Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), also known as Quito International Airport, is in Tababela, about 18 km east of Quito. There is currently no regular nonstop flight from Quito to Cancun; below are the best connections, plus what to expect when you land.
Quick facts (checked October 2026)
- Codes: IATA UIO · ICAO SEQM
- Location: in Tababela, about 18 km east of Quito
- Terminals: 1 passenger terminal
- Traffic: about 4.3 million passengers (2022)
- Official website: www.aeropuertoquito.aero
- Distance to Cancun: 2,527 km (1,570 miles) in a straight line
- Nonstop to Cancun: No – one stop needed
Flights from Quito to Cancun
Nonstop Quito–Cancun flights launched in 2023 have since been suspended. Connect via Panama City (Copa), Bogotá (Avianca), Mexico City (Aeroméxico), San Salvador (Avianca) or Miami (American) – about 6–9 hours in total.
Whichever route you choose, check which terminal you will arrive at in Cancun on your boarding pass (Cancun Airport terminals).
Arriving at Cancun Airport
International arrivals clear immigration and customs in Cancun, which usually takes 30–60 minutes. After customs you walk through the “shark tank” of timeshare sellers – if you have booked a transfer, go straight outside to meet your driver. See Cancun Airport arrivals for what to expect step by step, and check your flight on the live arrivals board.
| From Cancun Airport to | Drive time | Private transfer from |
|---|---|---|
| Cancun Hotel Zone | 20–30 min | 44 USD per vehicle |
| Playa del Carmen | 45–60 min | 89 USD per vehicle |
| Tulum | about 1 h 45 min | 165 USD per vehicle |
Book your Cancun Airport transfer
About Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito International Airport)
Quito’s airport, operated by Quiport, replaced the old city-centre airport and is the main hub of LATAM Ecuador and Avianca Ecuador.
Quito to Cancun – FAQ
Is there a direct flight from Quito to Cancun?
No. You need one stop; see the connections above.
How long is the flight from Quito to Cancun?
With one connection, plan on the total travel time given above.
How far is Quito from Cancun?
About 2,527 km (1,570 miles) in a straight line.
How do I get from Cancun Airport to my hotel?
A private transfer is the easiest option: from 44 USD to the Hotel Zone, 89 USD to Playa del Carmen and 165 USD to Tulum per vehicle. See Cancun Airport transportation.