Tijuana Airport Terminal 1

About the Tijuana Airport Terminal 1 (Main Terminal)

Tijuana International Airport, officially known as General Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport (IATA: TIJ), is a unique binational facility that serves both the Mexican city of Tijuana and the U.S. city of San Diego. The airport’s Main Terminal, also referred to as Terminal 1, is the primary terminal for all commercial flights.

Historical Overview

The Main Terminal of Tijuana Airport opened in July 1970, taking over from the original terminal, which then became a base for the Mexican Armed Forces. Over the years, the terminal has undergone several expansions and renovations to meet the growing demands of the region. Significant developments include the 2002 expansion that doubled the terminal’s capacity and the 2011-2012 remodeling that introduced new customs facilities and a bus terminal.

Terminal Layout and Facilities

The Main Terminal is a multi-story building divided into two concourses, A and B, with a total of 23 boarding gates. The terminal handles both domestic and international flights, with Concourse A primarily serving domestic routes and Concourse B accommodating both domestic and international flights.

On the ground level, the terminal houses the arrivals area, including baggage claim and customs. The upper level is dedicated to departures and check-in. The terminal features a variety of passenger amenities such as ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, food and beverage outlets, and free Wi-Fi.

Additional services include luggage storage, a pharmacy, baby care rooms, and a VIP lounge that operates 24/7, offering food, snacks, Wi-Fi, and more.

Cross Border Xpress (CBX)

One of the most distinctive features of Tijuana Airport is the Cross Border Xpress (CBX), a pedestrian bridge that connects the terminal in Tijuana with a terminal building in San Diego, California. This 120-meter bridge allows passengers to cross the U.S.-Mexico border directly from the airport. The CBX terminal in the U.S. side handles check-ins and U.S. customs and immigration for passengers traveling to or from Tijuana. To use the bridge, travelers need a boarding pass, a CBX ticket, and their passport. This facility significantly streamlines the travel process, making it easier for U.S. passengers to fly out of Tijuana.

Airlines and Destinations

Volaris is the largest operator at Tijuana Airport, providing flights to over 35 domestic destinations. Other airlines operating from the Main Terminal include Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus, and Calafia Airlines. The airport serves a variety of international destinations, enhancing its role as a major gateway in the region.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Main Terminal is well-connected with various transportation options. Buses and shuttles provide links to different parts of Tijuana and beyond, including services to the U.S. Rental cars are available on both the Mexican and U.S. sides of the border. Official taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can be accessed outside the terminal.

Parking is available at the Main Terminal, with cheaper rates on the Mexican side compared to the U.S. side. For those crossing the border, it is often faster to park on the U.S. side and use the CBX bridge to access the terminal.

Conclusion

Tijuana Airport’s Main Terminal is a vital hub for both domestic and international travel, uniquely positioned to serve passengers from Mexico and the United States. Its comprehensive facilities, combined with the innovative Cross Border Xpress, make it a convenient and efficient choice for travelers in the region.

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