Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport

Welcome to Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL) — the main aerial gateway to the second-largest city in Mexico and the entire state of Jalisco. This is not merely a transit hub, but the third busiest airport in the country, following only Mexico City and Cancun. Opened in 1966, the airport serves as a vital centre for both domestic and international flights, connecting travellers with cities across Mexico, the USA, and Canada. Continuous modernisation and expansion make it a convenient and modern starting point for exploring the cultural heart of Mexico — the city of Guadalajara.

Airport Features and Benefits

Guadalajara Airport consists of two terminals. Terminal 1 handles the majority of both domestic and international flights, while Terminal 2 is used primarily for certain low-cost airlines. For passenger convenience, everything necessary is available here: complimentary Wi-Fi, numerous shops (including Duty Free), cafes and restaurants to suit every taste, as well as VIP lounges for a comfortable wait before your flight. Travellers can easily rent a car directly within the terminal building — services are offered by companies such as Hertz, Budget, Dollar, and others. You can reach the city centre by taxi, popular ride-hailing services like Uber, or by scheduled bus, making the trip to Guadalajara quick and convenient.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Don Miguel Hidalgo International Airport Guadalajara (GDL).

• Official Website: The primary source of up-to-date information is the website of the operating company, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP). We recommend visiting the section dedicated to Guadalajara Airport for data on flights, services, and regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can contact the number: +52 (33) 3688 5248.
• Airport Address: Carretera Guadalajara – Chapala Km 17.5, C.P. 45659, Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, Jalisco, Mexico.
• Email: A direct email address for general public enquiries is usually not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the contact forms on the official website.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on major social networks, such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), where you can follow the latest news and operational updates.
• Lost and Found Information: If your belongings were lost within the airport terminal, contact the Lost and Found office (Objetos Olvidados). If the issue concerns luggage checked in for a flight, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and passenger assistance, the main airport information desk phone number is used.

Getting to Don Miguel Hidalgo International Airport (GDL) from the centre of Guadalajara can be done in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and amount of luggage. The airport is located approximately 17 kilometres south of the historic centre, and the journey usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, although this time can increase significantly during peak hours.

Public Transport is the most economical option. City buses run from the central bus station (Central Vieja) to the airport. Also popular is the shuttle bus from Viva Aerobus, which connects the airport with several points in the city. The cost of the bus fare is minimal, but it is worth noting that the journey may not be very comfortable with a large number of suitcases and takes longer due to stops.

Taxis and Transfers offer the optimal balance of speed and comfort. It is safest to use official taxis, tickets for which can be purchased at special counters inside the arrival terminal. The trip cost is fixed and depends on the destination zone in the city. Also popular in Mexico are ride-hailing app services, such as Uber or DiDi, which often offer competitive prices. This is a convenient way to reach your destination without unnecessary hassle.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for travellers planning to actively move around the state of Jalisco and its surroundings. Offices of all major international and local rental companies are present at Guadalajara Airport. It is recommended to book a car online in advance to secure the best rates and guarantee the availability of a vehicle in your desired class.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, convenient parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking with different rates. The parking area is located in immediate proximity to the terminals, making its use very convenient.

Don Miguel Hidalgo International Airport Guadalajara (GDL) has a simple and clear structure consisting of two main terminals. Understanding their purpose correctly will help you navigate easily upon arrival and save time before departure.

Terminal 1 is the main and largest building of the airport. It handles the vast majority of domestic and international flights. The terminal structure is classic: the Arrivals area (Llegadas) with baggage claim and customs control is on the lower floor, while the Departures area (Salidas) with check-in counters and security checkpoints is on the upper floor. Inside, Terminal 1 is divided into several halls (Concourses) for passenger convenience, where boarding gates for domestic and international destinations are located. All main services are concentrated here: Duty-Free shops, diverse restaurants and cafes, currency exchange points, ATMs, and VIP lounges.

Terminal 2 is significantly smaller and simpler in structure. It is used primarily by the budget airline Viva Aerobus for operating domestic flights. This terminal is designed for quick and efficient passenger processing, so there are fewer amenities and retail outlets here. Its main advantage is the expedited passage of all pre-flight formalities.

The terminals are located in close proximity to each other, and the transfer between them can be made on foot in approximately 5-10 minutes. For passengers with a large amount of luggage or limited mobility, a free shuttle operates. Regarding time, allow a standard 2 hours for domestic flights and at least 3 hours for international ones, especially during peak hours, as queues for check-in and security can be significant.

• Always check in advance which terminal your airline operates from. Most major carriers use Terminal 1.
• Follow the signs — they are duplicated in English and are intuitive.
• If you arrived at Terminal 1, go down to the lower level to exit to the city and taxi stand. If departing, go up to the upper level.
• To avoid queues, use online check-in for your flight if your carrier provides this option.

