The recent data from Mexico’s three leading airport operators reveals that Puerto Vallarta is experiencing a significant increase in passenger traffic, whereas Cancún is facing a decline. In May, overall passenger traffic across Mexican airports reached 10.2 million, marking a 1.8% annual increase. Notably, domestic travel showed particular strength with a 3.5% monthly growth, although international passenger numbers fell by 1.3%.
The Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), operating Puerto Vallarta’s airport, reported an 11.2% increase in domestic arrivals to the popular Pacific coast destination. Even though international arrivals decreased slightly by 0.6%, the overall growth remains robust.
In stark contrast, Cancún experienced a 4.2% decline in total passenger traffic in May. The Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR), managing Cancún’s airport, reported the weakest performance among the major airport operators, with a 3% overall decrease in passenger traffic.
Puerto Vallarta’s airport is undergoing a major expansion projected to increase passenger capacity by 130%. According to airport director Cryshtian Amador Lizardi, the project is 45% complete and includes:
- A new terminal
- Boarding areas
- Connection systems
The existing runway will remain in use. Between January and May 2025, Puerto Vallarta’s airport handled 3.4 million passengers, with domestic traffic increasing by 14.4%. The airport aims to reactivate routes and explore transatlantic destinations, especially with European countries.
On the other hand, the Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte (OMA), which operates airports in Mexico’s northern region, reported the strongest overall performance with a 6.9% increase in passenger traffic. Its hub in Monterrey experienced significant growth with a 16.1% increase in domestic flights and a 27% increase in international flights.
Industry analysts attribute the shifting travel patterns to international macroeconomic conditions and rising travel costs impacting traditional tourist destinations. For more details, you can refer to the source here.
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