The Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) is in the midst of a historic transformation that will not only change its infrastructure but also solidify the destination as a cornerstone of Mexican tourism. With the construction of a new Terminal 2, this monumental project aims to alleviate growing passenger demand and project an image of modernity and sustainability, positioning it at the forefront of the airline industry.
The Numbers Driving Change: Passenger Traffic
The expansion is not a luxury but a necessity dictated by the region's unstoppable tourism growth. Throughout 2024, Puerto Vallarta Airport served over 6.7 million passengers, a figure that has exceeded its operational capacity and underscores the project's urgency. This passenger volume places it among the top five airports in Mexico that handle 90% of the country's international connectivity.
Once completed, the airport's capacity is estimated to double, allowing it to handle more than 8 million passengers annually. This anticipated growth is a direct response to the strong demand from travelers from the United States, Canada, and Europe, who see Puerto Vallarta as a safe and attractive destination.
A Project of Historic Investment and Scope
The expansion project is one of the most ambitious investments in the country's tourism infrastructure. Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), the airport's operator, has allocated a total investment of over 9 billion pesos. A portion of this, approximately 3.6 billion pesos, corresponds to the 2025-2029 five-year investment plan, while the remaining over 6 billion come from the previous five-year period.
The centerpiece of this expansion is the New Terminal 2, a structure that will add more than 89,000 square meters of space . This building is designed not only to increase capacity but also to revolutionize the passenger experience with cutting-edge technology for check-in and security processes.
Timeline and Construction Progress
Construction, which began in the first quarter of 2022, is moving forward at a steady pace. As of mid-2025, the project is approximately 45% complete. The scheduled delivery date for the new terminal is late 2026. The first phase is expected to be operational throughout 2025, marking a significant milestone in the terminal's modernization.
The construction itself is a large-scale engineering feat, involving the installation of 31 seismic isolators and 23,000 tons of steel to ensure the structural integrity of the building.
Sustainability: The Core of the New Terminal
One of the project's most notable aspects is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The new Puerto Vallarta Terminal is designed to be the first in Latin America to seek "Net Zero" certification, a standard that aims to reduce carbon emissions to zero. This ecological focus is not only a distinctive feature but also reinforces Puerto Vallarta's image as a responsible and environmentally friendly tourist destination.
Services and Future: The Traveler's Experience
In addition to expanding its infrastructure, the airport is working on improving its passenger services. The new terminal will include more spacious waiting areas, a wider selection of shops and restaurants, and the implementation of self-check-in systems to streamline processes. The goal is to make the experience at the terminal as pleasant as the destination itself.
The expansion of Puerto Vallarta Airport is more than just an engineering project; it is a long-term investment in the destination's future. With a modern and sustainable infrastructure, Puerto Vallarta is preparing to welcome the next generation of travelers, solidifying its position as one of Mexico's most important and efficient gateways to the world.
