Mercedita Airport

Mercedita International Airport is the air gateway to the southern part of Puerto Rico, serving as a convenient starting point for exploring the island's Caribbean coast. Located near the "Pearl of the South," the city of Ponce, this airport offers a calmer and faster alternative to the main airport in San Juan. Although smaller in size, its strategic position makes it an ideal choice for tourists seeking to discover the cultural treasures and natural beauty of this region.

The main advantage of Mercedita Airport is its compactness and convenience. Passengers do not have to spend much time passing through controls or waiting for luggage, allowing them to start their journey along the southern coast much sooner. The airport mainly serves flights from US cities such as New York and Orlando, making it popular amongst American tourists. Simple navigation, the availability of basic services including car rental, and proximity to the region's main attractions make Mercedita Airport an excellent choice for a comfortable start to your holiday in Puerto Rico.

Below you will find essential contact information for Mercedita Airport (PSE) in the city of Ponce, which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: You can find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website: www.aeropuertolmm.com/ponce-airport.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you may contact the airport administration by phone: +1 (787) 842-6292.
• Airport Address: 9000 Ave. Aeropuerto, Ponce, 00715, Puerto Rico.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Links to the airport's official social media pages are usually posted on their website. This is the best way to follow news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact your airline's representative. For items left in the terminal building (not on board the aircraft), please contact the airport administration.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most questions related to airport services, you may call the main information desk number.

Mercedita Airport (PSE) is conveniently located just a few kilometres east of the city centre of Ponce, making it quite simple to get to or from the city. A journey by car usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes, but the choice of transport depends on your budget, plans, and amount of luggage.

Taxis and Transfers. This is perhaps the most popular and reliable method. You will easily find taxis at the exit of the arrivals terminal. The trip to the centre of Ponce is quick, and the cost is usually around 20–25 USD. For added convenience, especially if you are travelling in a group or with a lot of luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance. Some hotels also offer shuttle services for their guests.

Car Rental. If you plan to explore not only Ponce but also other beauties of the southern coast of Puerto Rico, renting a car is the ideal option. Several international and local rental company offices are present at Mercedita Airport. It is recommended to book a car online in advance to guarantee the availability of the desired model and secure the best price. This provides maximum freedom of movement around the island.

Public Transport. It is worth noting that direct and regular public transport connections (known locally as guaguas) to Mercedita Airport are very limited. Relying on buses to arrive on time for a flight can be risky and inconvenient with luggage. Therefore, this option is generally not recommended for tourists.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own or a rented car, parking is provided on the airport grounds. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, located within walking distance of the terminal.

Mercedita Airport (PSE) is a compact and functional aviation hub. Despite its size, it holds international status and serves flights to US cities, acting as an important air gateway for the south of Puerto Rico. Its main feature is the presence of a single passenger terminal, which makes navigation intuitive and fast even for first-time visitors.

The terminal consists of a single building combining all passenger service zones. The airport layout is extremely simple: upon entry, you immediately find yourself in the general area with airline check-in counters. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small departure area with several gates. The arrival area is located in the same part of the building but with a separate exit to the baggage claim belt and the city.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals. All processes — from check-in to boarding — take place within a single building. This saves significant time and eliminates unnecessary stress. The departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but are within walking distance of each other.

Thanks to the airport's small size, completing all formalities usually does not take much time. Check-in and security screening generally proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all procedures without rushing. To navigate, simply follow the signs, which are clearly visible and understandable, although it is practically impossible to get lost here even without them.

The history of Mercedita Airport (PSE) is closely intertwined with the development of the southern region of Puerto Rico. The airport was built in 1939 and was initially used as a military airfield. It received its name in honour of the nearby Hacienda Mercedita, which belonged to the Serrallés family, famous rum producers. After the end of World War II, the need for a military facility diminished, and in 1948 the airport was transferred to the Puerto Rico Ports Authority for civilian use, opening a new chapter in its history.

