Access to airports, available parking, and trip support can vary dramatically in each country, especially during peak season. During the Northern Hemisphere winter this means traveling by private jet to Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean via private jet during December, January, and February.
With the help of our trip support team, we have created a deep dive into major private aviation hotspots’ various restrictions and services to enable crews and passengers to anticipate airport restrictions, secure parking, and receive the needed trip support for a seamless travel experience.
Costa Rica: Airport restrictions, parking and trip support services
San Jose Airport – Limited parking and 24-hour Service
During the holiday season, many travelers are expected at Costa Rica’s central private aviation hub. San Jose’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (MROC) faces several airport restrictions and limitations in terms of parking. For private jet travel, crews need to know the following details:
Airport restrictions: Parking spots are very limited on peak dates and crews should rely on trip support teams for the latest guidelines.
Operating hours: The MROC offers 24/7 services; the private jet can arrive and depart at any time.
PPR and slot requirements: A private jet does not require a landing permit; however, parking authorization is mandatory.
Fuel availability: There is no fuel shortage, although it is recommended that the crew members arrive at the airport at least an hour before flight departure to account for the possibility of having to refuel during the layover.
Parking and hangar availability: The airport can accommodate parking, but no hangar space is available.
Permits and lead time requirements: No country landing permit is required for General Aviation flights.
Premium hotel accommodation: The recommended hotels near MROC are Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela and Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall – both 5 minutes from the airport – and Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen at 20 minutes.
Executive ground transportation: Private transportation services are available for crew and passengers.
Catering: High-End Newrest is the primary catering company. The Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen can arrange luxury catering for passengers.
Liberia Airport (MRLB): Limited short turnaround and no overnight parking
MRLB is another of the key destinations in Costa Rica. The limited number of aircraft parking and operations from December 22, 2024, to January 25, 2025, means that passengers will need to be aware of the following:
Airport restrictions: Overnight parking is not permitted, and turnarounds are only allowed for a maximum of two hours between 10:00 and 16:00.
Period of operation: 1200Z to 0300Z Costa Rica time.
PPR and slot: All movements are PPR and need advance authority for landing and parking.
Availability of fuel: Fuel is available, and no shortage has been reported.
Parking and hangar availability: The General Aviation ramp does have some reasonable parking available, but no hangar options exist.
Permissions and prior notice requirements: No country landing permit is required for General Aviation.
Catering and hotels: The Four Seasons Papagayo, Andaz Papagayo, Secrets Papagayo, and the JW Marriott Pinilla are some of the high-end options in the area.
Executive transport: RELAXURY S.A. can provide luxury transportation, which must be requested accordingly.
Sint Maarten: Slot restrictions and advance booking
During peak season, from December 15, 2024 – January 10, 2025, Sint Maarten is very slot restrictive. Due to the high number of private jets, slot reservations will be implemented based on the first-come, first-served logic, and early reservations are highly recommended to ensure that preferred arrival and departure times are secured.
Crews and travelers should also anticipate increased restrictions during peak hours, thus, being flexible with planning is imperative.
Mexico: Parking fee increases and airport restrictions
Many Mexican airports have implemented airport restrictions, increased fees, and special parking and trip support requirements that enhance private jet travel during holidays.
Ensenada Airport (MMES)
Operating hours: MMES has business hours of 16:00 01:00 UTC. Overtime is granted on a discretionary basis. Aircraft with a maximum mass of over 25,000 kg are restricted, and overnight parking does require PPR.
PPR and slot: Slots must be booked and coordinated beforehand for overnight aircraft.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A. Fuel delays may be expected since Government fuel provider (ASA) has top priority with commercial operations.
Cabo San Lucas Airport (MMSL)
Due to high volumes, handling and parking fees at Cabo San Lucas will increase by 30% and 25%, respectively, from November 20 to January 10. It is advisable to request any additional services beforehand to ensure availability.
Catering: Catering is available via the FBO, though third-party caterers incur an access fee unless the crew organizes it themselves.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A.
San Jose del Cabo Airport (MMSD)
Operating hours: 07:00 – 21:00 local time; overtime is not possible. In-flight catering can be ordered through FBO and is directly paid for unless requested by the crew.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A. Fuel delays may be expected since Government fuel provider (ASA) has top priority with commercial operations.
Hermosillo Airport (MMHO)
Due to the regular sport hunting passengers, Hermosillo Airport requires special permits for firearms and ammunition, which should be acquired in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A. Fuel delays may be expected since Government fuel provider (ASA) has top priority with commercial operations, especially in the mornings.
