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Direct Flights to Tulum

Everything you need to know about flying direct to Tulum

Tulum Beach, Mexico

Book direct flights to Tulum

Skip the long drive from Cancun and fly straight into paradise! Tulum's new international airport makes reaching Mexico's most Instagram-worthy destination easier than ever.

Book your direct flight to Tulum at Alternative Airlines with flexible payment options and pay later with Afterpay, Kueski Pay, Klarna or one of our 40+ payment methods.


Can you fly direct to Tulum? 🤔

Yes, you can now fly direct to Tulum International Airport (TQO). The airport opened in December 2023, with international flights launching in March 2024. This means no more two-hour drives from Cancun - you're just 40 minutes from those famous clifftop ruins and turquoise cenotes.

The airport currently serves flights from major US cities, Canada and Mexico, with airlines like Delta, American, United and Aeroméxico operating direct routes. While some carriers have scaled back their initial ambitious plans, there are still solid options for getting there without the hassle of connections.

A plane taking off with tropical trees below it

Which airlines fly to Tulum?

Several airlines now serve Tulum International Airport, though the network is still growing. Here's who's flying there:


US airlines ✈️

  • American Airlines - Take the fast track to Tulum with daily flights from Miami and two daily departures from Dallas-Fort Worth. Ideal for both quick weekend escapes and longer Riviera Maya stays.
  • Delta Air Lines - Jet off from Atlanta with daily year-round flights, making it one of the most reliable routes to Tulum from the Southeast.
  • United Airlines - Fly out of Houston with growing service to Tulum. Flights are currently daily, with plans to ramp up frequency as demand rises.
  • JetBlue - Fly direct from New York JFK during the winter season (October–April), perfect for swapping snow for sun when you need it most.

Canadian airlines ✈️

  • Air Canada - Serving Toronto and Montreal year-round, with added seasonal routes from Quebec City and Ottawa when the snowbirds head south.
  • WestJet - Fly from Toronto or enjoy weekly seasonal service from Calgary, great for Western Canadians heading to the coast.
  • Air Transat - Seasonal non-stop flights from Montreal and Quebec City make Tulum an easy beach break when winter hits.
Aeromexico plane

Mexican airlines ✈️

  • Aeroméxico - Quick and frequent connections from Mexico City, with easy onward travel for both locals and international arrivals.
  • VivaAerobus - Low-cost flights from cities across Mexico, including Guadalajara, Monterrey and Tijuana - ideal for domestic travellers looking for a beach break without the price tag.
  • Volaris - Covering major domestic routes to Tulum, with plenty of budget-friendly options for spontaneous getaways.
  • Mexicana - Relaunched with regular flights from Mexico City, offering another easy way to reach the coast.

International carriers ✈️

  • Copa Airlines - Connect through Panama City to reach Tulum from across Central and South America - great if you're combining destinations.
  • Volaris Costa Rica - Direct flights from San José offer a straight shot to Tulum for travellers heading north from Costa Rica.

💡Top tip: Keep in mind that some routes are seasonal, typically running October through April when northern travellers escape the cold!

Cities with direct flights to Tulum

The network continues to evolve as airlines adjust to demand, so it's worth checking current availability when planning your trip. Here are the current direct routes to Tulum International Airport:

Country

City

Airlines

Flight Frequency

United States

AtlantaDelta Air LinesDaily, year-round
Dallas-Fort WorthAmerican AirlinesTwice daily
HoustonUnited AirlinesDaily, increasing to twice daily
MiamiAmerican AirlinesDaily
New York JFKJetBlueSeasonal (October–April)

Canada

TorontoAir Canada, WestJetSeasonal
MontrealAir Canada, Air Transat, WestJetSeasonal
CalgaryWestJetWeekly winter service
Quebec CityAir TransatSeasonal
OttawaAir CanadaSeasonal

Mexico

Mexico CityAeroméxico, Mexicana, VivaAerobusMultiple daily flights
GuadalajaraVolarisRegular domestic service
MonterreyVivaAerobusRegular domestic service
TijuanaVivaAerobusRegular domestic service

International

Panama City, PanamaCopa AirlinesRegular international connection
San José, Costa RicaVolaris Costa RicaRegular international service
Tulum Beach, Mexico

Tulum flight schedules and frequency

Flight frequency varies by route and season. Here's what to expect:

  • Year-round routes typically offer daily service, including the major US hubs and Mexico City connections. These routes have proven most stable since the airport opened.
  • Seasonal routes operate primarily during winter months (October-April) when demand peaks. All Canadian routes fall into this category, aligning with snowbird travel patterns.
  • Peak season (December-April) sees maximum flight frequency, while summer months may have reduced schedules on some routes. Mexico City remains the busiest route to Tulum with over 120 monthly flights, while major US cities average 25-50 monthly flights each.
  • Weekend flights often fill up faster, especially during peak season, so booking in advance helps secure your preferred travel dates.
Search and book direct flights to Tulum with Alternative Airlines

How to find and book direct flights to Tulum

Search with Alternative Airlines 🔎

Start with flexible dates to find the best deals. Tulum flights can vary significantly in price depending on your travel dates, so being flexible helps. You can use our search filters to show only direct flights to TQO.