The history of Don Miguel Hidalgo International Airport is inextricably linked with the development of Guadalajara as one of the most important economic and cultural centres of Mexico. The airport was officially opened in 1966, replacing the old city airfield, which could no longer cope with the growing volume of traffic. Initially, it was designed with a large margin of capacity to serve both domestic and international flights, laying the foundation for future growth.

A key moment in the airport's recent history was its privatisation in the late 1990s when it came under the management of the private operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP). This decision gave a powerful impetus to large-scale modernisation and expansion. In subsequent years, comprehensive terminal renovations were carried out, waiting areas were updated, and new shops and restaurants were opened, which significantly increased the level of comfort for travellers.

One of the notable events where the airport demonstrated its capabilities was the 2011 Pan American Games held in Guadalajara. The airport successfully managed the reception of thousands of athletes, official delegations, and fans from all over the American continent. Development did not stop there: later, a second runway was built, and projects for further terminal expansion were launched to match the status of one of the busiest airports in the country.

Interesting fact: the airport bears the name of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a priest and key figure in the Mexican War of Independence, who is revered in the country as the "Father of the Nation". Today, Guadalajara Airport not only consistently ranks among the top three in Mexico by passenger traffic but is also one of the most important air cargo hubs in Latin America, underscoring its strategic importance for the region.

Don Miguel Hidalgo International Airport Guadalajara offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable and pleasant journey. While waiting for your flight, you can visit numerous cafes and restaurants offering both international cuisine and popular fast food, as well as authentic Mexican delicacies. In Duty Free shops and souvenir stalls, you can purchase gifts, local handicrafts, and, of course, the famous tequila.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a quieter atmosphere, several VIP lounges operate at the airport. They offer guests comfortable seating, snacks, beverages, and work zones. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals, as well as numerous charging stations for electronic devices, allowing you to stay connected at all times.

Financial matters can be easily resolved at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points (casas de cambio) are at your service. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical point operates around the clock in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. There are mother and child rooms for infant care. The terminals are equipped with ramps, elevators, and special restrooms, and airport and airline staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance and accompaniment.

For travellers with an early departure or a long layover, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, which can be reached on foot or by free shuttle. Business travellers can utilise the services of business centres and conference rooms to hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment.

At Don Miguel Hidalgo International Airport Guadalajara (GDL), passengers will find diverse dining options capable of satisfying any taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full dinner, there is plenty to choose from.

Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the main terminal (Terminal 1), in the departure zone after passing security control (airside). Here you will find food courts with popular international chains like Starbucks, Carl's Jr., and Subway, as well as restaurants with à la carte service. In the public access zone before control (landside) and in the arrivals hall, the selection is more modest, but you can always find a coffee shop or a snack store.

Being in the heart of Jalisco, be sure to try local cuisine. Several establishments offer authentic Mexican dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, and guacamole. For those interested, bars are available where you can sample various types of tequila and mezcal — the famous beverages of this region. This is a great way to get acquainted with the culture of Mexico without leaving the airport.

Options are also available for passengers with special dietary needs. Many cafes can prepare vegetarian dishes, such as salads or tacos with vegetables and beans. Vegan options may be more limited, but fresh fruits and guacamole are widely available. We recommend checking the ingredients with the staff before ordering. Specialised Halal or gluten-free menus are rare.

Opening hours of establishments are adapted to flight schedules. Major fast-food chains and coffee shops are usually open from early morning until late evening, and some points may operate around the clock. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city: be prepared to pay from 8-10 USD for coffee and pastries, and from 20-30 USD per person for a full meal in a restaurant.

To ensure your journey through Guadalajara Airport goes smoothly, make use of our tips. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights and 2 hours for domestic ones. During peak seasons and holidays, terminals can be busy, so an extra time buffer is advisable.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your phone. When passing through security control, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy to speed up the process. Security staff may conduct random additional checks.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer you magnificent views of the landscapes of Mexico, especially on approach to the city, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily. If comfort is important to you, use specialised websites to select the best seats on your flight.

Pack all essentials in your hand luggage: documents, money, medication, a portable charger, and valuable electronics. Remember the rules for carrying liquids — no more than 100 ml per container, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, such as scissors or penknives, are prohibited. We also advise taking a light jacket or shawl, as it can be cool in the aircraft cabin and terminals.

If you have a transfer in Guadalajara from an international flight to a domestic one, note an important feature. You will need to pass through passport and customs control in Guadalajara, collect your luggage, and then check it in again for the next flight at your airline's counter. Allocate sufficient time for this when planning your connection.

Customs control in Mexico often operates on a "traffic light" system. After collecting your luggage, you press a button: a green light means you can pass without inspection, while a red light means your luggage will be inspected by a customs officer. This is a random process, so be prepared for either option.

To save money, book a taxi or transfer from the airport online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a car on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher, so you might want to bring a small snack with you. Free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal area.

In case of flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. There are many cafes, restaurants, and shops in the airport where you can spend time while waiting for your flight.