New Destination | United debuts direct flights from Houston to Tulum, Mexico on March 31

A new airport in Tulum, Mexico opened to domestic carriers in December 2023. International flights, including service offered between Houston and the popular Mexican hotspot by United Airlines, begin March 31.

March 27, 2024

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Forget flying to Cancun in Quintana Roo, Mexico only to commute at least two hours - or more than 80 miles - to reach the sandy shores of Tulum. A new airport just south of Tulum, a boho-chic beach hotspot, is now open! Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO), also known as Tulum International Airport officially opened December 1, 2023. TQO exclusively received domestic flights from carriers Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus for the first few months.

International flights began in March 2024. United will offer 22 weekly nonstop flights from Newark/New York, Houston and Chicago beginning March 31, 2024.

Mexico continues to be a leading leisure destination and Tulum has quickly emerged as one of Mexico's most popular destinations for American travelers. The airport is ready to welcome more than 5 million passengers annually and is about 20 miles south of Tulum, a popular beachside escape known for its Mayan ruins. The new Tulum International Airport will give United customers more direct access to the city and more opportunities to travel to the ever-popular Riviera Maya region, complementing United's existing services to Cancun and Cozumel.

"Tulum is at the top of many travel lists – great beaches and restaurants, and a region featuring a rich history and spectacular natural beauty," said Patrick Quayle, United's senior vice president of Network Planning and Alliances. "Our new direct flights help people get there faster than ever, giving them even more time to enjoy one of Mexico's most unique destinations."

United also grew its network in the broader Latin America and Caribbean region by 25% during winter 2023 and will remain the largest U.S. airline to Central America.