Book early for peak season 📅

For winter travel (December-April), book 3-4 months ahead. Holiday periods need even more advance planning - aim for 6-10 months for Christmas and New Year trips.


Booking tips 💡

  • Tuesday and Wednesday departures often cost less than weekend flights
  • Avoid US school holiday periods for better prices
  • Consider shoulder season (May or November) for weather-value balance
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Flexible ways to pay

Pay later for direct flights to Tulum 💸

Here's where Alternative Airlines makes a difference. While other booking sites might leave you scrambling to pay upfront, we offer over 40 ways to pay, including Buy Now Pay Later. Some of our most popular pay-later options include:

Other payment methods 🤑

This flexibility means you can book that last-minute Tulum getaway even if payday isn't until next week.

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A view of Cancun from a plane window

Alternative airports near Tulum

Cancun International Airport (CUN) 🛬

The established option with hundreds of daily flights and competitive prices. The downside? A 1.5-2 hour drive to Tulum depending on traffic. Transport options include buses (around $22), shared shuttles ($37 per person), or private transfers ($60-200).

Choose Cancun when you want maximum flight options, competitive pricing or are visiting multiple Riviera Maya destinations.


Cozumel International Airport (CZM) 🛬

A smaller option requiring a ferry connection. You'll fly into Cozumel, take a shuttle to the ferry terminal, cross to Playa del Carmen (45 minutes), then drive to Tulum (30-45 minutes). Total journey time: 3-4 hours.

Choose Cozumel if you plan to spend time on the island or enjoy scenic ferry rides, but expect more complex logistics.

💬 Our recommendation: If you find direct flights to Tulum at reasonable prices, book them. The 40-minute transfer beats the alternatives hands down.

Windy palm trees and deck chairs in Tulum, Mexico

Best time to book and travel to Tulum

Tulum enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures between 77°F and 86°F (25°C to 30°C) year-round. It has two distinct seasons that significantly impact your travel experience.


Dry season (November-April) ☀️

This is when Tulum shines. You'll get mostly sunny days with minimal rainfall, lower humidity and pleasant sea breezes. Temperatures stay comfortable, and you can count on clear skies for beach days and ruins exploration. The trade-off? Higher prices and bigger crowds, especially during peak months.


Wet season (May-October) ⛈️

Higher humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the possibility of hurricanes. While temperatures stay warm, the rain can disrupt outdoor activities. However, the rain often comes in short bursts, and you'll find better deals on everything from flights to hotels.

A turtle in the sea in Tulum, Mexico

Season-by-season breakdown

Peak season (December-April) 🔥

Perfect weather with minimal rain and comfortable temperatures. December through February sees the most pleasant conditions but also the highest prices and biggest crowds. March and April heat up but remain dry. Book 4-10 months ahead for holiday periods.


Shoulder season (May, November) ☀️

Your sweet spot for weather-value balance. May marks the start of the wet season but temperatures remain manageable with occasional rain. November ends the hurricane season with post-rainy conditions and reasonable prices before peak season kicks in.


Summer (June-August) 🌦️

Hot and humid with short afternoon showers that rarely last more than an hour. Despite the heat, this period offers excellent value for budget travellers. Plus, it's turtle nesting season (May-October) when you can witness sea turtles laying eggs on the beaches.


Low season (September-October) ⛈️

Maximum savings with up to 50% off peak prices, but this coincides with hurricane season peak. Weather can be unpredictable and some beachfront venues may close for maintenance. Travel insurance becomes essential here.

Ready to book direct flights to Tulum?

Skip the airport transfers and land closer to the beach. With flexible ways to pay, over 600 airlines to choose from and instant booking confirmation, we make it easy to lock in your Tulum trip now and pay later.

FAQs

Got questions before you book? You’re not alone!
Here are the answers to the things most travellers want to know about flying direct to Tulum. From flight options to payment flexibility, we’ve covered it.

Do I need a visa to fly to Tulum?

It depends on your nationality. US, Canadian, UK and EU passport holders can visit Mexico without a visa for up to 180 days. Just ensure your passport is valid for the length of your stay. You'll receive a tourist card on arrival. Other nationalities should check current Mexico entry requirements before traveling.

Are there direct flights to Tulum?

Yes, you can now fly direct to Tulum International Airport (TQO) from several cities across the US, Canada, Mexico and Central America.

  • Airlines like American, Delta, United and JetBlue offer nonstop routes from major hubs including Miami, Dallas, Atlanta and New York (seasonal).
  • Canadian and Mexican carriers also serve the airport with both year-round and seasonal flights.

Routes continue to grow as demand rises, so it's always worth checking what's available, especially during peak season (October-April).

