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Tijuana Airport TIJ Airport Traveler Guide

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TIJ Airport Insights & Guide

Key TIJ Airport Topics:

Getting to Know TIJ Airport

Welcome to our online guide for Tijuana Airport, a bustling hub of air travel nestled in the vibrant city of Tijuana, Mexico. Known for its unique Cross Border Xpress (CBX) - an enclosed pedestrian bridge for passengers crossing the U.S./Mexico border, TIJ serves as a vital link between the two nations. This guide will help you navigate the airport's facilities, services, and amenities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. For those keen on exploring more about global airports, our explore global airports resource is a handy tool.

iFly Tip: Ensure your bags are airline-ready with advice from our baggage policy page.

TIJ has one terminal building with two levels, which is divided into two sections: the domestic and international areas. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, with 12 gates in the domestic area and 10 gates in the international area. Major airlines such as Aeromexico, Volaris, and Interjet operate from this airport.

Upon arrival, passengers can easily navigate the airport terminal by following the signs and directions provided. The domestic area is located on the first level, while the international area is on the second level. Passengers can access the boarding gates through the security checkpoints located in each area.

For those who need to transfer between domestic and international flights, there is a connecting corridor located on the second level of the terminal building. Passengers can use this corridor to access the other area without having to go through security again.

TIJ's terminal building is equipped with various facilities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. There are several restaurants, cafes, and shops available for passengers to grab a bite to eat or do some last-minute shopping before their flight. Additionally, the airport provides free Wi-Fi, ATMs, currency exchange services, and baggage storage facilities.

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

Connecting Between Terminals

At TIJ Airport, there is only one terminal building, so passengers do not need to worry about getting between terminals. The terminal building is divided into two levels, with arrivals on the lower level and departures on the upper level. The airport is relatively small, so walking between gates and facilities is easy and convenient.

Tips from TIJ Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Tijuana Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from TIJ-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 navigating TIJ, keep in mind that the domestic and international sections are on different levels. The signs are pretty clear, but if you ever feel lost, just look for the connecting corridor on the second level. It's a lifesaver if you're transferring between domestic and international flights!" — Carlos M., Rosarito, December 2023

"I always recommend using the interactive map available online before you arrive. It helps you know exactly where your gate is and what amenities are nearby, saving you time and stress." — Ana L., Tecate, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"If you're looking to save money, take the local buses into downtown Tijuana. They’re reliable and much cheaper than taxis or ride shares. Just make sure you have some pesos ready." — Javier G., Tijuana, January 2024

"For those crossing from the U.S., the Cross Border Xpress is incredibly convenient. It’s a quick and efficient way to get to the airport without the hassle of long border waits." — Maria R., Chula Vista, February 2024

Parking

"The on-site parking at TIJ is very convenient, especially if you’re in a rush. However, for longer trips, I suggest using off-airport parking lots. They offer shuttles that are quite reliable and can save you a bit of cash." — Luis T., Ensenada, April 2024

"If you're picking someone up, use the cell-phone waiting area. It’s free and keeps you from having to circle the airport or pay for parking." — Sofia P., San Ysidro, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"For a good meal, I recommend La Pausa before you go through security. It’s got great Mexican food, and it's a nice place to relax if you have some time before your flight." — Diego S., Tijuana, May 2024

"If you need some last-minute shopping, head to Mexico Lindo for duty-free items. It’s a great spot to pick up gifts or souvenirs." — Elena H., Playas de Rosarito, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the flight status on the airport's website or your airline’s app before heading out. It’s better to know about any delays or gate changes in advance." — Ricardo C., Otay Mesa, August 2024

"Arrive early, especially if you're crossing the border. The Cross Border Xpress can be quick, but unexpected delays do happen, so give yourself extra time." — Gabriela F., Imperial Beach, September 2024

iFly Tip: Don't make these common mistakes at airport security checkpoints.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At TIJ 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 allowed to wait for up to 10 minutes while picking up or dropping off passengers. If more time is needed, drivers must park in the designated parking areas.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport provides cell-phone waiting areas. These areas are free of charge and allow drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and collected their luggage. Once the passengers are ready, drivers can proceed to the curbside for pick-up. It is important to note that vehicles cannot be left unattended in the cell-phone waiting areas.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're planning to park your car at Tijuana Airport, there are several options available to suit your needs. The airport offers both covered and uncovered parking in its on-site lots and garages. The parking facilities are conveniently located near the airport terminals, making it easy for travelers to access them.

In addition to the on-site parking, Tijuana Airport also has a cell phone waiting area for those who are picking up passengers. This area allows drivers to wait for their passengers to arrive without having to circle the airport or pay for parking.

For those who require handicapped parking, TIJ offers designated spaces in all of its parking facilities. These spaces are located near the airport terminals and are clearly marked for easy identification.

