Los Cabos International Airport
Mexico’s sixth-busiest airport and a key international gateway to the Baja California Sur region.
Overview of the Airport
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is located 7 miles north of San José del Cabo and serves the Los Cabos region, including Cabo San Lucas. It is the primary international airport for southern Baja California Sur, handling the majority of tourist arrivals to the area.
23.1518, -109.7210
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic increased by 5% year-over-year, setting a new record for annual visitors in 2025.
Employment
2,800
Employees include airline staff, ground handlers, security, concessions, and airport administration.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
Ongoing terminal expansions and apron upgrades are increasing capacity to accommodate growing passenger and aircraft volumes.
Technological Advancements
Deployment of automated check-in kiosks and enhanced security screening streamline passenger processing.
Sustainability Initiatives
Implementation of solar energy systems and water conservation measures support environmental goals.
General Stats
This page provides flight statistics and data, including on-time performance, delay frequencies, and flight cancellations.
View General Stats→Port Facts
Fluent Cargo provides a port/freight page for Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), listing 13 carriers and their scheduled frequencies.
View Port Facts→General Studies
The information available regarding formal environmental impact studies for Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is limited and primarily consists of reports from the airport authority and related governmental agencies, rather than a single, consolidated official impact study document.
View General Studies→Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Los Cabos International Airport.
Los Cabos Says SJD Normal After Puerto Vallarta Violence
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) remained fully operational despite the cartel-linked unrest in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. The Los Cabos Tourism Board reported no disruptions to hotels, visitor services, or ground transportation.
Los Cabos International Airport announces 12-unit retail space tender
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is seeking proposals for ten retail spaces in the International Terminal and two additional areas in the Domestic Terminal.
Los Cabos Airport E-Gates: Here's Who Can Skip The Immigration Line In 2026
The 'snake line' at SJD immigration is now optional for certain travelers, thanks to the new E-Gates. The system allows specific individuals to bypass the traditional immigration process, streamlining arrivals.
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival & Baggage Claim10-20 mins
- Immigration Check5-15 mins
- Baggage Reclaim (if applicable)10-25 mins
- Customs Inspection5-10 mins
- Proceed to Gate5-10 mins
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off60 mins pre-departure
- Cargo Manifest Verification45 mins pre-departure
- Security Screening & Customs Clearance30 mins pre-departure
- Loading onto Aircraft15 mins pre-departure
- Weight & Balance Verification10 mins pre-departure
- Baggage Tagging & Documentation5 mins pre-departure
- Final Aircraft Check & Stowage5 mins pre-departure
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early
Due to potential delays, especially during peak season, we recommend arriving at SJD at least 3 hours before your international flight. This allows ample time for check-in, security, and any unexpected issues.
- 2
Utilize Mobile Check-in
Many airlines offer mobile check-in services. Utilize this to bypass long queues at the airline counters and expedite the check-in process.
- 3
Consider Pre-Clearance Security
If your airline offers pre-clearance security screening at SJD, take advantage of it. This significantly reduces wait times at the main security checkpoint.
- 4
Understand Customs Procedures
Familiarize yourself with Mexican customs regulations regarding allowed items. Declare all items accurately to avoid potential delays or fines upon arrival in Mexico.
- 5
Transportation Options - Pre-Book
Pre-booking your transportation (private shuttle, taxi, or ride-sharing service) from SJD to your destination is highly recommended, particularly during busy times, to avoid long waits and potential overcharging.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Book in Advance
Air freight capacity at SJD fluctuates significantly based on seasonal demand and events (like Art Basel). Booking shipments well in advance – ideally 6-8 weeks – ensures availability and often secures better rates. Coordinate with your forwarder to understand peak periods.
- 2
Utilize Dedicated Cargo Terminals
SJD operates dedicated cargo terminals for air freight handling. Leveraging these terminals streamlines customs procedures and minimizes delays. Ensure your forwarder has established relationships to optimize terminal access.
- 3
Understand Customs Regulations Thoroughly
Mexico’s customs regulations can be complex. Accurate and complete documentation is crucial. Work with a customs broker familiar with SJD and Mexican import/export laws to avoid delays and potential fines. Pay close attention to restricted items.
- 4
Consider Temperature-Controlled Options
Los Cabos experiences high temperatures, especially during summer months. If shipping temperature-sensitive goods, proactively confirm the availability of temperature-controlled storage and transport solutions at SJD. Documentation requirements for these shipments are also stringent.
- 5
Communicate Clearly with Forwarder and Airline
Open and frequent communication between your forwarder, the airline, and SJD’s ground handling services is paramount. Provide all necessary information – shipment details, dimensions, weight, and special handling requirements – promptly. Confirm schedules and potential issues proactively.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Los Cabos International Airport.
Los Cabos Airport Cargo - Aeromexpress Airport Cargo Services
Details the cargo operations managed by Aeromexpress Cargo, a subsidiary of Aeromexico Airlines, at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
Los Cabos Tourism Performance Statistics 2025 | Updated Monthly
Provides monthly air passenger movement statistics for Los Cabos Airport, sourced from Aeroportuario del Pacifico reports.
Los Cabos International Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional deLosCabos) (IATA:SJD, ICAO: MMSD)
Wikipedia page providing an overview of Los Cabos International Airport including its location, destinations served, and IATA/ICAO codes.
Location & Maps
Find Los Cabos International Airport on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
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Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Collaborate with federal and local authorities to secure funding for infrastructure and sustainability projects.
Infrastructure Investment
Prioritize terminal modernization and runway improvements to support future growth and operational efficiency.
Sustainability Focus
Accelerate adoption of renewable energy and eco-friendly practices to meet regulatory and tourism sector standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Los Cabos International Airport.
How long does passenger processing typically take?
Passenger processing times at SJD vary depending on the time of day and the number of departing flights. During peak hours, it can take approximately 45-60 minutes to complete security and immigration procedures. Utilizing the online check-in service can often expedite this process.
What services are available for cargo/freight handling?
SJD offers comprehensive cargo handling services, including warehousing, customs brokerage, and trucking. The facility is equipped to handle both general cargo and specialized shipments with dedicated personnel for efficient processing and secure storage.
What transport options are available from the airport?
Several ground transportation options are readily available from SJD, including taxis, private shuttles, and ride-sharing services. Pre-booked shuttles are a convenient and reliable way to reach your destination in San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas.
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
