Xoxocotlan Airport

Oaxaca International Airport, officially named Xoxocotlán, serves as the main aerial gateway to the state of the same name, which is rightfully considered the cultural and gastronomic heart of Mexico. The airport's name originates from the Nahuatl language and translates as "place of sour or sweet-and-sour fruits," subtly hinting at the richness and diversity of the local natural bounty. Despite its relative compactness, the airport effectively handles a constantly growing flow of tourists eager to explore ancient civilizations, colonial architecture, and unique traditions. It is a modern and convenient hub connecting Oaxaca with major Mexican cities and several important destinations in the USA.

Xoxocotlán Airport features simple and clear navigation thanks to having just one terminal that services both domestic and international flights. This makes it particularly convenient for travellers who value their time and dislike the bustle of large aviation hubs. For a comfortable wait before a flight, passengers can utilise the services of the VIP lounge, The Lounge by GLN. Transport connections to the city centre are well organised: directly within the airport building, you can purchase tickets for an official taxi or a more budget-friendly shared shuttle (colectivo) that will take you to your hotel. The airport is a key hub for the regional airline Aerotucán and also offers direct flights to cities such as Mexico City, Cancun, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

• Official Website: www.asur.com.mx/es/aeropuertos/oaxaca
• Help Desk Phone: +52 (951) 511 5088
• Address: Carretera Oaxaca-Puerto Angel, Km. 7.5, 68101 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Email: For communication, it is recommended to use the contact forms on the official airport operator's website (ASUR), as a direct email address is not provided.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official pages on social media. It is recommended to follow news and updates on the official website or on the pages of the managing company, ASUR.
• Lost Luggage: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, primarily contact your airline's representative at the airport. Regarding items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and information, you may call the airport help desk listed above.

Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) is conveniently located just 10 kilometres south of the city centre of Oaxaca. The journey to or from the airport usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, although this time may increase during peak hours. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and desired level of comfort.

Taxis and Shared Transfers (Colectivos)

The simplest and most common way to get to the airport is by taxi. You can book a private taxi that will take you directly to the terminal. A more budget-friendly option is colectivos, or shared taxis. These are minibuses that travel along a route, picking up and dropping off several passengers. The cost of a trip on a colectivo is significantly lower than a private taxi, but it may take slightly longer. For trips from the airport, tickets for both types of transport are sold at special counters in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental

If you plan to explore not only the city but also the picturesque surroundings of the state, renting a car is an ideal solution. At Oaxaca airport, there are representatives of several major international and Mexican rental companies. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to ensure the best choice and price for your journey through Mexico.

Public Transport

There is practically no direct and convenient public transport route connecting the city centre with the airport for tourists. Local second-class buses stop on the main road outside the airport territory, but this option is extremely inconvenient if you have luggage and requires an additional walk. For comfort and safety, tourists are advised to use taxi or transfer services.

Airport Parking

For those arriving at the airport in a personal or rented vehicle, parking is available. It offers both short-term and long-term rates, which is convenient whether you are leaving the car during your absence or have arrived to meet or see someone off.

Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), serving the city of Oaxaca and its surroundings, is distinguished by a simple and clear structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which receives both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation and spares travellers the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building has two main levels. The Ground Floor is designated for arriving passengers. Here, you will find baggage claim areas, customs control for international flights, car rental counters, official taxi kiosks, and tourist information points. The First Floor is the departure zone. Located here are airline check-in counters, the security screening point, and the waiting lounge with boarding gates.

Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take place within a single building, making the movement process quick and convenient. Navigation poses no difficulties thanks to the compact size and the presence of signs in Spanish and English. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Despite its modest size, the terminal offers basic amenities for passengers: several cafes serving local and European cuisine, souvenir shops where you can buy items from Oaxacan artisans, and ATMs. In the departure lounge, after passing security, there is a small seating area and several shops.

Passing through check-in and security at Oaxaca airport usually takes less time than in the major hubs of Mexico. Nevertheless, during peak tourist seasons (for example, during the Day of the Dead celebrations or the Guelaguetza festival), queues may occur. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one to complete all formalities without rushing.

Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), officially known as Aeropuerto Internacional de Xoxocotlán, is the main aerial gateway to the state of Oaxaca and one of the most important transport hubs in southern Mexico. Its history is closely linked to the development of tourism and the economic integration of this unique cultural region.

The airport was inaugurated in 1950. At that time, it was a modest airfield, the primary task of which was establishing reliable air connections between the isolated state capital and Mexico City. This event became a turning point for the region, significantly simplifying access to Oaxaca for business and the first travellers wishing to discover its rich heritage.

