SJU Airport: Your Gateway to Puerto Rico

I landed at San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport on a humid afternoon in March, exhausted from a connection in Miami but immediately energized by the warm air and palm trees visible through the terminal windows. SJU has that effect on people – it’s the threshold between mainland routine and Caribbean possibility, and even the airport itself carries that transitional energy.

History and Development

The airport opened in 1955 and carries the name of Puerto Rico’s first democratically elected governor. Since then, SJU has expanded repeatedly to handle increasing traffic – it’s now the busiest airport in the Caribbean, serving as the primary gateway not just to Puerto Rico but to connections throughout the region.

Terminals

Probably should have led with this, honestly: SJU has four terminals, and figuring out which one you need matters for planning your arrival or departure.

• Terminal A: JetBlue’s domain – if you’re flying Blue, you’re probably here
• Terminal B: American Airlines and several other carriers
• Terminal C: Mix of domestic and international flights
• Terminal D: The international terminal for non-U.S. destinations

The terminals connect airside after security, so if you need to move between them, you won’t have to clear security again. But leave time – it’s not a small airport.

Airlines and Destinations

Major U.S. carriers serve SJU heavily. American, JetBlue, Southwest, United, and Delta all operate multiple daily flights. Nonstop service connects to most major mainland hubs – New York, Miami, Orlando, Atlanta, Dallas, and more. International service includes flights to Madrid, Panama City, and various Caribbean islands.

That’s what makes SJU endearing to travelers – it’s genuinely well-connected for an island destination. You can usually find reasonable fares and convenient schedules.

Transportation to and from the Airport

Getting from SJU to your actual destination offers several options:

• Taxis: Available outside each terminal with regulated rates to common destinations
• Rental Cars: All the major agencies operate on-site – Avis, Budget, Hertz, and others
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft both work in San Juan
• Public Buses: The AMA bus service connects to San Juan for those on tight budgets

If you’re staying in the Condado or Old San Juan areas, taxis or ride-shares are straightforward. If you’re exploring the island, rent a car – public transit outside San Juan is limited.

Parking

For those dropping off or picking up, short-term parking sits close to the terminals. Long-term parking requires a shuttle but costs less. Valet service exists for those willing to pay for convenience. Standard airport parking advice applies: check rates online before arriving, and leave extra time if using remote lots.

Amenities and Services

SJU offers the usual airport amenities – restaurants, shops, duty-free stores, and lounges. The food options include local Puerto Rican cuisine alongside the standard airport chains. WiFi is free throughout the facility. Lounges are available for Priority Pass holders and premium cabin passengers.

The shopping includes both tourist souvenirs and higher-end retail. Duty-free matters less than it once did, but alcohol and tobacco prices can still justify a stop for travelers heading home.

Security and Customs

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so flights from the mainland are domestic – no passport required for U.S. citizens, no customs to clear. International arrivals go through standard CBP processing. TSA procedures follow mainland standards.

Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures. Security lines can be unpredictable, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Check your terminal before arriving – the terminals are distinct buildings
• Download airline apps for mobile boarding passes
• Keep important documents accessible for any immigration processing
• Stay hydrated – the humidity hits immediately upon exiting the aircraft
• Confirm rental car reservations in advance during busy periods

Future Developments

The airport continues to expand and modernize to handle growing traffic. Infrastructure improvements aim to reduce congestion and improve passenger experience. Puerto Rico’s tourism recovery has driven increased demand, and SJU is working to keep pace.

For most visitors, SJU represents the first and last impression of Puerto Rico. The airport staff seem to understand this – there’s a welcoming energy that sets the tone for the island experience ahead.

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