Puerto Vallarta’s new airport terminal has reached another reported milestone, giving travelers a clearer timeline for one of the area’s largest infrastructure projects. Airport officials say the building is now 71 percent complete, with civil construction expected to finish before the end of 2026. The next phase will focus on specialized systems, certification, and a gradual transition to airlines during the winter high season.
Puerto Vallarta Airport Terminal Moves Closer to Opening
Puerto Vallarta’s new airport terminal is 71 percent complete, according to airport officials.
The progress report was given during a session of the airport’s consultative council. Omar Gildardo Torres Grajeda, administrator of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, said the figure was current as of May 19.
Officials said civil construction is expected to finish before the end of 2026. The next stage is scheduled for the first half of 2027, when work will focus on specialized systems, installation, and certification.
A gradual move into the new terminal
The airport plans to begin moving commercial airlines into the new terminal during the winter 2026-2027 high season. Officials described the process as gradual, rather than a single opening date.
The terminal is expected to add capacity for more than 6.5 million passengers. Earlier project details described the expansion as adding 74,000 square meters and eight contact gates.
For residents and frequent travelers, the timeline points to continued airport work through the rest of this year. The more visible change for passengers is likely to come as airlines begin shifting operations once construction and certification are complete.
Passenger traffic still recovering
The update came as the airport also reported signs of passenger recovery after declines earlier this year.
Officials said passenger movement fell in March and April after the February 22 disruption in Puerto Vallarta. They also said routes were not canceled and that the airport expects numbers to stabilize during the slower season.
Four new air routes are scheduled for June, according to the airport update. Officials said domestic routes now account for about 45 percent of available seats, giving the airport a more balanced mix between national and international service.
The terminal project remains one of the largest infrastructure works tied to Puerto Vallarta’s airport. The current schedule places the end of civil construction in 2026, with certification and operational transition work continuing into 2027.
