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Los Cabos International Airport SJD Airport Traveler Guide

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SJD Airport Insights & Guide

Key SJD Airport Topics:

Getting to Know SJD Airport

Discover Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), the premier entry point to Mexico's Baja California Sur's breathtaking beaches and lively culture. Our concise guide simplifies your airport experience, offering essential tips and information. Notably, SJD stands out for its unique outdoor terminals, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty. Navigate effortlessly through flight updates, terminal info, parking, dining, and shopping with our guide. Enhance your airport visit at SJD and for more insights on global airports, explore our Comprehensive Airport Guide.

iFly Tip: Explore our Flying Info and Tips page for a collection of essential air travel resources.

SJD has one main terminal building with two levels. The terminal is divided into two sections: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has 16 gates and is used for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 has 22 gates and is used for international flights. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest use Terminal 2 for their flights.

When arriving at the airport, passengers will go through customs and immigration before entering the baggage claim area. After retrieving their luggage, passengers can proceed to the ground transportation area to find taxis, shuttles, and rental cars. The airport also offers a VIP lounge, duty-free shops, and a variety of restaurants and cafes for passengers to enjoy while waiting for their flights.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

SJD Airport has only one terminal building, which makes it very easy to navigate. Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily walk from one end of the terminal to the other in just a few minutes. There are no shuttle buses or trains needed to get between terminals because there is only one terminal building.

Tips from SJD Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Los Cabos International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SJD-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"When flying internationally through SJD, it's best to arrive at least 2 hours early. The customs and immigration lines can get quite long, especially during peak travel seasons. Terminal 2 is where you'll find most international flights." — Juan C., San José del Cabo, December 2023

"If you're traveling domestically, Terminal 1 is your go-to. It's a breeze to navigate, and the signage is clear, so you won't get lost. Plus, there are some great little cafes to grab a snack while waiting." — Maria V., Cabo San Lucas, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"For a budget-friendly ride to Cabo San Lucas, consider the public buses. They run frequently and are much cheaper than taxis. Just be prepared for a slightly longer journey." — Alejandro R., San José del Cabo, April 2024

"If you opt for a taxi, make sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey. It's a good practice to avoid any surprises when you reach your destination." — Carla M., San José del Cabo, June 2024

Parking

"The color-coded parking lots are a lifesaver. If you want to be closest to the terminal, aim for the blue lot. It's worth the extra few pesos for the convenience." — Diego L., Cabo San Lucas, January 2024

"For those picking up passengers, the cell-phone waiting area is great. You can wait for free up to 30 minutes, which is usually enough time for your friends or family to clear customs and collect their bags." — Isabella T., San José del Cabo, February 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss Baja Brewing Company if you have some time before your flight. Their craft beer selection is excellent, and the food is a nice change from typical airport fare." — Luis G., Cabo San Lucas, May 2024

"The duty-free shops in Terminal 2 offer a good selection of local products—perfect for last-minute gifts or souvenirs. Just remember to keep an eye on your boarding time!" — Sofia H., San José del Cabo, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check your flight status online or via your airline's app before heading to the airport. It can save you a lot of hassle if there are any last-minute changes." — Ricardo P., Cabo San Lucas, July 2024

"If you want to avoid stress, especially during busy times, consider using the VIP lounge. It's a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of the terminals." — Gabriela N., San José del Cabo, October 2024

iFly Tip: Travel comfortably with insights from our guide for overweight passengers.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Los Cabos Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas if they need to wait for their passengers.

The cell-phone waiting areas are located near the airport's entrance and are free to use for up to 30 minutes. Drivers can park their vehicles and wait until their passengers arrive before proceeding to the curbside for pick-up. This helps to alleviate congestion and ensures a smooth flow of traffic around the terminal buildings.

Parking Facilities & Options

SJD offers several parking options for travelers. There are both covered and uncovered parking lots located within walking distance of the terminals. The parking lots are color-coded for easy identification, with blue being the closest to the terminal and green being the furthest.

For those waiting to pick up passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located just outside the airport. This area provides a convenient place to wait for arriving passengers without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots, with designated spaces located near the entrances of the lots. There are also shuttle buses available to transport passengers with disabilities to and from the terminal.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can often be reserved in advance online.

