Oaxaca International Airport (IATA: OAX – ICAO: MMOX), officially known as Xoxocotlán International Airport, serves the city of Oaxaca de Juárez and the surrounding region in southern Mexico. Located approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) south of downtown Oaxaca, the airport connects travelers to cultural landmarks, culinary destinations, and colonial-era architecture.

The airport handles domestic and limited international flights and is a hub for tourists visiting Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, and other nearby attractions.

Many travelers find Oaxaca Airport convenient because it is smaller and more straightforward to navigate than bigger airports in Mexico. The airport provides basic services to help guests have a smooth start or end to their trip, including transportation, shopping, and places to eat. Understanding how Oaxaca Airport connects visitors to the city makes vacation planning much easier for anyone planning a trip to Oaxaca.

Essential Information

Oaxaca Airport in Mexico provides travelers a convenient entry point to Oaxaca City and nearby destinations. Its terminal offers key amenities, good transport links, and helpful services for both domestic and international visitors.

Location and Accessibility

Oaxaca Airport, also known as Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), is located about 6 miles (9.2 kilometers) south of downtown Oaxaca City. By road, you can reach the heart of the city in less than 30 minutes.

Transportation options are straightforward. Visitors can choose between licensed taxis, private shuttles, or rental cars waiting outside the arrivals area. Local highways are marked, and drivers report smooth connections from the airport to city hotels, tourist spots, and outlying regions of the country.

Travelers also benefit from updated infrastructure. Well-maintained roads and clear signage make both arrival and departure less stressful. Location details, including maps and directions, can be found on the official Oaxaca Airport website.

Terminal Facilities

Oaxaca Airport features a single, modern terminal building designed for both domestic and international flights. The layout is simple, with concise signage in Spanish and English for easy navigation.

Within the terminal, travelers will find:

  • Restaurants and coffee shops for quick meals or snacks
  • Shops selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products
  • ATMs and currency exchange counters for easy access to pesos
  • Free public Wi-Fi in most waiting areas

Seating is available in both pre- and post-security zones. Bathrooms are clean and located throughout the terminal. The departures area includes dedicated airline check-in counters, with lines that typically move quickly.

Airport Services

Essential services help ensure a smooth journey for all travelers. The airport is open daily, with extended hours for flights arriving from other parts of Mexico and selected international destinations.

These services include:

  • Customer service desks staffed by bilingual agents
  • Car rental desks from international and local companies
  • The lost and found office is near the main entrance
  • Accessible facilities for travelers with limited mobility

Taxi and shuttle counters make it simple to arrange ground transportation on arrival. Information screens show real-time flight updates.

Flights and Airlines

Oaxaca Airport is served by several major airlines and connects passengers to destinations within Mexico and the United States. Flights include both domestic routes to popular Mexican cities and nonstop international service.

Domestic Flights and Destinations

Oaxaca Airport offers direct flights to several Mexican cities. Passengers from this airport can fly to Mexico City, Monterrey, Tijuana, Guadalajara, and Cancún.

Most flights to and from Oaxaca are domestic, making travel within Mexico efficient and straightforward. The airport is a key hub for locals and visitors looking to explore different regions of the country.

Scheduled flights operate multiple times daily between Oaxaca and major Mexican cities, supported by airlines like AeroMéxico, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris. For a complete list of destinations and schedules, check the flights page for Oaxaca Airport.

International Flight Options

Oaxaca Airport offers international flights, with the main destinations being cities in the United States. Nonstop service is available in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston.

American Airlines and United Airlines operate these routes. Flying internationally from Oaxaca is convenient, with customs and immigration facilities on-site.

Most international flights are direct and do not require a layover in Mexico City. For more details on international flights and ticket options, visit the Oaxaca Airport airlines listing.

Major Airlines

Major airlines operating at Oaxaca Airport include AeroMéxico, American Airlines, United Airlines, Volaris, VivaAerobus, and TAG Airlines. These carriers provide both domestic and international flights.

AeroMéxico and Volaris connect Oaxaca to large cities within Mexico. American Airlines and United Airlines offer service to the United States.

Flight options and schedules may change seasonally. For the latest information on which carriers fly to Oaxaca, review the list of airlines serving Oaxaca Airport.

Connections to Mexico City and Acapulco

Connections to Mexico City from Oaxaca Airport are frequent and reliable. AeroMéxico, Volaris, and VivaAerobus operate several daily flights linking Oaxaca to Mexico’s capital.

Acapulco can be reached via short flights or by connecting through Mexico City. While direct flights to Acapulco are limited, the route remains popular, especially during peak travel seasons.

Travelers can compare different airlines and flight times to plan the best connection. Visit Expedia’s Oaxaca Airport flights page to see current route availability.

Ground Transportation and Rentals

Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) provides several options for reaching your destination. Travelers can choose from rental cars, public transport, taxis, and shuttles for their trip into Oaxaca City or other regions.

Rental Car Companies

There are several rental car companies at Oaxaca Airport, making it convenient for visitors who want flexibility for exploring. Well-known brands like Enterprise and local agencies have service counters near the arrivals area. Renting a car is a good choice for those planning to visit outlying villages or coastal spots at their own pace.

Vehicles come in different sizes, from compact cars to larger vans, fitting solo travelers and families. Daily rental rates vary, but travelers can expect to find clean and well-maintained vehicles. Most rental offices allow online reservations, making the process smoother for arriving passengers. Rental companies at OAX usually require a valid driver’s license and credit card and may ask for proof of insurance.

Public Transportation Options

Public transport is available right outside Oaxaca Airport for those looking to save money. Colectivos, which are shared shuttle vans, operate fixed routes between the airport and key spots in Oaxaca City. These are popular for visitors with light luggage who want a budget-friendly ride.

To use Colectivo, buy your ticket at the desk inside the terminal. Then, the staff will assign you to a vehicle heading to your area. Prices are affordable, and service usually runs during most flight arrival times. The Colectivo option balances cost and convenience, especially for solo travelers or couples.

Taxi and Shuttle Services

Taxis are another widely used choice at Oaxaca Airport. Official airport taxis can be booked at the authorized desk in the arrivals hall. Fares are set based on zones in the city, ensuring transparent pricing for travelers. Taxis are best for those carrying luggage or wanting a direct drop-off.

Private shuttles and pre-booked transfer services can also be arranged. Many companies offer door-to-door rides to hotels, the city center, and coastal destinations like Huatulco or Puerto Escondido. Some travelers choose private vans, especially for groups or families. Booking ahead can help avoid waiting and secure a better price. Learn more about taxi and private shuttle options at this Oaxaca airport transportation page.

Travel Tips and Visitor Information

Travelers going through Oaxaca Airport in Mexico should be prepared for standard security checks, consider local hotel options, and pick the best travel times to avoid busy periods. Knowing key airport procedures and nearby amenities helps make the visit smoother and less stressful.

Security and Customs Procedures

Visitors to Oaxaca Airport can expect basic security screening similar to that of other airports in Mexico. For domestic flights, travelers should arrive at least 1.5 hours before departure. Arriving 2 to 3 hours before boarding is highly recommended for international flights.

Passengers will need to go through baggage checks and metal detectors. Customs officials may ask about the reason for travel or check bags at random. Having travel documents, return tickets, and a list of local contacts ready can make the process quicker.

Upon arrival, travelers from other countries must clear customs. Declining any food, plants, or large amounts of cash is essential. Travelers should know that security can move quickly but may slow down during peak times.

Nearby Hotels and Accommodation

Several hotels are located near Oaxaca Airport, ranging from budget options to more comfortable chains. Some of the closest hotels include simple inns within about 5 to 10 minutes by car. These are good options for passengers arriving late at night or leaving early in the morning.

A few hotels offer airport shuttle services, but taxis are also easy to find at the terminal. For those who want more choices, the city center is about a 20-30 minute drive away and has a wide variety of accommodation, including hostels, boutique hotels, and larger business hotels.

Many visitors stay downtown for better sightseeing opportunities, but staying close to the airport is more convenient for short layovers or early flights.

Best Time to Travel

Oaxaca Airport sees its highest number of passengers during Mexican holidays and popular travel seasons. December, Easter week, and July are especially busy, and lines can be longer during these times.

Traveling in the shoulder seasons, such as late spring or early fall, often means fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends at the airport and for flights.

The weather in Oaxaca is mild most of the year, but the rainy season runs from June to September, which might cause flight delays. Travelers who want a smooth experience should check flight schedules and local events in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Passengers use Oaxaca airport for both domestic and international travel. Many services include basic transportation, parking, and airport amenities.

How can I check the status of arrivals at Oaxaca airport?

Travelers can check flight arrivals and departures on the official Oaxaca airport website. Updates about delays or schedule changes are posted there regularly.

Does Oaxaca airport have a lounge available for passengers?

Oaxaca airport does not have a traditional airline lounge for passengers. Seating with armrests is available in public waiting areas, but no premium lounge facilities are offered.

What are the transportation options from Oaxaca airport to the city center?

Visitors can take authorized taxis, rental cars, or shuttle vans to the city center. The ride from the airport to downtown Oaxaca usually takes about 20 minutes, but traffic or local events can sometimes cause delays.

What parking facilities are available at Oaxaca airport?

There are on-site parking lots for both short-term and longer stays. Spaces fill quickly during busy travel periods, so travelers should plan.

Are there duty-free shopping options within Oaxaca airport?

Currently, Oaxaca airport does not offer dedicated duty-free shops. Some small stores and kiosks sell snacks, drinks, and travel items.

What shuttle services are offered at Oaxaca airport?

Shuttle vans take passengers to hotels and major spots in the city. These shared rides are available outside the arrivals area and do not require booking.