Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport

Welcome to Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport — your gateway to the heart of Michoacán state. This airport is not merely a transit hub, but the starting point for a journey into a region known as the "avocado capital of the world," a land of rich traditions of the Purépecha indigenous people, and amazing natural wonders. It is from here that routes to the famous Parícutin volcano and picturesque lakes begin, making it the perfect start for an unforgettable adventure in Mexico.

Despite its modest size, Uruapan Airport offers significant advantages for travellers. Its compactness and simple navigation allow for quick completion of all pre-flight and post-flight formalities, avoiding the hustle and bustle of major aviation hubs. The airport holds international status and operates flights to key cities such as Tijuana and Los Angeles, ensuring convenient connections to the northern border and the USA. Its key asset is its strategic location, allowing tourists to immediately set off for the region's main attractions: the national park, home to North America's youngest volcano, Parícutin, and the picturesque Lake Zirahuén.

Below is the contact information for Uruapan International Airport, officially known as Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport (UPN).

• Official Website: www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/es/uruapan.html. This is the airport's page on the portal of the operating company, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP).
• Help Desk Phone: +52 (452) 523 8899.
• Airport Address: Carretera Uruapan-Los Reyes Km. 3, Col. Jicalán, C.P. 60090, Uruapan, Michoacán State, Mexico.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website or call the listed phone number for communication.
• Social Media: News and updates can be followed on the pages of the operating company GAP, which represents the airport's interests on social media.
  • Facebook: facebook.com/GrupoAeroportuarioDelPacifico
  • X (formerly Twitter): twitter.com/aeropuertosGAP
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost, please contact your airline's representative at the airport first. regarding items left within the terminal building, contact airport security via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the help desk at: +52 (452) 523 8899.

Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport (UPN) is located very close to the city centre of Uruapan, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose from several ways to reach the terminal, depending on their budget and preferences. In general, the transport system in this part of Mexico is well-developed.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the easiest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. The trip from Uruapan centre will take only about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to use official taxi services or agree on the fare with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings. The cost of the trip will be reasonable due to the short distance. You can also book a transfer through your hotel, which guarantees a fixed price and reliability.

For budget-conscious travellers, public transport is suitable. Although there is no direct express bus to the airport, you can use local minibuses (*colectivos*) that circulate around the city. This is the cheapest option, but it may not be very convenient if you have a lot of luggage. A transfer may be required. To find the right route, it is best to ask locals or your hotel staff for advice.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning not only to visit Uruapan but also to explore the picturesque surroundings, such as the Parícutin volcano. You can rent a car both at the airport upon arrival and at one of the city offices. The airport provides parking where you can leave your vehicle for a short or long term, which is convenient if you have arrived in your own car.

If you haven't found suitable direct flights to Uruapan, it is worth considering alternative options. There are several other airports nearby. The closest major one is Morelia Airport (MLM), located approximately 118 km away. Another major international hub is Miguel Hidalgo International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara, from where you can reach Uruapan by a comfortable intercity bus in a few hours. There are also smaller airports in the region, such as Colima Airport and Lázaro Cárdenas Airport.

Uruapan Airport, officially known as Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport (UPN), is a small and convenient aviation hub. It is designed for efficient passenger service, so navigating it will not cause difficulties even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its compact size, all key zones are within walking distance of each other, eliminating the need for long walks. There is no separation into multiple buildings, so you won't have to worry about transferring between terminals.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, and then to a small departure lounge with boarding gates. The arrivals area is also located in the same building and includes a baggage claim belt and customs control for international flights.

Registration and security procedures at Uruapan Airport usually proceed quite quickly compared to major hubs. 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 complete all formalities without rushing, even during periods of increased activity.

The history of the international airport of Uruapan, officially named in honour of Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon, is closely intertwined with the economic development of Michoacán state in Mexico. Although the exact founding date is not a widely known fact, its creation was dictated by the region's growing need for reliable air connections for both passengers and cargo.

The airport received its name in honour of a prominent figure in the Mexican War of Independence. Ignacio López Rayón was a key figure in the struggle for the country's sovereignty in the early 19th century, and the airport's name serves as a tribute to his contribution to the nation's history. This choice highlights the region's deep historical roots and patriotism.

