Background and Relevance of the Project
Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) has demonstrated its confidence in the International Airport of Puerto Vallarta by investing 920 million pesos in the construction of a second passenger terminal. This new terminal is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2027, with a current physical progress of 54%.
Omar Torres, the terminal’s director, expressed his optimism about the project: “In the dilemma of whether the chicken or the egg comes first, GAP places the egg. With this investment, we will generate a growth scenario for the entire region, ensuring investments in new hotels. Our bet is strong; we believe in the destination and its potential for expected growth with the government as an ally.”
Details of the New Terminal
The new terminal will feature eight new contact positions and four remote ones, bringing the total to 19 contact and 13 remote positions for both domestic and international flights. This expansion will cover a total area of 119,114 square meters, enhancing the travel experience for users with a capacity to accommodate six million passengers.
Currently, the airport operates 18 airlines, including Mexicana de Aviación, offering 52 routes during peak season (14 domestic, 22 connecting to the US, and 16 to Canada). Between January and July of last year, the airport served 4.3 million passengers (6.2 million in the previous year).
“With the new terminal, we will be able to double the number of passengers served and give a new boost to the region’s economic development, as it also benefits proximity to Nuevo Nayarit and Punta Mita (tourism destinations in neighboring Nayarit state),” said the airport’s director.
Upcoming Airline Additions
In November, the low-cost Canadian airline Porter will begin operations with three routes connecting Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton. Additionally, Southwest, another low-cost airline, will start a new route from San Diego, US, in the first quarter of next year.
Innovative Features and Sustainability
The new terminal will offer travelers a unique experience, starting with an outdoor green area before entering the terminal. This area will symbolize “the beginning of a new travel experience,” similar to the matatenas structures inside the airport.
The under-construction building is noted for its innovative, functional design and deep commitment to sustainable development. It incorporates cutting-edge solutions that minimize environmental impact, optimize resource use, and prioritize harmony with the natural surroundings. With international sustainability standards, the building will become a national reference in green airport infrastructure, marking a new era in regional air connectivity.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the investment amount for the new terminal? GAP has invested 920 million pesos in the construction of the second passenger terminal at Puerto Vallarta International Airport.
- When will the new terminal be operational? The new terminal is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2027.
- How many new contact and remote positions will the terminal have? The new terminal will feature eight new contact positions and four remote ones, totaling 19 contact and 13 remote positions for both domestic and international flights.
- What is the total area of the new terminal? The new terminal will cover a total area of 119,114 square meters.
- What are the upcoming airline additions at Puerto Vallarta International Airport? Porter, a low-cost Canadian airline, will start operations in November with three routes connecting Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton. Southwest, another low-cost airline, will launch a new route from San Diego, US, in the first quarter of next year.
- What sustainable features will the new terminal have? The new terminal will incorporate sustainable solutions such as rainwater capture and reuse, solar panels, and heat-reducing glass facades. These features will help achieve the LEED Oro certification, signifying high sustainability standards.
