Los Cabos International Airport Overview

Los Cabos International Airport (IATA: SJD, ICAO: MMSD), located in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico, is the primary international gateway to the Los Cabos region. It is one of Mexico’s busiest airports for global tourism, serving travellers headed to Cabo San Lucas and surrounding beach resorts. The airport features a modern infrastructure catering to domestic and international traffic, with numerous direct flights from North America.

General Information

  • Location: San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur
  • Country: Mexico
  • IATA Code: SJD
  • ICAO Code: MMSD
  • Elevation: 374 feet (114 metres)
  • Coordinates: 23°09′27″N 109°43′31″W
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • Flights: Scheduled international and domestic services
  • Timezone: UTC−7 (Mountain Standard Time)
  • Distance from City: Approx. 11 km north of San José del Cabo
  • Website: www.aeropuertosgap.com.mx
  • Ground Services: Passenger and cargo handling, customs, and immigration
  • Operator: Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP)

Airport Details

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 16/34: 3,000 metres (9,843 feet) – Asphalt
    • 02/20: 2,500 metres (8,202 feet) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strengths: Suitable for narrow and wide-body aircraft
  • Fire Services: Available
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Assistance: ILS, VOR/DME, NDB, GPS
  • Customs: Available
  • Aircraft Types: Up to Code E aircraft
  • Terminals: Three terminals (Terminal 1 for domestic; Terminal 2 and FBOs for international)
  • Cargo: Cargo operations supported with limited dedicated facilities
  • Fuel: JET A-1 available
  • FBOs: Several FBOs including Cabo VIP Services and Aerodinamics
  • Equipment: Standard ground support equipment available
  • Ground Services: Comprehensive flight handling support

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: 1–2 days for non-scheduled flights
  • Permission Required: Yes, for private and charter operations
  • Slots: Required during peak travel seasons
  • Backup Airports:
    • LAP: Manuel Márquez de León International Airport, La Paz, Baja California Sur
    • Recommended: LAP (La Paz International Airport)

Contact Information

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: Valid passport required; visa regulations based on nationality
  • Crew Requirements: Valid ID, licenses, visas (if applicable), and standard documentation
  • Transport: Taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services available at the airport
  • Accommodation:
    • Los Cabos: Wide range of beachfront resorts, luxury hotels, and boutique stays
    • Nearby: On-site VIP lounges, nearby hotels within 5–10 km
  • Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN); USD widely accepted in tourist areas

Nearby Attractions

Cabo San Lucas

A popular resort city known for beaches, marine life, and the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas.

San José del Cabo

A charming colonial town with art galleries, cobblestone streets, and cultural festivals.

Land’s End

Striking rock formations at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula are ideal for boat tours and snorkelling.

Chileno Bay

A family-friendly beach known for its calm waters and snorkelling.

El Arco de Cabo San Lucas

A dramatic natural rock arch where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: Rental cars are popular; taxis and hotel shuttles are also available
  • Travel: Many resorts offer pre-arranged transfers; plan early during high season
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Winter (November–March): Mild weather, peak tourist season
    • Summer (July–September): Hot with chances of tropical storms, but less crowded
  • Tips:
    • U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but local currency is better for small purchases
    • Confirm return airport transfers ahead of time
    • Book excursions in advance for popular sites like whale watching
    • For flight support, coordinate with your FBO or airport handler in advance

Please note that Los Cabos International Airport is a tourist-centric airport offering a mix of luxury services and efficient handling. Travellers are encouraged to check the airport’s official site or consult their handling agent for real-time updates.