Del Norte Airport (MMAN)
Now under Mexican Navy administration, it requires advance coordination for vehicle access to ensure smooth pickups, as security checks have intensified.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A.
Manzanillo Airport (MMZO)
Manzanillo: Parking is very limited, and only aircraft with wingspans of more than 20 meters can be accommodated. Due to the limited availability of catering at MMZO, orders must be placed well in advance with local hotels.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A. Fuel delays may be expected since Government fuel provider (ASA) has top priority with commercial operations.
Toluca Airport (MMTO)
Fuel uplift delays in Toluca are commonly over one and a half hours. Due to the new activity of Popocatepetl Volcano, ICAO flight plans must be filed in advance to ensure approved routes.
Aviation fuel: Avgas 100/130, Jet-A. Fuel delays may be expected since Government fuel provider (ASA) has top priority with commercial operations.
The Bahamas: 24/7 operations and high advance bookings
Lynden Pindling International Airport (MYNN)
With 24/7 operations at MYNN, the Bahamas can accommodate private aviation needs without current restrictions; advance bookings are highly recommended. Key operational details include:
Operational hours: Customs and immigration will be on site from 07:00 to 11:00, with overtime available for an additional fee upon request.
Parking and hangar availability: Jet Nassau Ltd. offers both parking and hangar services.
Permissions: None are required for private flight Part 91. Permission is required for charter flight Part 135. The lead time for permission is 24-48 hours.
Premium hotel accommodation: Best rates for crew members are available with prior bookings.
Executive ground transportation: This can be done with the help of our trip support team.
High-end in-flight catering: Luxury and VIP catering arrangements are possible. Orders can be placed well in advance.
Barbados: High demand for services
Grantley Adams International Airport (TBPB)
Barbados is expected to record high private aviation traffic into the country this festive season. No airport slot restriction is in force in TBPB; however, arrangements are advised well in advance to avoid the anticipated demand.
Operating hours: The airport operates 24/7, so there is some flexibility with slot timing.
Parking and hangar: No hangar space is available, but parking can be confirmed according to the period being requested.
Ground handling and permits: Aircraft type is required for the quote. Permit Lead time: 72 hours
Premium hotel arrangements: Confirm well in advance.
Executive ground transport: Available upon request.
High-end catering: The Goddard Catering Group caters for VIPs and provides customized catering.
Dominican Republic: Very few restrictions with high availability of services
The Dominican Republic has good infrastructure for private jet operations with the main requirement being aircraft weight. Las Americas International Airport (MDSD) in Santo Domingo, and Punta Cana International Airport are the top terminals in the country for private jet operations (MDPC).
Weight restrictions: PPR will be required for aircraft above 30,000 pounds MTOW, and slots will be required above 70,000 pounds.
Parking and hangar: Hangar space available at La Isabela International Airport (MDJB), depending on aircraft size and availability.
Fuel and catering: No fuel shortages have been reported. Luxury catering is also supported, although several first-class hotels are located next to the airport.
Operational highlights
- Slot and parking requests – Ask well in advance: This is typically true for high-demand airports like Sint Maarten or destinations in Mexico.
- Coordinate with your trip support team: Local teams can secure alternative parking or additional services in Liberia and San Jose, Costa Rica, among other locations.
- Plan around operational hours: Note the hours of operation for each destination, especially at Mexican airports where limited hours may apply.
- High-end services: Coordinate in advance for hotel accommodation, executive ground transportation, and VIP catering services to ensure they will be available during peak travel times.
FAQs
1. What are the parking limitations for private aircraft in Costa Rica?
Both MROC and MRLB have limited parking. MROC permits parking, but it is mandatory to receive prior authorization. MRLB permits no overnight parking from December 22 to January 25. All turnarounds are restricted during peak hours, which are a maximum of two hours.
2. How shall I book a slot for my private jet in Sint Maarten in the high season?
Slots in Sint Maarten, from December 15 to January 10, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended that you book as early as possible to secure preferred arrival and departure times.
3. During peak season, Are there any fuel and catering restrictions in Mexico?
Fuel is available, although some delays can be expected, particularly at Toluca (MMTO). Airport catering varies, with some airports imposing restrictions and additional charges for third-party providers.
4. Is hangar space available for private jets in Dominican Republic?
Hangar space is available at La Isabela International Airport (MDJB), depending on aircraft size and availability.
5. Are there MTOW (Maximum Takeoff Weight) restrictions for private jets at Dominican Republic airports?
Yes, PPR will be required for aircraft above 30,000 pounds MTOW, and slots will be required above 70,000 pounds.