If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is also available near TIJ Airport. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Tijuana Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Car Rental: One of the most popular options is car rental, with several major providers located on-site. These include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore the city at their own pace.
  • Taxi Service: Taxi services can be found at designated drop-off areas outside of the airport terminals. Fares are typically based on distance traveled, and visitors should be aware that prices may be higher during peak travel times.
  • Ride Share Services: For those looking to save money, shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available. These services have designated pickup areas outside of the airport terminals and offer a more affordable option for travelers. However, it is important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are also available for those who prefer a more convenient option. These shuttles typically operate on a fixed schedule and can be found at designated pickup areas outside of the airport terminals. Fares vary depending on the shuttle provider and destination.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation options such as buses and trains are available for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. The airport is conveniently located near several bus and train stations, making it easy to travel to and from the airport.

iFly Tip: Find out how airline hubs maximize flight route efficiency and connectivity.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be a hectic experience, especially when you have to worry about finding a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport. We aim to help you find the best hotel options that promise comfort, convenience, and a range of amenities to suit your needs. Whether you're in town for a business trip, a shopping spree, or just passing through, we've got you covered. From luxurious 4-star hotels to budget-friendly motels, we have compiled a list of accommodations situated within close proximity to the airport. So, whether you're looking for a hotel with a fitness center, free parking, a shared lounge, or an in-house restaurant, you'll find it here. Enjoy your stay and view all TIJ Hotels here.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

the airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, head to Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts, both located in the main terminal. For a sit-down meal, try out the popular restaurant La Pausa, which serves Mexican cuisine and is located in the pre-security area of the terminal. Another great option is the restaurant Bambuza, which offers Vietnamese cuisine and is located in the post-security area of the terminal.

When it comes to shopping, Tijuana Airport has a range of options. For duty-free shopping, head to Dufry or Mexico Lindo, both located in the post-security area of the terminal. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the store Artesanias de Mexico, located in the pre-security area of the terminal. And if you need any travel essentials, there's a convenience store called Oxxo located in the main terminal.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Tijuana Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and newsstands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

Tijuana Airport is a modern airport that offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience comfortable and hassle-free. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airport has everything you need to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

If you need to stay connected during your trip, the airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Simply connect to the network and start browsing the web or checking your emails.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport has a lost and found department to help you retrieve your belongings. You can contact the department directly or visit their office located in the terminal.

If you are traveling with children, the airport has designated children's areas where your little ones can play and burn off some energy before your flight. These areas are equipped with toys, games, and other activities to keep children entertained.

If you require special assistance or have specific needs, the airport offers a range of services to cater to your needs. These services include wheelchair assistance, special boarding arrangements, and medical assistance if required.

If you need to access banking services, the airport has several ATMs and banking facilities located throughout the terminal. You can withdraw cash, exchange currency, or access other banking services as required.

If you require medical assistance during your travels, the airport has a medical center located in the terminal. The center is staffed by medical professionals who can provide basic medical care and assistance if required.

Flight Status Info

As a passenger, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to do so at TIJ. One of the easiest ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

In addition to the FIDS, many airlines offer mobile phone apps that can alert passengers about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. These apps can send notifications via text, email, or push notifications, making it easy for passengers to stay up-to-date on their flight status.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at TIJ Airport 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: Tijuana Airport (TIJ) is located in Tijuana, Mexico.
  • Terminal: The airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Aeromexico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus. For a list of all airlines, check out the TIJ Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Tijuana Airport handles an average of 9 million passengers per year.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees an average of 50 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from TIJ are Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, Cancun, and Los Angeles.
  • Hub Status: Tijuana Airport is a hub for Volaris and Aeromexico Connect.

Airport History

TIJ, also known as General Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport, is located in Tijuana, Mexico. The airport has a rich history, with several significant events shaping its development over the years. Here is a chronological list of some of the most notable events:

  • 1951: TIJ Airport is officially opened for commercial flights.
  • 1956: The airport's runway is extended to accommodate larger aircraft.
  • 1960: The airport's terminal building is expanded to handle increasing passenger traffic.
  • 1982: the airport becomes an international airport, with flights to the United States and other countries.
  • 2007: A new terminal building is opened, increasing the airport's capacity to handle up to 10 million passengers per year.
  • 2015: A new cross-border terminal is opened, allowing passengers to easily cross the border between Tijuana and San Diego, California.
  • 2019: Tijuana Airport is named the second busiest airport in Mexico, with over 9 million passengers passing through its gates.

Today, Tijuana Airport continues to serve as an important transportation hub for travelers visiting Mexico and the United States.

Airport Contact Information

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

  • IATA Code: TIJ
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +52 664 607 8200
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Tijuana International Airport, Carretera Aeropuerto S/N, Col. Nueva Tijuana, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, CP 22435

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

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Tijuana Airport Q&A

The Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is an enclosed pedestrian bridge that connects the U.S. side of the border directly to the Tijuana Airport terminal. It allows passengers to cross the border efficiently and directly into the airport, making it a convenient option for those traveling from the San Diego area.
The domestic and international sections are on different levels of the terminal. Use the connecting corridor on the second level to transfer between these areas without having to go through security again.
Yes, local buses provide a reliable and budget-friendly option for getting to downtown Tijuana from the airport.
TIJ offers both covered and uncovered parking in on-site lots and garages. For longer stays, off-site parking options are available, which are more economical and offer shuttle services to the terminal.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected during your time at the airport.
La Pausa is a recommended restaurant for authentic Mexican cuisine, located in the pre-security area of the terminal.
Major car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz have on-site locations at the airport, providing convenient car rental services.
There are various hotel options near the airport, ranging from luxurious 4-star hotels to budget-friendly motels, providing comfort and convenience for travelers.
Flight status can be checked via the in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time updates.
Vehicles can wait for up to 10 minutes at the curbside for pick-up or drop-off. For longer waits, use the free cell-phone waiting area until your passengers are ready to be picked up.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport