Tampico International Airport

Tampico International Airport, officially named after General Francisco Javier Mina, serves as the aerial gateway to the vibrant Huasteca region on the Gulf of Mexico coast. This airport has played a historic role in the development of aviation in Mexico: it was from here in the 1920s that one of the first commercial flights to Mexico City was operated. Today, it is a modern transport hub serving not only tourist traffic but also functioning as an important business centre for the region's oil industry.

Despite its relatively small size, Tampico Airport offers passengers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable journey. The terminal building houses cafes, car rental desks, ATMs, and a waiting lounge. Thanks to its compact design and efficient logistics, completing all pre-flight formalities usually takes minimal time. Proximity to the city is one of its main advantages: you can reach the centre of Tampico or the neighbouring resort towns of Ciudad Madero and Altamira in just 15-20 minutes by taxi.

Below you will find contact information for General Francisco Javier Mina International Airport (TAM), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: oma.aero/es/aeropuertos/tampico/ (OMA operator site)
• Information Desk Phone: +52 (833) 478-7000
• Airport Address: Carretera Tampico-Mante Km. 13.5, C.P. 89339, Tampico, Tamaulipas, México
• Email: No official public email address is listed. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's website for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the airport operator OMA's pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, please contact your airline's representative office directly in the first instance. If you have left personal items in the airport terminal, contact the Lost and Found service via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and assistance, please call the main airport information desk number.

There are several ways to get to Tampico International Airport (TAM) from the city centre and its surroundings. The airport is located relatively close to the central part of the city, so the journey will not take much time. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is via local city buses (colectivos). Routes pass near the airport; however, there is usually no direct express to the terminal, and a short walk from the stop may be required. This option is ideal for travellers with light luggage who wish to save money. The fare is minimal, but please note that buses can be crowded and lack dedicated space for large luggage. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi and Private Transfer

A taxi is the most convenient and popular way to reach the airport. The trip from the centre of Tampico will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. For safety, it is recommended to use official taxis or trusted ride-hailing apps. You can also book a private transfer in advance — this is particularly convenient if you are travelling with family or a large group, as the driver will meet you at a designated spot with a name sign, and the cost will be fixed beforehand.

Car Rental

If you plan to move around the region actively and not depend on public transport schedules, renting a car is an excellent solution. Several major car rental companies operate at Tampico International Airport. You can rent a car upon arrival or book it online in advance, which is often more cost-effective. The route from the city centre is simple and straightforward, and having a car will give you the freedom to explore not only Tampico but also other beauties of Mexico.

Airport Parking

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, convenient parking is provided. It is located in immediate proximity to the terminal and offers both short-term and long-term parking options. Rates depend on the duration of parking. This is a safe and reliable way to leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip.

General Francisco Javier Mina International Airport (TAM) in Tampico consists of one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its compact structure, the airport is very easy to navigate, and passengers do not have to worry about complex transfers between terminals.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The Departures zone and Arrivals zone are located in the same building, which significantly simplifies orientation. On the ground floor, you will find airline check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and exits to the city. After checking in, passengers proceed to the upper level, where the security checkpoint and boarding gates are located. Despite its modest size, the terminal has everything necessary: several cafes, souvenir shops, duty-free stores, and car rental offices.

Check-in and security procedures at Tampico Airport usually proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and relax a bit before the flight.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are always ready to help and provide directions. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and manageable passenger flow, finding your way around Tampico Airport is easy even for those visiting for the first time.

Tampico International Airport, officially named after General Francisco Javier Mina (IATA code: TAM), is not just a transport hub but a true monument to the history of aviation in Mexico. Its history began in 1929, making it one of the oldest and first commercial airports in the country. Since its founding, it has played a key role in connecting the region with the rest of the world, witnessing the birth and development of air travel.

At the dawn of aviation, the airport in Tampico became a crucial point on the routes of legendary airlines. It was from here that Mexicana de Aviación operated its first international flight on the Mexico City – Tuxpan – Tampico – Brownsville (Texas) route, forever inscribing the city in the history of global civil aviation. The airline Pan American also used it as a strategic hub for flights connecting the USA with Central and South America. The rapid development of the airport was closely linked to the oil boom in the region, as it ensured the fast transport of specialists and cargo.

