Quintana Roo Works to Restore Air Connectivity, Open New Routes at Four Airports

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Bernardo Cueto Riestra, the state’s tourism secretary, said the government is working to recover air routes lost during the past year and is analyzing new connections needed in Cozumel and Chetumal.

Cueto Riestra attributed the reduction in flights to high jet-fuel costs, aircraft being grounded for maintenance, and other factors beyond the destination’s control. He said officials are developing a solid plan so that air links can be restored as soon as airlines’ financial conditions allow, with the goal of increasing tourist arrivals at the state’s four international airports.

“We are working hard, and one of the strategies that has already produced results is the signing of an agreement with Mexicana de Aviación to strengthen domestic connectivity with Tulum’s international airport,” Cueto Riestra said. “We already have a flight to Las Vegas and some routes to the United States. We are advancing to recover lost connections and open new routes when the airlines are ready. The aim is to expand the state’s connectivity to strategic markets.”

The secretary said eight flights operated by Magni Charters and Spirit were withdrawn from Cancún’s airport terminal. In Tulum, he said, 16 seasonal routes have been identified that need greater promotion to remain viable.

Cueto Riestra acknowledged that the state already has a good connectivity offer, but said more flights are essential given the tourism demand the destination attracts. He said the government is considering incentives and promotional resources to support the launch of new connections.

“Improving the flight offer and strengthening the network of direct and connecting links will make it easier for more travelers to reach Quintana Roo’s main destinations,” he said. “It will also strengthen the tourism competitiveness of the Mexican Caribbean and maintain growth in visitor arrivals. That is why we are working to recover routes and support the opening of new ones.”

After a contraction in air demand and a significant drop in passenger traffic in the Mexican Caribbean, the Tourism Secretariat has stepped up promotional and positioning campaigns for the region’s main destinations in hopes of closing the year on a strong note.