Acapulco Airport (ACA) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

IATA Code

ACA

ICAO Code

MMAA

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Acapulco International Airport quick facts

Airport Information
Location Blvd. De las Naciones s/n poblado de Los Amates, Acapulco, Guerrero, C.P. 39931, Mexico
Website www.oma.aero/en/airports/acapulco/
Airlines Aeromexico, American Airlines, United Airlines, Volaris, VivaAerobus
Terminals 1 Main Terminal (handles both domestic and international flights)
Annual Passengers Approximately 700,000 to 900,000 passengers
Hub for No major hub; serves as a focus city for domestic leisure routes
Phone Number +52 744 466 9330

Located approximately 26 km (16 miles) southeast of the traditional hotel strip and city center, Acapulco International Airport handles domestic flights from across Mexico and seasonal international services, mainly from the United States and Canada. With a single, efficient passenger terminal, the airport caters to nearly one million travelers annually who come for the sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife of Guerrero's Pacific coast. Here is everything you need to know before you fly.

Acapulco International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Acapulco International Airport operates from a single main terminal building that manages both domestic and international arrivals and departures. The layout is compact and designed for straightforward navigation. Upon entering the terminal, travelers find a central check-in hall on the ground floor. After passing through security screening, the departure lounge leads to the boarding gates. Immigration and customs facilities are located on the arrivals level for international passengers.

The terminal is laid out in a linear fashion. Walking distances remain very short compared to major international hubs. From the main entrance to the farthest boarding gate, the walk takes no more than 5 to 7 minutes. The arrivals and departures areas are vertically separated, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures accessible via the upper level.

Navigating Acapulco International Airport Terminals

Main Terminal
Airlines operating from this terminal include Aeromexico, American Airlines, United Airlines, Volaris, and VivaAerobus. Check-in counters are grouped by airline directly inside the main entrance. The terminal was renovated in recent years to modernize the waiting areas and improve air conditioning. The VIP Lounge Aeropuerto is accessible airside, located on the second floor after security. Dining options include local snack bars and a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine, plus a convenience store for essentials and Mexican candies.

The single-terminal design means passengers do not need to transfer between separate buildings. All gates are located within a short walk of the central security checkpoint. Downloading your airline's boarding pass on your phone before arriving is an easy way to save time here.

Transportation to and from Acapulco International Airport

The airport sits along the coastal highway, making access relatively direct despite the distance from the city center. The drive to the traditional hotel zone of Acapulco Dorado takes approximately 25 to 40 minutes, while reaching the Diamante area takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Planning your ground transportation in advance is strongly advised because reliable public transit options are limited.

Getting to and from Acapulco International Airport by Car

Driving from the airport to central Acapulco involves following Boulevard de las Naciones northwest along the coast. Traffic tends to build during the late afternoon and around 8:00 AM, especially near the city center. The hotel zone has narrow streets that can become congested. Factor in an extra 15 minutes during peak commuting hours if you are driving to the Golden Zone.

Parking at the terminal is available directly across from the arrivals area. Short-term parking rates are approximately $2 per hour, with a 24-hour maximum around $15. Long-term parking is available in the same lot. There are currently no privately operated parking lots adjacent to the airport with valet or covered parking services. Hotels nearby sometimes offer park-and-fly packages for guests staying multiple nights.

A cell phone waiting lot is situated near the terminal entrance road. Drivers can wait here for free until arriving passengers call to confirm they are at the curb. Curbside drop-off is permitted directly in front of the departures entrance, but vehicles cannot be left unattended, and security personnel strictly enforce a 5-minute limit.

Getting to and from Acapulco International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Uber operates in Acapulco, and the app works reliably for pickup from the airport. The designated pickup area is located just outside the arrivals hall. Walk toward the parking lot area and set your pin there when requesting a ride. Taxis are authorized airport taxis with fixed rates; you pay at the transport counter inside the terminal before exiting. The fare to the city center is approximately $25 to $35. An Uber ride to the same destination typically costs between $15 and $20.

Getting to and from Acapulco International Airport by Public Transportation

Local public buses are available along the main boulevard, but they require walking to the highway from the terminal, which is impractical with luggage. Colectivo vans serve the coastal corridor but do not have a dedicated stop within the airport grounds. The most practical and cost-effective option for budget travelers is to take an airport taxi. A direct public transit bus service from the terminal to the city does not operate on a fixed schedule.

Key Amenities at Acapulco International Airport

ATMs

Banorte and Santander ATMs are located in the public arrivals hall and the departure lounge. There are approximately four ATMs total, dispensing Mexican pesos. Most also accept international Visa and Mastercard debit cards.

Lost and Found

The airport administration manages lost and found. Report missing items at the information desk near baggage claim. You can also call the main airport line at +52 744 466 9330. If an item is lost on an aircraft, contact your airline's local station manager directly.

Luggage Services

Luggage carts are available in the arrivals area for complimentary use. There is no luggage wrapping or left-luggage storage facility inside the terminal, so plan to carry everything with you.

Pets

A designated outdoor pet relief area is located at the far left side of the terminal entrance, past the taxi stand. The area has artificial grass and waste bag dispensers. For domestic flights within Mexico, small pets may travel in the cabin in an approved carrier; larger animals travel in the cargo hold.

Showers

Currently, there are no public showers at Acapulco International Airport. The VIP Lounge does not have a shower facility.

Currency Exchange

A currency exchange window operates in the arrivals hall. Operating hours generally align with flight schedules, usually from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The exchange offers better rates for USD to Mexican pesos than what you might find at a hotel; however, using an ATM gives a superior rate if your bank charges low foreign transaction fees.

Smoking Area

Smoking is not permitted inside the terminal. Designated outdoor smoking areas are located just outside the terminal building on the arrivals and departures levels.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal features local art installations that highlight Guerrero's cultural heritage. Seating areas near the gates are generous. The building provides good views of the runway and surrounding tropical mountains.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the network named OMA Free WiFi and enter a valid email address. Charging stations are placed near seating areas in the departure lounge, offering both standard outlets and USB ports.

Airport Lounges at Acapulco International Airport

Acapulco International Airport offers one lounge for departing passengers. It is a simple retreat offering refreshments and a quiet place to wait before boarding.

Airline Lounges at Acapulco International Airport

Lounge VIP Aeropuerto
The lounge is located airside in the Main Terminal on the second floor. After security, take the stairs to the upper level and turn right. The space offers light refreshments, drinks, Wi-Fi, and newspapers. Complimentary alcoholic beverages are limited to two per adult, restricted to beer and wine only. The environment is quiet, with air conditioning and television sets. Access is available through Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or by purchasing a day pass for approximately $48. The lounge operates daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Maximum stay is six hours. Children under 6 enter free with an adult.

Lounge Name Location Access Method Day Pass Cost Key Features
Lounge VIP Aeropuerto Main Terminal, 2nd Floor (Airside) Priority Pass / Day Pass $48 Refreshments, Beer/Wine, Wi-Fi, TV

Other Airports in the Region

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH)
Located approximately 245 km (152 miles) northwest of Acapulco, about a 3.5-hour drive up the coast. This airport serves the Ixtapa resort area and often handles overflow vacation traffic. It offers a smaller, slower-paced arrival experience and can work for travelers planning to split time between taxco and the Guerrero coast.

Chilpancingo National Airport (CIP)
About 110 km (68 miles) northeast of Acapulco, this small regional airport mainly handles domestic flights from Mexico City. It has limited commercial service. The drive takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes through mountainous terrain. Best suited for travelers heading directly to the state capital rather than the beach.

Acapulco International Airport Overview

Acapulco International Airport traces its roots to the growth of Acapulco as a premier global tourism destination in the mid-20th century. The official name of the facility is General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport, honoring a 19th-century military leader from Guerrero and former president of Mexico. Locals often still refer to it simply as el aeropuerto de Acapulco. The airport sits at an elevation of just 5 meters (16 feet) above sea level, nestled between the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Its geographic position makes final approaches spectacular, with planes flying low over the ocean or skimming ridges before touchdown. The facility handles combined civilian and limited military traffic. Annual passenger traffic fluctuates between approximately 700,000 and 900,000 travelers, peaking during winter months and major holiday periods like Semana Santa.

