The Riviera Nayarit International Airport, previously known as Tepic’s airport, recently welcomed its first test flight from the U.S, marking a pivotal moment in its journey to becoming a gateway to the Riviera Nayarit. This test flight signifies the airport’s preparedness to introduce a second terminal by the end of the year, catering to flights from the U.S. and Canada. According to Alejandro Munoz de Cote Ortiz, the airport is now equipped for international operations, emphasizing the significance of this expansion in unlocking the untapped tourism potential of the region.
With the introduction of the Riviera Nayarit International Airport, travelers from North America will have more convenient access to the northern coast of the state of Nayarit and its scenic mountains. While Puerto Vallarta has been the primary entry point for visitors to Nayarit’s coastline, the new airport in Tepic offers a shorter drive time to destinations like Punta Mita, making it an attractive option for travelers. Moreover, the airport’s proximity to lesser-explored areas such as Magical Towns, coffee plantations, and indigenous communities presents new opportunities for immersive experiences.
The airport’s strategic location is further enhanced by its connection to the newly constructed Guadalajara-Puerto Vallarta highway, facilitating seamless travel across Nayarit. Additional efforts are underway to establish a highway linking Tepic to the Magical Town of Compostela, which will improve accessibility to popular destinations like Sayulita, San Pancho, Lo de Marcos, Rincon de Guayabitos, Chacala, and San Blas. These infrastructure improvements aim to elevate the overall travel experience for tourists and promote exploration of diverse locales within Nayarit.
One of the distinguishing features of the Riviera Nayarit International Airport is its digital immigration process, designed to streamline arrivals and optimize travelers’ time. While discussions are ongoing regarding the implementation of pre-clearance with U.S. authorities, the airport is focused on enhancing operational efficiency and passenger experience. Anticipating significant growth, the airport is projected to accommodate 4 million tourists within the initial five years of its new terminal’s operation, with a capacity to serve up to 20 million passengers annually. As the airport progresses towards full functionality by the first trimester of 2025, collaborations with airlines from the U.S. and Canada are being cultivated to establish year-round international service.
With the recent completion of a new runway and a 42-meter control tower, the Riviera Nayarit International Airport stands out as a symbol of modern aviation infrastructure in Mexico, boasting the third tallest control tower in the country. Negotiations with airlines across North America, including a confirmed flight with Volaris from Los Angeles, underscore the airport’s commitment to expanding its network and fostering connectivity. As the terminal prepares for a new era of international operations, the Riviera Nayarit International Airport is poised to elevate the travel experience for visitors and catalyze tourism growth in the region.
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