San Luis Potosi Airport

San Luis Potosí International Airport, also known as Ponciano Arriaga International Airport, serves as the key aerial gateway to the state and city of the same name in the central part of Mexico. Located in the picturesque region of the Mexican Highlands, it caters to both tourists eager to explore the city's colonial heritage and business travellers. This airport combines modern amenities with a significant role as a major cargo hub, making it an integral part of the region's economic life.

One of the main features of the airport is its dual purpose. In addition to serving passenger flights, it plays a strategic role in cargo transportation, driven by the region's developed industry, particularly automotive manufacturing. For travellers, this ensures well-organised infrastructure and stable air connectivity with major hubs in Mexico and the USA, such as Mexico City, Dallas, and Houston. Despite its relatively small size, the airport offers all necessary services, including car rentals, cafés, and shops, ensuring a comfortable start or end to your journey through this amazing region.

Below you will find contact information for Ponciano Arriaga International Airport, serving San Luis Potosi.

• Official Website: oma.aero/es/aeropuertos/san-luis-potosi
• Information Desk Phone: +52 (444) 478 7000
• Address: Carretera a Matehuala Km. 9.5, C.P. 78341, San Luis Potosí, S.L.P., Mexico
• Email: For official enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's website, as a public email for general questions is not provided.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages of OMA Group (the airport operator) on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have left personal items in the airport terminal, please contact the Lost and Found service (Objetos Olvidados) via the main phone number. In case of loss or damage to checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions regarding your stay at the airport, you may call the main information desk number.

Getting to Ponciano Arriaga International Airport (SLP) from the city centre of San Luis Potosi is quite simple, and travellers have several convenient options. The airport is located approximately 17 kilometres northeast of the city, and the journey usually takes between 25 and 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. When planning your route, please consider that in Mexico, as elsewhere, traffic congestion is possible during peak hours.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport is by taxi or transfer. The airport operates a system of authorised taxis with fixed rates. You can purchase a ticket for your trip at a dedicated counter in the arrivals terminal, which guarantees safety and a fair price. Popular ride-hailing services like Uber and DiDi also operate in the city and may offer competitive rates. For maximum convenience, especially if you are travelling with family or large luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning not only a trip to the airport but also independent exploration of the region. San Luis Potosi Airport hosts offices of major international and local rental companies. You can rent a car upon arrival or book it online in advance to secure better terms. Having your own transport will give you complete freedom of movement around the picturesque surroundings.

Regarding public transport, there is generally no direct bus service between the city centre and the airport. However, there is a budget-friendly option — collective route taxis known as "colectivos". These are minibuses that depart once they are full and drop passengers off along the route. A trip on such a shuttle will cost significantly less than a taxi but may take longer as it makes stops along the way. This option is ideal for solo travellers with light luggage.

If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, airport parking is at your disposal. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal. This is a safe and convenient way to leave your car for the duration of your absence.

San Luis Potosí International Airport (SLP), also known as Ponciano Arriaga Airport, is distinguished by its compactness and convenient organisation. It consists of one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, travellers do not need to worry about transferring between terminals — all zones are located within a single building.

The airport layout is intuitive. The terminal is conceptually divided into two main parts: the Departure zone (Salidas) and the Arrival zone (Llegadas). In the Departure zone on the ground floor, you will find airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks. After checking in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where they pass through security screening and enter the airside area with boarding gates.

The Arrival zone is also located on the ground floor. After disembarking, passengers proceed to the baggage claim carousels and then pass through customs control if arriving on an international flight. The arrivals hall houses car rental offices, taxi counters, and the meeting area.

Completing all formalities at SLP Airport typically proceeds quickly and without delays due to its small size. Flight check-in and security screening rarely take much time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to adhere to standard rules: arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight to avoid any unforeseen situations.

For navigation, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are always ready to help and give directions. The main tip is not to worry about getting lost. The compact structure makes this airport one of the easiest to navigate, allowing passengers to comfortably begin or end their journey.

