Airlines from around the world bring eager visitors to the Mexican Caribbean

Cancún is Mexico's tourism capital, making the city's Aeropuerto Internacional Cancún the major international gateway in the country. Air travel offers a fast and convenient way to get to the popular Mexican Caribbean. Cancún, however, is just one of approximately 30 cities throughout Mexico receiving direct flights from North America. Five international airports and several national airports are located in and around the Mexican Caribbean.

Airports

Three of the five International Airports are used for incoming flights from the United States, Canada, and Europe, Aeropuerto Internacional Cancún (CUN), Cozumel Airport (CZM), and Licenciado Manuel Crecencio Rejon International Airport (MID). These are located in Cancún, Cozumel, and Merida, respectively. The other two international airports are Campeche Ingenerio Alberto Acuna Ongay International Airport (CPE) and Chetumal Airport (CTM).

Inside the country, travelers can also fly to Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Chichen Itza, Isla Holbox, and Majahual airports. These are exclusively for domestic flights. However, travelers may fly in to an international airport, then travel across the country to these smaller airports.

Rates

Round trip tickets are where travelers find the best ticket prices. Booking well in advance can cut cost, but last minute deals can also lower the price if your plans are flexible. Off-peak flight times also save travelers money, since mid-week and off-season flights are cheaper than those at more popular times. Sometimes travel to a particular airport can even be significantly more (or less) expensive than travel to another airport nearby.

Most flights from the United States are nonstop to Cancún, and direct flights typically connect in San Juan or St. Thomas. Traveler's Tip: While nonstop flights don't stop, direct flights will stop at least once along the way. Travelers looking to cross the country in planes will be able to tell the popularity of the flight by the price of the ticket. Lower-priced tickets are often on the most popular routes, and are special deals offered.

When leaving Mexico, make sure to have cash for your departure tax unless it is included in your ticket. This can range from $18(USD) to $25(USD) depending on the location. Authorities may require you pay the tax with pesos. It's best to check ahead of time because cash is the only accepted form of payment.

Airlines

Once you're in Mexico, you can cross the country or island-hop on one of the many small local airlines. Reliable service is offered on the following airlines, all of which have regularly scheduled flights to Cancún:

Travelers unfamiliar with the reputation of a particular airline may consult the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA ranks carriers based on safety, service and performance. Contact the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave., SW; Washington D.C., 20591 or via the Internet at http://www.faa.gov. You can also phone the FAA regarding specific issues:

Airport Security

Recent terrorist activity has caused many airports, especially those in the U.S., to tighten their security measures. Now additional procedures, added to the regular baggage checks, screen both passengers and luggage. These checkpoints are staffed by security officers who are available to personally search travelers who trigger alarms as they pass through.

Random passenger inspections are also becoming part of the routine at many airports. These additional security stops mean travelers should plan to arrive at least one hour before a domestic flight, and two hours before international flights - earlier at particularly busy airports.

More recent regulations for carry-on luggage do not permit items such as metal scissors and razors to be carried onboard the plane. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a full list of items at their website, www.tsa.gov/public/index.jsp, or call 866-289-9673 in the United States.

Making a note of these standards for carry-on luggage and personal effects will help travelers to reach their plane in a timely manner:

• The carry-on limit per passenger is one carry-on bag plus one private item such as a briefcase, laptop case, or purse. A laptop case will not be considered a personal item unless it contains a laptop.

• If you plan to bring food or beverages with you, pack them in your carry-on bag as opposed to your checked luggage because some food items may activate the bomb-detection machines.

• Do not take any wrapped presents with you. If the package sets off a detector, security officials will be forced to unwrap, and possibly damage, the present.

• Do not wear metal objects such as steel-toed boots, heavy jewelry, or bulky belt buckles as these items could set off the checkpoint detectors.

• If you have any metal surgical implants, bring a note from your doctor to avoid a long meeting with an airport official.

• Bring and keep handy your government-issued photo ID, this is required for security clearance. Children under the age of 18 are not required to carry a photo ID for domestic flights; however, the adult accompanying or checking in with them must present one.

• Remember that you will only be allowed to pass through security with a ticket for travel (non-ticketed persons can only pass through if accompanying a child, elderly or disabled person). An official confirmation page for an e-ticket will suffice. Make sure you have your ticket or e-ticket confirmation page, and your ID before you get to the airport.

• Confirm your flight before heading to the airport.

Travelers visiting Cancún will find flights a quick and easy option when trying to reach this vacation paradise.

Related Articles

Cruise Options for Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean

If you believe that travel should always be fun, a cruise to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean may be perfect for you.

Booking It to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean

There are a number of ways to book your trip to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean. Be sure to find out about all of your choices before you make your decision.

Passports and Paperwork

Customs Considerations for Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean

More Articles About Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean

A Historical Overview of Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean

Familiarizing yourself with the history of Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean will help to enhance your vacation experience.

Learn About All Inclusive Options in Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean

Info on Rental Properties in Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean