Ordaz International Airport

Located in the beautiful coastal city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Ordaz International Airport is the main gateway for tourists looking to experience the warmth and hospitality of this popular vacation destination. Named after the former governor of Jalisco, Gustavo Díaz Ordaz, this airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting travelers to cities across Mexico, North America, and even Europe. With its convenient location and modern facilities, Ordaz International Airport continues to play a crucial role in promoting tourism and economic growth in the region.

History of Ordaz International Airport

The first airport in Puerto Vallarta was built in the 1950s, during the early development of the city as a tourist destination. However, it quickly became apparent that this airport was not equipped to handle the increasing number of visitors to the area. In 1966, the Mexican government approved plans for a new international airport to be built, with construction beginning in 1968. The new airport, named after Gustavo Díaz Ordaz, officially opened in 1974 and has undergone several expansions and upgrades since then to accommodate the growing demand for air travel to Puerto Vallarta.

Terminal and Facilities

The terminal of Ordaz International Airport is a modern and spacious facility, hosting over 4 million passengers each year. With its clean and modern design, the terminal provides a pleasant and efficient experience for travelers. The airport has two levels, with the lower level serving arrivals and the upper level serving departures, both easily accessible via escalators and elevators. The terminal is equipped with all necessary amenities, including souvenir shops, duty-free stores, currency exchange services, ATMs, and restaurants serving a variety of local and international cuisine.

One notable feature of the airport is the extensive use of natural light, with large windows and skylights allowing for bright and airy spaces throughout the terminal. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the airport but also reduces the need for artificial lighting and contributes to its environmentally friendly design.

Flights and Airlines

Ordaz International Airport currently operates with two runways, able to accommodate a wide range of aircraft, including large commercial planes such as the Boeing 747. It serves as a hub for major Mexican airlines, such as Aeromexico and Volaris, as well as international airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines.

The airport offers direct flights to and from many major cities in Mexico, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, making it a convenient choice for both business and leisure travelers. It also has direct flights to and from major cities in the United States, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Dallas, as well as direct flights to Vancouver, Canada, and Paris, France.

Future Plans for Expansion

To keep up with the increasing demand for air travel to Puerto Vallarta, plans are in place for the expansion of Ordaz International Airport. The expansion project, expected to begin in 2021, will include the construction of a new terminal, adding 22 new gates and increasing the airport’s capacity to over 20 million passengers per year. This will not only improve the airport’s efficiency and reduce wait times for travelers but also contribute to the economic growth of the region by attracting more tourists and businesses.

Transportation and Accessibility

Located just 10 minutes away from downtown Puerto Vallarta, Ordaz International Airport is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Taxis, buses, and rental cars are readily available at the airport, providing convenient options for travelers to reach their final destination. The airport also has a parking lot with over 1,000 spaces for those driving themselves to and from the airport.

In addition, the airport has multiple services in place to ensure the comfort and accessibility of travelers with disabilities. This includes accessible restrooms, ramps, and reserved parking spaces.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. With its proximity to the airport, travelers can quickly and easily immerse themselves in all that this city has to offer. From relaxing on the golden sands of its beaches to exploring the charming Old Town, there is no shortage of activities to keep visitors entertained.

The nearby mountains also offer exciting outdoor adventures, such as hiking, zip-lining, and ATV tours. And for those looking to experience the local cuisine, Puerto Vallarta has an abundance of restaurants serving traditional Mexican dishes as well as international cuisine.

In conclusion

Ordaz International Airport serves as a vital connection between Puerto Vallarta and the rest of the world, providing easy access to this popular vacation destination. With its modern facilities, efficient operations, and plans for future expansion, this airport continues to play a crucial role in promoting tourism and economic growth in the region. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, one thing is for sure – your journey through Ordaz International Airport will be a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable experience.