To ensure your journey through Carlos Rovirosa Pérez International Airport goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, stress, and money when travelling around Mexico or abroad from the city of Villahermosa.
Airport Arrival Time. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights—1.5-2 hours. This time will be sufficient to calmly go through all formalities, including check-in, baggage drop, and security screening, especially during peak hours.
Check-in and Security. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24-48 hours before departure. At the airport, keep your passport and boarding pass ready. During screening, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronic devices, as well as liquid containers, from your carry-on luggage.
Seat Selection. During online check-in, you will have the opportunity to select a seat. Do you enjoy looking at clouds and landscapes? Choose a window seat. Do you prefer freedom of movement so you can stand up and stretch without disturbing neighbours? Your choice would be an aisle seat. Seats with extra legroom (e.g., at emergency exits) offer additional comfort but often require an extra fee and come with certain responsibilities. Try to avoid seats in the last row and near the galley or lavatories—it tends to be noisier and busier there.
Carry-on Luggage. Remember standard international rules: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Portable chargers (power banks) must be carried in carry-on luggage only.
Customs Control. When entering Mexico, you will have to undergo customs control. A "traffic light" system (semaforo fiscal) is often used: you press a button, and if a green light turns on, you pass without inspection, but if it is red, your luggage will be inspected. Fill out the customs declaration honestly to avoid fines.
Money Saving Tips. Exchanging currency at the airport is often unprofitable due to high exchange rates. It is better to withdraw a little cash from an ATM upon arrival or exchange a small amount needed for the initial period. To avoid spending on water, bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control.
Transfer Passengers. Villahermosa Airport is not a major international hub, so transfers here are most often domestic. Check with your airline if you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave a sufficient buffer of time between flights, especially if you are arriving on an international flight and need to go through border and customs control.
In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights (e.g., provision of beverages, meals, or accommodation). There are cafés and shops in the airport where you can pass the time. Having travel insurance that covers flight delays can compensate for unforeseen expenses.