Comprehensive Guide to Airports in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is an easy tropical destination to reach from most points in the continental United States, and for Americans, no passport is required. The main island encompasses just over 3,500 square miles, making it the smallest of the Greater Antilles.

If you’re planning to travel to Puerto Rico, it’s beneficial to understand your options before deciding on the airport for your arrival. Most travelers from the U.S. mainland typically fly into the capital city, San Juan, though several other smaller airports across the island also offer commercial air access.

Below is an informative list of several airports in Puerto Rico, with essential details for your air travel plans.

Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, San Juan

Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, located in San Juan, is the busiest airport in the Caribbean and serves as a crucial hub for American Airlines. It’s the primary gateway for flights to many other Caribbean islands, with approximately 4 million passengers passing through annually, making it an ideal choice for visitors flying into Puerto Rico.

Rafael Hernandez Airport, Aguadilla

This former military base now serves the city of Aguadilla on Puerto Rico’s northwest coast, acting as a primary gateway to the emerging Porta del Sol tourist district. It is the second-largest airport in Puerto Rico offering direct flights from major cities like New York, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the western coast.

Mercedita International Airport, Ponce

Mercedita serves as the main airport for Ponce, the second-largest city in Puerto Rico. It offers direct flights from New York and Orlando on JetBlue Airways, making it a convenient option for travelers heading to the south coastal area of the island.

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport, Vieques

This airport serves the popular tourist destination of Vieques, known for its beautiful beaches and bioluminescent bays. Situated off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, it connects visitors to the stunning landscapes and attractions that Vieques has to offer.

Eugenio Maria De Hostos Airport, Mayaguez

Located in Mayaguez on Puerto Rico’s central west coast, Eugenio Maria De Hostos Airport gives travelers access to the Rincon tourism area, known for its beautiful beaches. Although it offers commercial services, this airport is not considered a primary air travel hub.

Jose Aponte de la Torre Airport, Ceiba

This airport, which opened in November 2008, is near Ceiba and is located at the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Base on Puerto Rico’s east coast. Interestingly, it’s also a testing ground for the Google Loon project aimed at providing internet service via hot air balloons.

Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci (Isla Grande), San Juan

Isla Grande serves as a secondary airport close to downtown San Juan, utilized by regional and commuter airlines. It acts as an alternative to the busier Luis Munoz Marin Airport, which became Puerto Rico’s largest airport in 1954.

Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport, Culebra

This single-runway airport on the island of Culebra is not designed for international flights but offers commercial flights connecting to San Juan. However, the airport’s approach is considered challenging due to mountainous terrain, making it suitable primarily for smaller propeller airplanes.