Transportation Options

The airport provides a variety of transportation options for travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, featuring major providers such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and National. Travelers can easily rent a car and explore the beautiful city of Los Cabos at their own pace. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport with designated drop-off areas outside the terminal. The fare depends on the destination and the number of passengers. It is recommended to agree on the fare before starting the journey to avoid any misunderstandings.
  • Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services are a convenient option for budget-conscious travelers. The pickup area is located outside the terminal. There may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage, so it is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are a great option for travelers staying at hotels or resorts. The service is available 24/7, with pickup areas located outside the terminal. The fare depends on the destination and the number of passengers. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation is also available at the airport, with buses and vans providing service to various destinations. The pickup area is located outside the terminal, and the fare is affordable. However, it may not be the most convenient option for travelers with a lot of luggage. Buses run frequently, and tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or at designated kiosks.

iFly Tip: Discover how cockpit teams handle in-flight emergencies in our cockpit safety protocols section.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be a tiring process, but finding the right hotel near the airport can make your journey much smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you're catching an early flight, arriving late, or simply want to stay close to the airport during your visit, we've got you covered. Our selection of airport hotels includes everything from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury stays, all within close proximity to the airport. Many of these hotels offer amenities such as complimentary shuttle services, free WiFi, and round-the-clock front desk services, adding to the convenience of your stay. Some are also located near local attractions, making them ideal bases for exploring the city's natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Discover the best hotel options near the airport with our comprehensive guide. Click here to view all the options available.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. For a quick bite, head to Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts, both located in the main terminal. If you have more time, visit Baja Brewing Company for a local craft beer and delicious pub fare, or La Pausa for a sit-down meal featuring Mexican cuisine.

For shopping, there are several options to choose from. Pick up some souvenirs at the Los Cabos Market or browse through duty-free shops like Dufry and Ultrafemme. Need to grab some last-minute essentials? Head to the convenience store OXXO or the pharmacy Farmacia de Genericos.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Los Cabos International Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Los Cabos International Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the baggage claim area for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Los Cabos International Airport features a designated children's play area.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located on the first floor of the terminal.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Los Cabos Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status and stay informed about any changes or delays.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Simply find the display for your airline and flight number, and you'll be able to see the current status of your flight.

In addition to the FIDS, many airlines offer mobile phone apps that allow you to check your flight status and receive alerts about any changes or delays. These apps can send push notifications, text messages, or emails to keep you informed about your flight's status. Make sure to download your airline's app before your trip to take advantage of this helpful feature.

Finally, if you prefer to use a website to check your flight status, you can visit the airline's website or a third-party flight tracking website. These websites will provide up-to-date information on your flight's status, including any delays, cancellations, or gate changes.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at SJD by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is located in Baja California Sur, Mexico, serving the popular tourist destinations of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.
  • Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the SJD Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Los Cabos International Airport handles approximately 15,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 150 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SJD are Mexico City, Guadalajara, Tijuana, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Los Angeles.
  • Hub Status: Los Cabos International Airport is a hub for Volaris and Calafia Airlines.

Airport History

Los Cabos Airport, located in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, has a rich history dating back to the 1970s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1977 - The airport was officially opened to the public, with a single terminal and a 2,750 meter runway.
  • 1982 - The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the construction of a new terminal building and a longer runway.
  • 1990 - The airport saw a significant increase in passenger traffic, with over 1 million passengers passing through its gates.
  • 2003 - The airport underwent another major renovation, which included the addition of a second terminal building and an expansion of the runway.
  • 2014 - The airport was rebranded as SJD, to better reflect its international status and to attract more international travelers.
  • 2017 - The airport was severely damaged by Hurricane Odile, but was able to reopen just a few weeks later after extensive repairs and renovations.
  • 2020 - The airport saw a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but has since seen a gradual recovery.

Today, SJD Airport is a modern and efficient airport that serves millions of travelers each year, providing easy access to the beautiful beaches and resorts of Los Cabos.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Los Cabos International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: SJD
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +52 624 146 5111
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Los Cabos International Airport, Carretera Transpeninsular Km 43.5, 23420 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Los Cabos International Airport Q&A

The airport has one main terminal building divided into two sections: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights.
Travelers can pre-book a shuttle for a cost-effective and scenic ride to Cabo San Lucas. Taxis and car rentals are also available at the airport.
Yes, local buses provide a budget-friendly option to reach San José del Cabo, dropping you off in the heart of town.
The airport offers color-coded parking lots, with the blue lot being closest to the terminal. There are both covered and uncovered options available.
Dining options include Baja Brewing Company for craft beers, Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, and La Pausa for Mexican cuisine.
Yes, there is a cell-phone waiting area where drivers can park for free for up to 30 minutes while waiting for passengers.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated handicapped parking. It's advised to notify your airline in advance for any assistance.
Flight status can be checked via the Flight Information Display System throughout the terminal, airline mobile apps, or the airport's website for real-time updates.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport offering amenities such as complimentary shuttle services and free WiFi. These can be ideal for early flights or late arrivals.
The lost and found office is located in the baggage claim area. You can report and inquire about lost items there.