The main phase of the airport's development occurred in the second half of the 20th century, when Uruapan consolidated its status as the "avocado capital of the world". The air harbour became a critically important logistics hub for the export of this valuable product, primarily to the USA. This transformed it from a small regional airfield into an international cargo hub. To meet international standards and increase capacity, the airport has been modernized repeatedly, including runway extensions and terminal complex updates.

An interesting fact from the airport's history lies in its dual role. On one hand, it is a gateway for tourists wishing to explore the "Barranca del Cupatitzio" National Park and the Parícutin volcano. On the other, it is a vital economic engine ensuring the lion's share of global avocado supplies by air. It is this unique specialization in agro-export that remains the main achievement and distinguishing feature of Uruapan Airport throughout its modern history.

Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport (UPN), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern and functional terminal focused on traveller convenience.

For those wishing to have a snack or buy souvenirs, the airport has small cafes and snack bars offering local dishes, sandwiches, and beverages. There are also several shops where you can purchase travel essentials, press, and gifts to remember your trip by. Although the selection is not as extensive as in major hubs, everything necessary for a short wait is available here.

For passenger comfort, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in the waiting areas. Regarding financial services, the airport has ATMs for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points may be limited, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance.

Uruapan Airport is equipped to serve passengers with special needs. Ramps, accessible restrooms, and special assistance from staff during boarding and disembarking are provided. Families with children can use the mother and child rooms. In case of necessity, a medical station operates in the terminal to provide first aid.

Although there are no hotels within the airport building itself, numerous accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity and in the city of Uruapan — from budget guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Specialized VIP lounges or business centres are absent at the airport; however, the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable for all categories of passengers.

Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport (UPN) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but quite sufficient for a snack before departure. Options are concentrated in the single terminal and cater to the basic needs of travellers.

Generally, you will find a few small cafes and snack bars in the airport. Typically, one or two establishments are located in the public area before security control (landside), and another point with drinks and snacks may be found in the departure area (airside). Here you can have coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as buy sandwiches, pastries, and packaged snacks — an ideal option for a quick bite.

For a more substantial meal, a small cafe-restaurant usually operates. The menu features simple but filling dishes, often with an emphasis on popular items of Mexican cuisine, such as quesadillas (tortillas with cheese), tortas (local sandwiches), or tacos. Since the city of Uruapan is known as the avocado capital of the world, you can often find this fresh ingredient in the dishes.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions should be prepared that finding specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes here will be extremely difficult. Vegetarians will likely be able to order something simple, such as a quesadilla with cheese or vegetables. If you have specific dietary needs, it is recommended to bring food with you.

The price range at the airport is moderate, but as everywhere, slightly higher than in city establishments. The opening hours of cafes and snack bars depend directly on the flight schedule — they open a few hours before the first flight and close after the departure of the last one. If you have enough time, the best solution would be to have a full lunch at one of the numerous restaurants in the city of Uruapan before travelling to the airport.

Planning a journey through Licenciado y General Ignacio Lopez Rayon Airport in the city of Uruapan? To ensure your trip to Mexico goes smoothly, make use of these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you enough time for all procedures without unnecessary rushing, although it is always better to verify your airline's recommendations.

Check-in and security procedures at Uruapan Airport are standard, but since it is not the largest aviation hub, queues here can be shorter. To save time, complete online check-in if possible. Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass handy. During security screening, be prepared to remove all electronic devices and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. A window seat will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the picturesque surroundings of Michoacán state, especially during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat provides more legroom and allows you to stand up freely. Regarding hand luggage, remember the standard restrictions: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml (packed in a transparent bag), no sharp objects or flammable substances. Always check your airline's baggage allowance to avoid extra charges.

If you have a layover in Uruapan, note that this is a small airport with a limited range of services. Clarify with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Arrivals from abroad will have to pass through customs control. Fill out the customs declaration in advance, which is usually distributed on the plane, and be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your visit and the contents of your luggage.

To save time and money, book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher, so you can bring a small snack with you. It is more profitable to pay in Mexico using the local currency — Mexican Pesos, so exchange a small amount in advance or withdraw cash from an ATM upon arrival.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, the first thing to do is contact your airline's representative. Remain calm and clarify the reason for the delay and your rights to compensation (for example, vouchers for meals or hotel accommodation). Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to inform those meeting you about the delay or check the status of your next flight. Patience and being informed are your best helpers in such a situation.