The main stages of the airport's development occurred in the second half of the 20th century, when Oaxaca began to gain popularity as a world-class tourist destination. In the late 1990s, management of the airport was transferred to ASUR (Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste), marking the beginning of a period of large-scale modernisation. Reconstruction of the passenger terminal, expansion of the runway, and improvement of infrastructure for receiving international flights, primarily from the USA and Canada, were carried out. These changes allowed for a significant increase in passenger traffic and improved service quality.

Today, Xoxocotlán Airport is a modern and dynamically developing complex. While it may not boast records for size, it consistently demonstrates growth in passenger numbers, serving hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. An interesting fact: the airport received its name from the municipality of Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, in which it is located. Its role is invaluable during the hosting of major festivals, such as the Guelaguetza and the Day of the Dead, when the air harbour operates at maximum capacity, welcoming guests from all over the world.

Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), serving the city of Oaxaca and its surroundings, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact dimensions, the terminal is well-equipped and ready to satisfy the basic needs of travellers.

Within the airport, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite before departure, as well as drink the famous coffee from Oaxaca. The shops present a wide selection of souvenirs, including items by local artisans, textiles, mezcal, and chocolate. There are also Duty Free shops with a traditional assortment of goods. For a more comfortable wait, you can utilise the services of the VIP lounge, which offers beverages, snacks, comfortable seating, and a quieter atmosphere.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available at the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas. The terminal houses ATMs and currency exchange points where you can withdraw cash or exchange money. In case of necessity, the airport has a medical unit for providing first aid.

Passengers with children can use the mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables. For travellers with reduced mobility, ramps, special restrooms, and the option to request airline staff assistance for accompaniment are provided. There are no hotels directly within the airport building; however, numerous accommodation options are located just a few minutes away by taxi in the city of Oaxaca. There are no specialised business centres or conference halls at the airport, but quiet zones in the VIP lounge can be used for work.

Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), serving the city of Oaxaca, offers passengers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the famous local gastronomy right before departure. Unlike major hubs, the focus here is not on a variety of global chains, but on the authentic cuisine of the region, which will be an excellent conclusion to your journey through Mexico.

It is important to note that practically all cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the departure zone (airside), accessible only after passing pre-flight security. In the public zone before check-in (landside), the choice is extremely small and is usually limited to a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks. Therefore, if you plan to have a full lunch, it is better to do so after check-in and security control.

The main gastronomic point in the departure zone is the restaurant El Sabor de Oaxaca, where you can order classic dishes of the state. For a full meal, be sure to try the famous tlayudas (large crispy tortillas with fillings), enchiladas with mole sauce, or hearty memelas. For a quicker snack, coffee shops are suitable, where you can drink a cup of excellent local organic coffee, traditional hot chocolate, and pick up fresh pastries.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding separate vegan or gluten-free menus may be difficult. However, many dishes of Oaxacan cuisine are vegetarian by nature, as they are prepared based on corn, beans, and vegetables. We recommend always clarifying the ingredients with staff before ordering to find a suitable option for you.

Prices in airport establishments are expectedly higher than in the city. Expect to pay around 180–300 MXN for a main dish in a restaurant and about 80–150 MXN for coffee with a pastry. Most establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the departure of the last aircraft in the evening.

Travelling through Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in the city of Oaxaca generally goes smoothly, but a few tips will help make your experience even more comfortable. This airport is relatively small, so orienting oneself is easy, yet during peak seasons it can be quite lively.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours prior. This time is sufficient to complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass security screening without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option.

Passing Control and Seat Selection: Security procedures are standard. Keep your passport and boarding pass close at hand. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that flights over Mexico are often accompanied by picturesque views of the mountains — a window seat can offer you unforgettable impressions. If comfort and the ability to leave the cabin quickly are more important to you, choose an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage: Standard safety rules apply here as well: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and no sharp objects. Always check the hand luggage allowance on your airline's website. Always keep valuables, documents, medication, and electronics with you in your hand luggage.

Customs Control: Upon entering the country, you will need to complete a customs declaration. Be prepared that your luggage may be selected for inspection. Honestly declare all goods, especially alcohol, tobacco, and cash exceeding the established limit, to avoid fines.

For Transfer Passengers and Delays: Oaxaca Airport is not a major transfer hub, so long layovers here are rare. In the event of a flight delay, immediately contact your airline representative for information on flight status, rebooking options, or provision of meals and accommodation. Having travel insurance can significantly simplify resolving such issues.

Saving Time and Money: The most cost-effective way to get to the city is the `colectivo` (shared minibus), tickets for which can be bought at counters inside the terminal. This is significantly cheaper than a private taxi. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher than in the city, so it is better to have a snack beforehand or bring light snacks with you.