. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making the stay here comfortable even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one main terminal, which is divided into several functional zones. Thanks to its small size and logical layout, getting lost here is practically impossible. All key zones — check-in, security, departures, and arrivals — are within walking distance of each other, and transitions between them take just a few minutes.

Departure Zone (Salidas) is located on one level. Airline check-in counters are situated immediately at the entrance. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area. Procedures generally take little time, but queues may arise during the peak tourist season (from December to April). It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. After screening, passengers enter the general waiting hall with boarding gates, shops, and small cafes.

Arrival Zone (Llegadas) is also organised very simply. Passengers on international flights first go through passport control, and then join passengers from domestic flights in the baggage claim hall. After collecting suitcases, it is necessary to pass through customs inspection. At the terminal exit, you will be met by hotel representatives, taxi stands, and car rental companies. All navigation in the airport is duplicated in English, which facilitates orientation for foreign tourists.

The history of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) is inextricably linked with the transformation of the Pacific coast of Mexico into one of the leading tourism centres. The airport was built as part of an ambitious government project and officially opened in 1978. Its main task was to ensure transport accessibility for the new, specifically planned resort of Ixtapa and the neighbouring, already existing authentic town of Zihuatanejo. This step became a catalyst for the economic and tourism development of the entire Costa Grande region.

In the first decades of its existence, the airport gradually increased passenger traffic, accepting more charter and scheduled flights, mainly from the USA and Canada. A key stage in its development was privatisation in 2000, when management passed to the operator Grupo Aeroportuario Centro Norte (OMA). This event launched a large-scale modernisation: in the mid-2000s, a complete reconstruction and expansion of the terminal was carried out, which significantly improved the quality of service, increased capacity, and created modern zones for passengers.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Airport has repeatedly played an important role in the life of the region, including during the aftermath of tropical storms characteristic of this coast, ensuring the delivery of aid and evacuation. Today, it consistently serves hundreds of thousands of tourists annually, acting as the main aerial gateway for travellers seeking famous beaches and resorts.

One of the most interesting facts indirectly related to the airport is its cultural heritage. It was the beaches of Zihuatanejo that became the setting for the final scene of the cult film "The Shawshank Redemption". Although the airport itself is not shown in the film, it is thanks to it that this remote corner of paradise became world-famous and accessible to travellers dreaming of finding that very place where "the ocean has no memory".

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), despite its compact size, provides passengers with all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a quick bite or drink coffee, as well as lounges with refreshing drinks. For those looking for gifts and souvenirs, there are shops offering Mexican handicrafts, local specialities, and beach accessories. Passengers departing on international flights can visit the Duty-Free shop.

For those who need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available at the airport (the service may be paid), and zones for charging mobile devices are provided. Increased comfort is offered by the VIP Lounge, where you can wait for your flight in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying complimentary snacks, beverages, and internet access. Typically, entry to the lounge is available for a separate fee or via Priority Pass cards and similar loyalty programmes.

Currency exchange points and ATMs function at the airport, which is very convenient for arriving tourists who need cash pesos. In case of unforeseen health situations, there is a first aid station in the terminal.

The terminal is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility — it is equipped with ramps and special restrooms. Families with small children can use changing tables located in the washrooms.

Although there are no hotels directly on the territory of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Airport, a large selection of accommodation options is located just a few minutes away by taxi, both in the resort zone of Ixtapa and in the city of Zihuatanejo. The airport does not have separate conference halls or business centres, however, for business travellers, the VIP Lounge can serve as a quiet place for work.

At Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), travellers will find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the airport is small, everything necessary to spend time comfortably is available here. The main establishments are concentrated in the main terminal and are divided into two zones: the public area (before security control) and the departure area (after control).

In the public area (landside), the choice is limited but sufficient for a quick snack. Here you can find small grab-and-go kiosks selling drinks, crisps, and sandwiches. This is a convenient option if you are seeing someone off and not going inside.

The main selection of establishments awaits passengers in the departure area (airside), after passing security control. For those who want a quick and filling meal, the world-famous Subway chain operates here, where you can assemble a sandwich to your taste. If you have time to relax, visit the Corona Beach Bar. This is a great place to enjoy a final taste of Mexico: they serve cold local beverages and traditional snacks such as quesadillas or nachos. There are also coffee shops with pastries and desserts in the departure zone.

Regarding special dietary needs, the choice may be limited. Vegetarians will easily find suitable options at Subway (vegetable sandwich) or can order a cheese quesadilla and salads in other cafes. Finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes is practically impossible. In this case, it is better to opt for fresh fruit, juices, or pre-packaged salads, carefully checking the ingredients.

Prices at ZIH airport, as in most tourist hubs, are higher than in the city of Ixtapa. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are completely tied to the flight schedule: they open before the first morning departures and close after the last evening plane departs, so you will not go hungry.

Planning a trip through Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) will be easier if you familiarise yourself with its features in advance. Here are a few tips that will help you save time, stress, and money, making the start or end of your journey through Mexico as comfortable as possible.

Arrival time at the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing. For domestic flights within Mexico, arriving 1.5-2 hours in advance is enough. The airport is not very large, but during the peak tourist season, queues can be longer than usual.

Check-in and Security. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass ready. During security screening, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage, as well as liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag.

Seat selection on the plane. The airport is located on the picturesque Pacific coast. To enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to stand up and stretch easily are more important to you, an aisle seat is more suitable.

Hand luggage. Standard international rules apply here. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Power banks and lithium batteries must be carried only in hand luggage, not in checked baggage.

Connecting passengers. Although Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is mostly a final destination, transit passengers do pass through here. Carefully follow signs for "Transit" or "Connections". Check with airline staff whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage, especially if you are transferring from an international flight to a domestic one.

Customs control. Upon entering Mexico, you will need to complete a customs declaration. Declare all goods subject to declaration honestly. After collecting your luggage, you will pass through customs control. Be prepared for a possible inspection of your belongings.

Saving time and money. Book a transfer from the airport to your hotel online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security to avoid buying expensive water. Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to contact loved ones or call a taxi via an app.

Flight delays. In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (water, meals). Keep all receipts for expenses related to the delay if you have travel insurance. There are cafes and shops at the airport where you can spend time while waiting.