Acapulco International Airport Postal Code

Full postal code: 39931
City: Acapulco de Juárez
Province/State: Guerrero
Country: Mexico
Complete mailing address: Blvd. De las Naciones s/n, Colonia Plan de Los Amates, C.P. 39931, Acapulco de Juárez, Guerrero, México

Duty Free and Shopping at Acapulco International Airport

Duty-free shopping is available for passengers departing on international flights. The selection is modest compared to larger hubs. The shop offers liquor, perfumes, and tobacco at duty-free prices. For domestic travelers, several gift stores in the departure area sell regional products such as mezcal from Guerrero, silver jewelry from Taxco, and traditional handcrafted masks. Most savvy travelers buy silver jewelry directly in Taxco, about 3.5 hours away, but the airport shops provide a convenient last-chance purchase for crafts and vanilla extract. Several small cafés serve tortas, tacos, and coffee. The food selection leans heavily toward quick-service Mexican classics rather than international chains.

I
Product Category Approximate Price (USD)
Bottle of Oaxacan Mezcal (750ml) Spirits $25 - $45
Silver Earrings (Taxco Style) Jewelry $30 - $80
Mexican Vanilla Extract (250ml) Food/Souvenir $8 - $12
Carton of Mexican Cigarettes Tobacco $35
Artisanal Hot Sauce Set Food $15

Security Wait Times Acapulco International Airport

Security at Acapulco International Airport moves efficiently due to the single-terminal layout and moderate passenger volume. On a normal weekday outside of holiday periods, the wait time from entering the security line to reaching the departure lounge is 5 to 15 minutes. During peak holiday weeks, especially Christmas, New Year's Day, and the Easter vacation period, that wait can extend to 30 or even 45 minutes. The busiest days are Friday and Sunday, with peak security screening congestion occurring between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when several flights to Mexico City and the United States are preparing for departure. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are not available at this airport, as those are U.S.-specific programs. Standard security protocols apply: liquids must be under 100 ml, and laptops must be removed from bags.

Terminal Typical Wait Time Peak Hours
Main Terminal 5 - 15 minutes (standard), 20 - 45 minutes (peak) 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Acapulco International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The departures drop-off zone is located along the upper-level curb outside the main entrance. Drivers may stop for immediate unloading, but the vehicle cannot be left unattended, and the time limit is 5 minutes. Arrivals pick-up happens at the lower-level curb. This area gets crowded when multiple flights arrive simultaneously. The free cell phone waiting lot is a 2-minute drive from the terminal, located on the airport access road. Wait there until your party is standing at the arrivals curb with luggage, then drive forward to meet them. There is currently no dedicated Kiss and Fly zone. Commercial zones for taxis and ride-sharing are clearly marked in the center section of the arrivals roadway.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Acapulco International Airport

Acapulco International Airport is not a hub for any major airline but receives consistent service from Aeromexico, which offers the most frequent connections to Mexico City. This route runs multiple times daily using Embraer and Boeing 737 aircraft. Volaris and VivaAerobus provide domestic low-cost alternatives linking Acapulco to Mexico City, Tijuana, and Guadalajara. For international travel, American Airlines operates seasonal service from Dallas/Fort Worth, and United Airlines flies from Houston Intercontinental during the winter high season. Charter flights from Canada occasionally arrive between December and March. Booking flights midweek typically secures lower fares compared to the weekend rush.

Getting to and from Acapulco International Airport

The drive into Acapulco along the coast is scenic and straightforward. Having a car gives you freedom to explore, but the narrow streets of the older hotel zone can challenge large SUVs. Parking at hotels often incurs an extra daily charge, so compare transportation costs carefully.

Car Rental at Acapulco International Airport

Car rental counters for Alamo, Hertz, and Europcar are located in the arrivals hall. Alamo and Hertz have consistently strong reviews, with daily rates starting around $35 for an economy car. Compact sedans like the Nissan Versa and Volkswagen Gol are popular. Booking at least two weeks ahead secures the best rates and availability. A rental car gives you easy access to remote beaches like Barra Vieja and the cliff diving spectacle at La Quebrada, both of which are difficult to reach by bus. An International Driving Permit is recommended for foreign renters, alongside your original license.

Acapulco International Airport Taxi Services

Authorized airport taxis are available right outside baggage claim. Purchase a ticket at the transport booth inside the arrivals hall. Fares are prepaid and based on a zone system. The ride to Las Brisas or the Golden Zone costs around $30, while the Diamante zone costs approximately $18. Drivers generally accept cash in pesos, and some take U.S. dollars at a less favorable exchange rate.

Private Car Services at Acapulco International Airport

For travelers who want a waiting driver with a sign, private transfer services can be booked online before landing. These services operate with fixed pricing, newer SUVs, and bilingual drivers. They are ideal for families with children or groups carrying golf clubs. Advance reservations ensure a smooth experience for late-night arrivals.

Bus Services at Acapulco International Airport

No dedicated public bus service operates directly from the airport sidewalk. The nearest intercity bus station is the Central de Autobuses Papagayo in downtown Acapulco. Taxis or a short Uber ride can connect you there. From that station, luxury buses from Estrella de Oro and Costa Line depart frequently to Mexico City, taking approximately 5 hours each way.

Hotel Shuttles

Large resorts in the Diamante zone, as well as older hotels in the Golden Zone, offer airport shuttle services. This must be arranged directly with the property in advance. Some resorts include the shuttle for free in all-inclusive packages, while others charge between $15 and $25 per person each way. Ask about the schedule when booking your room.

Parking at Acapulco International Airport

The parking lot sits directly across the access road from the terminal. It is an open-air lot with 24-hour security. Short-term parking is suitable for greeting passengers or dropping off family. Daily maximum rates are around $15. Long-term parking uses the same lot without a weekly cap advantage, so 7 days will cost approximately $105. Payment machines accept cash and Visa/Mastercard. There are currently no electric vehicle charging stations at the airport. Free parking is not available within walking distance of the terminal.

Places to explore near Acapulco International Airport

Many visitors speed through the airport zone to reach the hotel districts, but a few excellent stops are nearby. Barra Vieja lies about 20 minutes east of the airport; this long, undeveloped beach features simple seafood restaurants serving pescado a la talla cooked over open coals. The Laguna de Tres Palos, just a 10-minute drive further, provides boat tours through mangrove channels alive with herons and ibis. For a more polished experience, the La Isla shopping village in the Diamante zone is a 15-minute drive from the terminal, offering boutiques and waterfront dining. Downtown Acapulco and the historic Fort of San Diego are approximately a 35-minute drive away. The famous La Quebrada cliff divers perform nightly about 40 minutes from the airport. Taxco, the colonial silver city, makes for a demanding but rewarding day trip requiring a 3.5-hour drive inland through the mountains.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Acapulco

Acapulco enjoys a tropical climate. The dry season from November through May brings sunny, hot days with average highs of 30°C to 33°C (86°F to 91°F) and comfortable evenings around 22°C (72°F). This is the prime season for reliable beach weather. The rainy season runs from June to October, marked by intense afternoon downpours that usually clear by sunset. Daytime highs remain around 31°C (88°F). Humidity spikes during these months. Peak tourist months are December through March, when accommodation rates soar. The weeks around Easter (Semana Santa) see the city packed with domestic tourists. Late November offers a sweet spot of good weather and moderate prices before the winter crowds arrive.

Essential Travel Tips

  • Arrive early: For international flights, plan on arriving 2.5 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5 hours usually suffices, but add extra time during Christmas and Easter.
  • Flight status: Download your airline's app to monitor gate changes and delays. Airport information screens in the terminal are updated regularly in English and Spanish.
  • Packing: Lightweight cotton clothing, swimwear, and strong sunscreen are essential. Pack a light rain jacket if traveling between June and October.
  • Currency: Cash is king at markets and smaller restaurants. Bring a debit card for ATM withdrawals and a credit card for hotels and car rentals. Exchange rates at the airport are acceptable for small amounts.
  • Language: English is widely spoken at hotels and the airport. Knowing basic Spanish phrases like gracias and la cuenta, por favor enriches your experience in the city center.
  • Driving license: Foreign visitors need a valid home driver's license plus an International Driving Permit to rent a car and drive legally in Guerrero.
  • Fuel: The nearest gas station to Acapulco International Airport is a Pemex located on Boulevard de las Naciones directly at the airport access road intersection. Fill up there before heading into the countryside.

