Tomatlán, Jalisco, Mexico – The long-anticipated Chalacatepec airport has officially opened in Tomatlán, Jalisco, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development.
Governor Enrique Alfaro Ramírez inaugurated the facility by making the first landing on its newly reconstructed runway, a project completed at a cost of 102 million pesos. Upgrades include a new runway surface, electricity installation, and a perimeter security system, all designed to meet modern aviation standards.
This airport is set to transform the Costa Alegre, a stretch of coastline famed for its unspoiled beaches and upscale retreats like Careyes and Cuixmala. Spanning from Barra de Navidad to Playa Quemada, the region also features picturesque destinations such as Melaque, Tenacatita, and Chemala. Previously described as “a diamond in the rough,” Costa Alegre now stands poised to emerge as a premier Pacific tourism hotspot.
Although the airport is operational, it currently does not handle commercial flights. Negotiations with the federal government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, are underway to secure a concession allowing Chalacatepec to become Jalisco’s third international airport, joining Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.
“This project will change the future of Costa Alegre,” Governor Alfaro Ramírez declared. “It ensures that the entire development plan for this region remains viable for generations to come.”
David Zamora, Jalisco’s Secretary of Infrastructure and Public Works, provided further details on the extensive renovations, which included resurfacing the runway with a fresh asphalt layer, sealing taxiways, and modernizing the terminal building.
The Chalacatepec airport is a bold step toward enhancing connectivity, supporting economic growth, and unlocking the vast tourism potential of Costa Alegre.
We Need Your Support: Other local news outlets have retreated behind paywalls. At Banderas News, we believe journalism should be free for everyone. Would you help us provide essential information to our readers at no cost? We can’t do it without you. Your contribution helps us sustain and grow.