The history of Ponciano Arriaga International Airport (SLP) is inextricably linked to the economic and industrial development of the city of San Luis Potosi. The air harbour, named after a prominent 19th-century Mexican lawyer and politician, was officially opened in 1970. Initially, it served as an important hub for domestic transport, connecting the growing industrial centre with key cities in Mexico.

As the region's industrial potential grew and international trade volumes increased, the airport began to play a more significant role. A major milestone was receiving international status, which allowed for the launch of the first flights to cities in the United States. This event contributed to further attracting foreign investment to the state and strengthened its economic ties.

A turning point in the modern history of the airport occurred in 2000, when management was transferred to the private operator Grupo Aeroportuario Centro Norte (OMA). From that moment, an era of active modernisation and expansion began. Works were carried out to improve the runway and navigation equipment, allowing for the reception of larger aircraft and enhancing flight safety.

The most extensive reconstruction was completed in 2018-2019. As a result of this project, a new, spacious, and modern passenger terminal was built. Its capacity increased significantly, and maximum comfort conditions were created for travellers. Today, San Luis Potosi Airport acts not only as an important gateway for tourists and business travellers but also as one of the key logistics and cargo hubs in the central part of the country.

San Luis Potosí Airport (SLP) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its compact dimensions, the terminal is well-equipped and thoughtfully designed for traveller convenience.

Within the airport, you will find several cafés and dining outlets where you can have a snack before departure or a full meal. Establishments offering both local cuisine and fast food are represented here. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and duty-free products.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport features a VIP Lounge (OMA Premium Lounge). Here, passengers can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and utilise business services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting areas.

The terminal operates ATMs and currency exchange points, allowing you to settle financial matters right upon arrival or before departure. A medical unit is available for emergency assistance.

The airport is adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: ramps and specially equipped restrooms are available. Families with small children can use the nursing rooms for infant care.

Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, offering shuttle services for their guests. Business travellers can make use of conference halls and meeting rooms provided in nearby hotels or as part of the VIP lounge service.

At San Luis Potosi Airport (SLP), passengers have access to a variety of establishments where they can either have a quick snack or a full meal while waiting for their flight. The selection of dining points caters to different tastes and preferences, so you certainly won't go hungry.

The main cafés, beverage counters, and restaurant are concentrated in the main terminal building. Establishments are located both in the public area, before security control, and in the secure departure zone. This allows you to conveniently plan your time and have a bite at any stage of your stay at the airport.

For a substantial lunch, head to the airport restaurant, which serves international dishes and traditional Mexican cuisine. This is a wonderful opportunity to taste authentic regional flavours, such as the famous enchiladas potosinas. If time is limited, coffee shops and snack bars offer sandwiches, fresh pastries, and aromatic coffee. The refreshment area in the departure zone is a great place to relax with a beverage before boarding.

Passengers with special dietary needs also have options available. Vegetarians will find salads and vegetable snacks on the menu, which are often a safe choice for Halal-conscious travellers. To confirm the availability of gluten-free or vegan dishes, it is best to ask the staff directly. Please note that prices for food and drinks at SLP Airport correspond to the standard level for air terminals and will be higher than in the city. The opening hours of most establishments are aligned with the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers on both morning and evening flights.

To ensure your journey through San Luis Potosí Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these useful tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and save time and money, allowing you to focus on the pleasant experiences of your trip.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure, especially if you have an international flight. To save time in queues, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline offers this option. Have your passport, boarding pass, and other necessary documents ready at check-in counters and while passing through security control.

Hand Luggage and Screening: Standard security rules apply here. All liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for separate scanning. Check your airline's website in advance for allowable hand luggage dimensions and weight to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Seat Selection and Savings: When checking in, consider your seat choice. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats allow you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. If you need more legroom, consider emergency exit seats (often for an additional fee). To save money, bring an empty water bottle that you can fill after passing security, along with light snacks.

Transfers and Customs: If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically checked through to the final destination or if you need to collect and re-check it. For international flights arriving in Mexico, you will need to pass passport and customs control. Honestly declare all goods subject to control, and have your completed migration card and customs declaration ready.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, stay calm. First, contact your airline's counter or check information on the official website to find out the reason and estimated departure time. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Do not hesitate to ask for information about your rights as a passenger.