About the City

Acapulco was Mexico's original international resort destination, discovered by Hollywood stars in the 1950s. The city of Acapulco de Juárez has a population of approximately 700,000 people and divides naturally into three zones. The traditional Golden Zone, Acapulco Dorado, runs along the bay with vintage hotels and bustling nightclubs. The modern Diamante zone spreads inland toward the airport with luxury resorts, golf courses, and beach clubs. Old Acapulco centers around the zócalo and the San Diego Fort, where families gather in the evening. Local cuisine is exceptional: pozole verde on Thursday nights is a citywide tradition. Pair it with ice-cold coconut water sipped from a fresh coco on the beach. The cliff divers of La Quebrada remain a breathtaking cultural attraction, performing nightly dives from 35 meters above the Pacific surge. Acapulco works brilliantly as a base for exploring Guerrero's lesser-known coastal villages and interior towns like Taxco, while still offering all the energy of a major tropical city.

Start Your Journey at Acapulco International Airport

Acapulco International Airport delivers a compact, efficient arrival experience that gets you from the plane to the sand with minimal hassle. The moment you step outside the terminal, the warm Pacific breeze and the silhouette of the Sierra Madre welcome you to the Guerrero coast. Whether you are here for a weekend at a Diamante resort or a month-long exploration of the Pacific shoreline, having your own set of wheels transforms the trip. A rental car unlocks remote beaches, hidden taco shops, and spontaneous detours around the bay. Secure your vehicle now through our comparison tool, so it is waiting the moment you land. Your adventure on the Mexican Riviera starts here.

Have Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions about Acapulco Airport (ACA) Airport

Everything you need to know before traveling through Acapulco Airport (ACA)

Acapulco Airport (ACA), officially General Juan N. Alvarez International Airport, is located approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers) southeast of Acapulco's main tourist zone and city center. It sits along the coastal highway, Carretera Base Aerea Militar No. 7, in the Pie de la Cuesta area. The drive to the famous Costera Miguel Aleman, where most hotels and beaches are situated, takes about 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic. It is the primary gateway for travelers visiting Acapulco's traditional Golden Zone, Diamante district, and the surrounding Guerrero state beach resorts. The airport is easily accessible via the main coastal road, and clear signage directs you to both the Zona Dorada and Acapulco Diamante exits shortly after leaving the terminal.

The IATA code for Acapulco Airport is ACA. When booking flights or managing luggage tags, you will see the code ACA to designate Acapulco as your destination. This three-letter code is used universally by airlines, travel agencies, and baggage handling systems to ensure smooth scheduling and routing. The airport's official name is General Juan N. Alvarez International Airport, paying tribute to a former president and military leader from Guerrero, but travelers almost exclusively see it listed as ACA on boarding passes and flight status screens.

Acapulco Airport (ACA) is roughly 16 miles (26 kilometers) from the city center along the Costera Miguel Aleman. In normal traffic conditions, the drive takes around 30 minutes, but peak holiday seasons like Semana Santa or Christmas can double that time due to congestion on the coastal highway. The airport actually sits closer to the newer Diamante district, which is about a 10- to 15-minute drive away. If you are staying in the traditional Golden Zone or near Papagayo Park, plan for at least 35 minutes of travel time after collecting your luggage.

Acapulco Airport (ACA) operates a single, modern passenger terminal building. This compact, two-level structure efficiently handles both domestic and international flights. The ground floor houses the arrivals hall, baggage claim, car rental counters, and customs checkpoints. The upper level is dedicated to departures, containing the check-in desks and the security screening area leading to the boarding gates. Walking from one end of the terminal to the other takes only a few minutes, making connections or navigation very straightforward for travelers.

Several major Mexican and international airlines operate at ACA. Aeromexico and Volaris offer frequent daily flights connecting Acapulco with Mexico City. Viva Aerobus also provides domestic budget routes, often from Mexico City and Monterrey. For international travelers, American Airlines operates seasonal routes from Dallas/Fort Worth, while United Airlines provides service from Houston. Air Canada and Sunwing Airlines typically offer seasonal winter charters from Canada. The route network is constantly evolving, so checking with your preferred carrier for seasonal availability to ACA is always a wise step during trip planning.

