Mexico, Puerto Rico, Colombia: Airport Traffic Reveals Where Travelers Are Headed in 2025 and What It Means for Global Tourism

Published on February 25, 2025

The international airport industry has seen a subtle yet significant shift in passenger trends, with countries experiencing mixed results in the final quarter of 2024. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR), which operates airports in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Colombia, has released its latest data, revealing both declines and growth across its various markets.

While Puerto Rico and Colombia reported strong increases in passenger volume, Mexico saw a noticeable downturn. This fluctuation in air travel trends is likely to shape global travel patterns in 2025, affecting everything from tourism demand to airline route planning.

Mexico Sees a Decline in Passenger Volume

One of the more striking figures in ASUR’s report was an 8.0% drop in total passenger traffic in Mexico, which was driven by:

• A 7.5% decrease in international passenger arrivals.
• A more severe 8.6% decline in domestic travel within Mexico.

This downward trend in Mexican air travel may have multiple causes, from shifting tourism patterns to economic pressures affecting local travelers. Some experts believe that adjustments in airline pricing, changes in tourism demand, or even seasonal fluctuations may have played a role in the drop.

Despite this, Mexico remains a major global tourism hub, and its airport system, including the ever-popular Cancún International Airport, continues to serve millions of visitors annually. However, these numbers indicate that international travelers may be reconsidering their destinations, shifting their attention to other regions.

Puerto Rico: A Rising Star in Caribbean Travel

On the other hand, Puerto Rico experienced a 9.6% growth in passenger traffic, a positive signal for the island’s tourism economy. Two key factors contributed to this boost:

• International arrivals skyrocketed by 28.9%.
• Domestic travel saw a healthy 7.3% increase.

The increase in passenger volume suggests Puerto Rico is solidifying its position as a preferred destination for both Caribbean tourism and international travel. The island’s main gateway, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, has played a key role in handling this rising influx of visitors, particularly from the United States and Latin America.

This growth in Puerto Rico’s air traffic could lead to more airline partnerships, increased flight connectivity, and a stronger presence of luxury travel services in the Caribbean. For travelers, this means greater accessibility and potentially more competitive airfare prices as demand increases.

Colombia’s Rapidly Expanding Air Traffic

Colombia emerged as one of the most promising aviation markets in ASUR’s report, with a 14.1% year-over-year increase in total passenger volume. This is even more impressive when broken down further:

• International travel grew by 20.4%, reflecting Colombia’s increasing popularity among foreign tourists.
• Domestic travel within the country increased by 12.5%, showing strong local demand for air connectivity.

The country’s second-largest airport, José María Córdova International Airport in Rionegro, continues to be a crucial hub for both inbound and outbound travel. As Colombia strengthens its tourism industry, major airlines are likely to expand their route networks, adding more direct flights to key international destinations such as the United States, Europe, and other Latin American countries.

Financial Growth and What It Means for Travelers

Beyond passenger volume, ASUR’s financial performance highlights key indicators for the future of air travel in these markets. The company’s total revenue rose by 31.2% compared to the same period in 2023, while consolidated EBITDA increased by 22.5%.

More specifically:

• Commercial revenue per passenger increased by 9.4%, suggesting a rise in traveler spending at airports.
• ASUR’s cash position strengthened by 44.8%, indicating financial stability for future investments.

For travelers, these figures could translate into enhanced airport services, expanded airline options, and potential infrastructure improvements in ASUR-operated airports across Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Colombia.

Implications for International Tourism in 2025

Given the shifting trends in airport passenger traffic, several key takeaways emerge for global travelers:

1. Puerto Rico’s tourism boom may lead to more affordable flights and better connectivity from major U.S. cities.
2. Colombia’s rapid expansion in international arrivals suggests that the country is becoming a top travel destination for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts.
3. Mexico’s temporary dip in traffic does not indicate a long-term decline, but it does highlight the need for airlines and tourism boards to reassess their marketing strategies to attract international visitors.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Travelers?

ASUR’s performance in Q4 2024 and the full year paints a picture of an evolving global travel landscape. For travelers, this means new destinations gaining prominence, changes in airfare pricing, and shifting patterns in travel demand.

With Puerto Rico and Colombia leading the charge in passenger growth, travelers may soon see more options for flights, improved airport facilities, and a broader range of tourism experiences in these regions. Meanwhile, Mexico remains a critical hub, and its tourism industry is expected to rebound with strategic efforts to enhance visitor experiences.

As 2025 unfolds, the international travel industry will continue adapting to these trends, and passengers will be at the center of this transformation—benefiting from expanding options, improved services, and new adventures on the horizon.