Booking a direct flight means skipping the long transfer from Cancun and arriving closer to Tulum’s beaches, ruins and cenotes.

Are there direct flights to Tulum from Europe?

No - there are currently no direct flights to Tulum from Europe. Discover Airlines briefly operated Frankfurt flights but cancelled the route due to operational challenges.

Most European travellers connect through major US hubs like Atlanta, Miami or Dallas-Fort Worth. These connections often work out fine schedule-wise and sometimes offer great value!

Are there direct flights from Los Angeles to Tulum?

Not currently. United briefly operated this route but cancelled it due to demand challenges.

Most West Coast travellers connect through Dallas, Houston or Mexico City. These connections typically add 2-4 hours to your journey but often provide better schedule flexibility than the limited direct options.

Do any budget airlines fly direct to Tulum?

Yes. VivaAerobus and Volaris offer low-cost domestic Mexican routes, while JetBlue operates seasonal direct flights from New York.

Just remember that budget fares often exclude extras like checked bags and seat selection, so factor in these potential add-ons when comparing prices.

What if my preferred airline doesn't fly direct to Tulum?

We ticket over 600 airlines worldwide, so we'll show you the best connecting flights if no direct option exists. Sometimes a quick connection through Mexico City or a US hub works out cheaper than direct flights anyway. Our filters help you find the best balance of price, timing and convenience.

Can I fly with surfboards or extra luggage into Tulum?

Yes, but policies vary by airline. Some include sports equipment in standard baggage allowances, while others charge additional fees. We show all baggage policies upfront when you book, so you'll know exactly what's included and what costs extra before you pay.

What happens if my flight to Tulum gets delayed or cancelled?

If you booked with us, our Customer Service team will help you find alternative options quickly. We can't control airline decisions, but we make rebooking easier. If you added flight protection during booking, you could be covered for delays, cancellations and missed connections that aren't your fault.

What is Tulum airport's code?

TQO (IATA code). The official name is Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, located about 20 kilometres southwest of Tulum town. When searching for flights, always use TQO to ensure you're booking the right airport and not accidentally selecting Cancun or Cozumel.

How far is the airport from Tulum?

About 20 kilometres (12 miles) southwest of Tulum town, roughly a 40-minute drive depending on traffic. Transport options include taxis ($37-50), buses (around $11 plus local transport), or private transfers ($50-100). The drive is straightforward with decent roads, making it much easier than the 2+ hour journey from Cancun.

Can I get transport from Tulum airport into town easily?

Yes. Taxis, shuttles and private transfers wait outside arrivals. The 40-minute ride to Tulum town costs $25-60 depending on your choice. Buses offer the cheapest option around $11, while private transfers provide door-to-door convenience. Book transfers in advance for guaranteed availability during peak season.

Is the airport fully operational?

Yes, TQO has been handling domestic and international flights since early 2024. Essential services like customs, immigration and baggage claim work smoothly. Some amenities remain limited compared to major airports, but the core infrastructure operates normally with generally faster processing times than busier airports.

Is Tulum airport better than flying into Cancun?

For most travellers, yes. It cuts the journey from 2+ hours to 40 minutes and eliminates the stress of long transfers. If direct flights to Tulum fit your budget and schedule, it's the easier option every time. However, Cancun still offers more flight choices and competitive pricing.

How early should I arrive at Tulum airport for my flight?

Allow 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international departures. As a newer airport, TQO is still optimising operations, so arriving early prevents stress. The smaller terminal means faster processing once you're through security, but better safe than sorry with a new facility.

Is Wi-Fi available at Tulum airport?

Basic Wi-Fi is available throughout most of the terminal. It works fine for checking flight information, messaging or light browsing, but don't expect blazing speeds. Download entertainment or work materials before arriving if you need reliable internet access while waiting for your flight.

Should I book directly with the airline or through Alternative Airlines?

Book with Alternative Airlines! Booking with us gives you payment flexibility unavailable directly through airlines, plus our dedicated customer support team helps when things go wrong.

We also show transparent pricing with all taxes included upfront, and our 40+ payment options make travel more accessible than traditional booking methods.

Can I pay later for my Tulum flight?

Absolutely! We offer over 40 payment options including Kueski Pay, Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm and PayPal Credit. Split your flight cost over 1-12 months without needing a credit card for some options. This flexibility means you can book that last-minute Tulum trip even if payday isn't until next week!

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Written by Alternative Airlines

Last updated: 21 August 2025

At Alternative Airlines, we believe booking flights to Tulum should be simple and frustration-free. That’s why we combine smart tech, flexible ways to pay and a Customer Service team that actually cares.

We know a trip to Tulum isn’t just about the destination. It could be a long-awaited holiday, a wellness retreat, a reunion or something that came up last minute.

That’s why we put guides like this together, so you get clear, honest info to help you plan with confidence. We’ll handle the flight details, so you can get back to counting down to beach time.