Yes, despite its relatively small footprint, Acapulco Airport (ACA) is fully classified as an international airport. Its official name includes 'International,' and the terminal has dedicated customs and immigration facilities. These facilities primarily process flights arriving from the United States and Canada, especially during the winter high season from November through April. When you arrive on an international flight, you will go through standard Mexican immigration screening and customs baggage inspection before exiting into the main public arrivals hall.

You have three main transport options from ACA to the city center. The first is using an authorized taxi; you must purchase a ticket from the official transport booth inside the arrivals hall before exiting. The second is renting a car from the on-site counters. The third is arranging a private shuttle or ride through a pre-booked hotel transfer. There are no direct city buses that pick up right outside the terminal door; instead, public buses require a short walk to the main highway. For safety and convenience, pre-paid taxis and rental cars are highly recommended for first-time visitors.

Yes, but with a slight inconvenience. The local public buses do not enter the airport premises. To catch an Acapulco-bound public bus, you must exit the terminal area and walk about 10 minutes to the main coastal boulevard. Look for buses marked 'Costera' or 'Centro.' These are very affordable, costing around $1 to $2 per ride, but they can be crowded, lack space for large luggage, and are not air-conditioned. Because of the walk and the lack of direct access, most tourists with suitcases prefer the official airport taxis or rental cars.

An authorized airport taxi to the Golden Zone or city center typically costs between $30 and $45. The exact fare depends on your specific hotel zone, with the Diamante district being slightly cheaper due to its proximity. You must pay at the official taxi counter located just inside the arrivals lobby. Do not accept rides from solicitors in the terminal. After paying, a staff member will escort you to your assigned driver. The price is fixed and based on zones, giving you peace of mind that you won't be negotiating a meter rate after a tiring flight.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in a legal gray zone at Acapulco Airport. While you might technically be able to request an Uber, drivers are often not permitted to pick up passengers directly at the terminal curb due to disputes with the local taxi union. If you manage to secure a ride, the driver may ask you to walk to the airport's main entrance or meet in the parking lot to avoid conflict. For a completely stress-free arrival, it's far easier to book a rental car or use the officially sanctioned airport taxi service.

The single terminal at ACA houses several reputable car rental companies in the arrivals hall. You will typically find counters for Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise/National, Alamo, and local Mexican firms like Mex Rent a Car and America Car Rental. The counters are all lined up next to one another directly in front of the baggage claim exit. While you can walk up, booking in advance through a comparison site is highly recommended during the December-to-April high season, as vehicle availability can be limited and walk-up rates tend to be significantly higher.

The car rental counters are not in a remote center; they are located directly inside the terminal on the ground floor of the arrivals hall. After you exit the secured customs and baggage claim area, you will see the row of rental company desks immediately to your left and right. The actual vehicle pickup lot is a short walking distance away, just across the main terminal access road. You do not need a shuttle bus to reach the cars. After completing the paperwork at the counter, an agent will guide you outside to the designated parking area to inspect and collect your vehicle.

Booking in advance is strongly recommended, not just for price benefits but to guarantee vehicle availability. During peak travel periods like Christmas, New Year's, and Semana Santa, the local fleet can sell out completely, leaving walk-up travelers stranded without a car. Pre-booking also ensures you secure an automatic transmission vehicle, which is not always guaranteed at smaller stations if you arrive without a reservation. Using a comparison website to lock in a fully inclusive rate also protects you from unexpected high-pressure insurance add-ons at the counter.

To rent a car at ACA, you must present a valid driver's license from your country of residence; a standard license from the US, Canada, or the EU is fully accepted. You are also required to show a valid passport and a physical credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. The credit card must have enough available balance to cover the deductible block, which commonly ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the car category. Debit cards are rarely accepted unless accompanied by proof of full coverage insurance.

The standard minimum age to rent at ACA is 21 years old, but this varies by supplier and vehicle class. Most major international chains require drivers to be at least 25 years old to waive a 'young driver surcharge' and rent larger vehicles like SUVs or minivans. If you are between 21 and 24 years old, you will almost certainly pay a daily young renter fee, typically adding around $15 to $25 per day to your rental cost. You must have held your license for a minimum of one or two years, depending on the specific company's policy.