With the transition to civilian management, a period of gradual growth began. Mercedita Airport became a key transport hub for the city of Ponce and its surroundings, providing air connections to other parts of the island and, eventually, to the US mainland. This contributed to the economic and tourism development of the entire southern coast. The first commercial flights linked Ponce with San Juan, and later with other destinations.

One of the most significant stages in the airport's history was the major reconstruction in the early 1990s. In 1992, work was completed to extend the runway, allowing the airport to accommodate larger jet aircraft, such as the Boeing 727. This modernisation opened doors for direct flights from the USA and significantly increased passenger traffic. In subsequent years, the terminal has been repeatedly updated to improve passenger comfort and meet modern safety standards.

An interesting fact: despite its relatively small size compared to the international airport in San Juan, Mercedita consistently ranks among the top three busiest airports in Puerto Rico. It has played a critically important role during recovery periods following natural disasters, serving as a vital centre for delivering humanitarian aid and evacuation. Today, the airport continues to be an important air gateway serving both tourists and residents, and is an integral part of the transport infrastructure of the "Pearl of the South," as Ponce is often called.

Mercedita Airport (PSE) is a compact regional airport that nevertheless offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is intuitive, and all amenities are within walking distance.

Small cafés and snack bars operate for passengers, where one can have a bite to eat or drink coffee before departure. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, press, and essential goods. Although there are no dedicated VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting areas are equipped with comfortable seating.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Financial services are represented by ATMs; however, specialised currency exchange points may not be available, so it is recommended to arrange this in advance.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and special parking. Passengers requiring assistance with boarding or moving through the terminal can request an escort service through their airline. Mother and child rooms are provided for travellers with small children. In case of necessity, one can visit the first aid station.

There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Ponce, which is easily accessible by taxi. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are not provided at Mercedita Airport, which is typical for smaller aviation hubs in Puerto Rico.

Mercedita Airport (PSE) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find everything necessary for a quick snack or a cup of coffee before departure. It is important to understand that options for a full lunch or dinner are practically non-existent, so it is recommended to eat beforehand in the city of Ponce.

The main place to grab a bite is a small café or snack bar, usually located in the departure area after passing security control (airside). Here, travellers are offered a standard selection: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, sweets, as well as hot and cold drinks. This is an ideal option for those who want to refresh themselves quickly without leaving the main terminal.

Despite the modest selection, try to find some local specialities. Be sure to try the famous Puerto Rican coffee — it is aromatic and strong here. Sometimes local snacks can be found on sale, for example, pastelillos (small pastries with filling). This is a great opportunity to enjoy the flavours of Puerto Rico one last time before departure.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or Halal dishes) are strongly advised to bring food with them. Specialised options at Mercedita Airport are likely not represented. Prices for food and drinks correspond to the average level for airports — they are higher than in the city. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open before the first departures and close after the last aircraft leaves.

To ensure your journey through Mercedita Airport (PSE) goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these tips. Although it is a small regional airport, proper preparation will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights (to the US mainland) and 3 hours before international ones. Despite the compact size of the terminal, queues can form at check-in counters and security checkpoints during peak hours. To save time, complete online check-in in advance and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone.

Passing Security Control: Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules apply at the airport. Be prepared to remove outerwear, belts, and take all items out of your pockets. Laptops and large electronics must be removed from bags. For liquids in hand luggage, the 3-1-1 rule applies: containers no larger than 100 ml (3.4 oz) must be packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: If you are flying from Ponce to the north or east, window seats on the right side may offer you a farewell view of the Caribbean coast. Check your airline's hand luggage and baggage allowances in advance to avoid extra charges at the airport. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous goods are prohibited in hand luggage.

Customs Control and Transfers: Most flights from Mercedita Airport are to the US mainland and are considered domestic, so upon arrival at your destination, you do not need to pass passport or customs control. If you are flying with a transfer, keep in mind that PSE is not a major transit hub. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you need to re-check your luggage.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for current information and possible options (for example, rebooking on another flight). Follow updates via the airline's mobile app. Leisure opportunities in the terminal are limited, so in case of a long delay, you might consider a trip to the city if time permits.