Over time, the airport has been modernized repeatedly to meet growing requirements and safety standards. A significant phase of renewal began in 2000, when management was transferred to the operator OMA (Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte). Large-scale works were carried out to reconstruct the passenger terminal, upgrade the runway, and modernize navigation equipment, which enhanced passenger comfort and operational efficiency.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is its unofficial status as the "cradle of Mexican international aviation" thanks to that very first flight. For nearly a century, it has remained the important aerial gateway to the state of Tamaulipas, successfully combining rich historical heritage with modern infrastructure and a high level of service.

Tampico International Airport (TAM) offers passengers a wide range of services to make their stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. Before departure or after arrival, you will be able to access everything needed for a pleasant journey.

The terminal features various cafes and restaurants where you can grab a quick snack or have a full meal, enjoying Mexican and international cuisine. Shops offer an assortment of souvenirs, local goods, press, and essential items. For those looking for exclusive products, duty-free shops are available.

For passengers preferring a more private atmosphere, a VIP Lounge is available with comfortable seating, beverages, and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices allow you to stay connected at all times.

The airport features bank branches and currency exchange points where financial matters can be easily resolved. In case of need, there is a medical unit in the terminal for first aid.

Special nursing rooms are provided for travellers with children. The airport is also fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and assistance is provided for moving through the terminal.

Several hotels are located near the airport, which is convenient for transit passengers or those with an early flight. For business travellers, conference rooms and business services may be available, allowing you to hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment.

At Tampico International Airport (TAM), travellers can comfortably spend time waiting for their flight by choosing one of several options for a snack or a full meal. Despite the compact size of the terminal, there are establishments here capable of satisfying the appetite of any tourist.

The main establishment for a full meal is located in the public area, before security control (landside). Here you will find the restaurant Wings, which is excellent for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Its menu features both international dishes (such as burgers and salads) and classics of Mexican cuisine. This is a wonderful opportunity to try famous local seafood dishes, for example, with crab (jaiba).

After passing through inspection, in the secure departure zone (airside), the choice focuses on quick service. Coffee shops and snack bars, such as OMA C-Point, operate here. This is the ideal place to grab quality coffee, fresh pastries, sandwiches, or soft drinks to take onto the plane. For a quick snack, this is the best option.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be limited. However, the menu at Wings usually includes vegetable salads, and fruit can be found in the coffee shops. We recommend clarifying the ingredients of dishes with the staff. Prices in airport establishments are moderately high, which is standard practice for air hubs.

Most cafes and restaurants operate in accordance with the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and close after the last plane departs. However, it is worth noting that some smaller outlets may have breaks in the middle of the day, so it is better to plan your visit in advance.

To ensure your journey through Tampico International Airport (TAM) goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. Proper preparation will help save time, stress, and money, setting a positive tone for your entire trip to Mexico.

Arrival Time at the Airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within the country — 1.5-2 hours. This time is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass pre-flight security without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. During security screening, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets from your hand luggage, as well as your transparent bag of liquids.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. A window seat is ideal for those who enjoy admiring the views. An aisle seat gives more freedom to move around the cabin. Seats in the front of the plane usually allow for a quicker exit after landing.

Hand Luggage. Remember the standard rules: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each. All of them must be packed in a single transparent resealable bag. It is strictly forbidden to take sharp objects (knives, scissors), flammable substances, and weapons into the cabin. Always keep valuables, documents, and medication with you in your hand luggage.

Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight in Tampico, check at registration whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Immediately after arrival, find the gate number for your next flight on the information screens. Signs for "Connections" or "Tránsitos" will help you orient yourself in the airport.

Customs Control. When arriving from another country, you will need to pass through customs control. Be ready to present your passport and the completed migration form (FMM), which is often distributed on the plane. In some cases, a "traffic light" system may operate: a green light means you can pass without a luggage inspection, while a red light means your luggage will be checked by a customs officer.

Saving Time and Money. Book a transfer from the airport online in advance; this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — it can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security control, saving you from buying overpriced water.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for the latest information. Remain calm and find out about your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be offered vouchers for food, beverages, or even hotel accommodation.