Parking rates at ACA are variable, but travelers should budget approximately $2 to $3 per hour for short-term stays in the main lot directly facing the terminal. The daily maximum rate for long-term parking generally caps out around $15 to $20 per day. The lot is an open-air, fenced, and guarded area. Payment is collected at automated machines or a cashier booth upon exit. Always retain your entry ticket. If you plan to park for a week or longer, the daily cap makes it a reasonable alternative to a taxi, especially for those on driving trips.

Yes, the main parking lot at ACA serves as both short-term and long-term parking. There is no separate designated garage or remote economy lot. Since the spaces are open-air and situated directly across from the terminal, your vehicle will be exposed to the Acapulco sun. If you plan to leave your car for several days, a sunshade is strongly advised. The lot is staffed, but standard security precautions apply: do not leave valuables in plain sight when you park for extended trips.

Yes, curbside drop-off is permitted directly in front of the terminal's departure level. The access road runs along the upper level for departures and the lower level for arrivals. You can pull up, unload your passengers and luggage, and send them on their way into the check-in hall. However, waiting with your vehicle is strictly not allowed; you cannot leave the car unattended. If you need to park and walk inside with your family or friends, you must move the car to the paid parking lot immediately after unloading.

Acapulco Airport provides free WiFi connectivity for all passengers. The network is usually sponsored and can be found under names like 'GAP Free WiFi' or similar, a reference to Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, which operates the airport. The free tier typically offers up to 60 minutes of access, sometimes with a timer that resets after a period. After landing, you simply select the network, accept the terms of use, and perhaps watch a brief advertisement to connect. The signal is strongest in the gate area and the food court.

Yes, ACA features a VIP lounge accessible to passengers after clearing security. The lounge is a quiet space offering comfortable seating, workstations, light snacks, beverages, and a selection of newspapers. Access is generally available to travelers flying in premium cabins, those with Priority Pass memberships, or passengers willing to pay a walk-up day rate of approximately $25 to $35. It is a useful sanctuary during the hot summer months when the boarding gates can feel crowded, providing a calm environment to wait for your flight.

For domestic flights within Mexico, arriving at ACA 1.5 to 2 hours before departure is the standard recommendation. For international flights to the US or Canada, you should arrive 2.5 to 3 hours early. While ACA is a single-terminal, efficient airport, the check-in counters can get swamped during the weekly peak periods when multiple Mexico City flights leave at the same time. If you need to return a rental car, add an extra 15 to 20 minutes to complete the walk-around inspection and walk to the terminal.

Yes, both services are available in the public arrivals hall. Several bank ATMs dispense Mexican pesos, and many of these machines also accommodate US dollar withdrawals. Exchange houses are located near the customs exit, offering competitive rates for converting US dollars and other major currencies into pesos. You might not get the same exchange rate as a downtown bank, but it is sufficient for your immediate taxi fare or snacks. Airport vendors and taxis generally prefer cash payments in pesos, though some accept dollars at a less favorable rate.

Dining options at ACA are casual and focused on quick service. You will find a couple of national chain coffee shops and fast-food outlets selling tortas, burritos, and sandwiches. There is also a bar-style restaurant inside the departure lounge serving Mexican beers, margaritas, and basic hot meals like enchiladas or fajitas. Note that grab-and-go food options are more limited airside, so if you want a hot, sit-down meal before a long flight, it is often better to eat at a restaurant on the landside main level before passing through security.

Yes, Acapulco Airport has a standard 'Duty Free' store located in the international departures area, past the security checkpoint. Here, departing passengers can browse and purchase liquor, perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco, and local handicrafts without the inclusion of local market taxes. The store accepts both Mexican pesos and US dollars. While the selection is smaller than what you would find in Mexico City's hub, it is a convenient place to spend leftover pesos on fine tequila, mezcal, or premium chocolate before boarding your flight home.

Yes, ACA complies with Mexican accessibility standards. The terminal features wheelchair-accessible ramps, dedicated elevators connecting the arrivals and departure floors, and accessible public restrooms. Airlines operating at the airport also provide aisle wheelchair assistance for boarding and connecting with aircraft, though this specific service must be requested directly from your airline at least 48 hours before departure. The parking lot includes clearly marked handicapped parking spots directly adjacent to the terminal entrance.
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