CBX Tijuana

Imagine being able to cross an international border on foot in just a few minutes. Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is a unique cross-border terminal located in San Diego, USA. It is an enclosed pedestrian bridge approximately 119 meters long, connecting the US terminal directly to Tijuana International Airport.

This facility allows passengers to complete all customs and border formalities on the US side, completely avoiding the long waits at standard land crossings. The 65,000-square-foot terminal was designed by the renowned architect Ricardo Legorreta, who masterfully used the concept of open spaces and gardens with desert plants reflecting the local landscape.

Today, CBX has its own airport code, TJC, and connects travelers to over 40 destinations within Mexico, as well as international flights to China. This innovative solution has made travel between the two countries as fast and comfortable as possible for thousands of tourists annually.

To plan your trip, it is helpful to know the exact coordinates and the official terminal resource.

The main thing to do here is to cross the border as comfortably and quickly as possible. Passengers can enjoy a walk across the modern bridge, which offers views of the border zone. Inside the terminal, all conditions for relaxation have been created: spacious waiting lounges, shops, and restaurants allow you to spend time productively before your flight.

For those traveling by their own car, huge parking services are available, and those arriving in the US can easily use Uber and Lyft pickup zones or rent a car at one of the major rental agency desks. The grounds also feature a picturesque desert plant garden, where you can take a breather and get ready for your upcoming journey.

The CBX terminal is ideal for tourists who want to save time and money by using flights from Tijuana Airport. After a simple check-in and security screening in San Diego, you simply cross the bridge and find yourself right at the airport gates, ready for your flight.

The most convenient way to reach the terminal at Otay Pacific Dr, San Diego, CA 92154 is by car. The drive from the city center takes about 25–30 minutes: follow I-5 South, then merge onto I-805 South and take the CA-125 highway, which will lead you directly to the TJC terminal signs.

If you prefer a taxi, you can easily order an Uber or Lyft from anywhere in the city. For passengers arriving from other areas, this is the easiest way to get directly to the entrance. It is important to remember that only those with valid boarding passes for a flight from Tijuana Airport can enter the terminal.

The complex features an extensive parking lot with 8,500 spaces, including short-term and long-term parking zones. Follow the clear signs on the approach to quickly find a spot and make it to your flight on time.

The history of this unique bridge began back in 1965 when Gilberto Valenzuela proposed the idea of a joint airport at Otay Mesa to the city mayor. However, the project was considered too ambitious for its time and was shelved for decades until a new pedestrian terminal concept emerged in 1989.

After a quarter-century of complex negotiations and a land acquisition process, including the famous Martinez Ranch for $34.5 million, the project finally received the green light. Construction began in June 2014 under the leadership of Otay Tijuana Venture LLC with support from major international investors.

The grand opening of the Cross Border Xpress took place on December 9, 2015, with a total project implementation cost of approximately $120 million. Interestingly, the terminal's architectural look, created by Ricardo Legorreta, was specifically designed to emphasize the unity of the region through open spaces and local flora.

Travelers typically need between 1 to 2 hours to comfortably go through all necessary procedures, including parking, check-in, and the bridge crossing itself. This time may vary depending on current queues at customs and border control.

Despite potential inspections, this route is considered a significantly faster option compared to standard land border crossings. It is recommended to allow extra time to enjoy the terminal's shops or relaxation areas without rushing.

The Cross Border Xpress terminal usually operates daily from 4:00 AM to 12:00 AM. This schedule accommodates most morning and night flights, ensuring a seamless flow of passengers between countries.

However, the exact operating hours of individual services and control zones may depend on current airline schedules. Visitors are highly recommended to check the latest information on the official website before heading to the terminal.

Exploring the terminal's surroundings can significantly enrich your Southern California travel experience. There are many amusement parks and outdoor recreation areas within reasonable reach.