La Romana International Airport
Gateway to Casa de Campo, Bayahíbe, and the southeastern coast
La Romana International Airport
La Romana International Airport (IATA: LRM, ICAO: MDLR) is a small international airport serving the La Romana province on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Located approximately 7 kilometers east of La Romana city, the airport provides convenient access to the luxury resort area of Casa de Campo, Bayahibe, and the resort-island of Isla Saona.
While smaller than SDQ and PUJ, LRM plays an important role for travelers heading to the La Romana area, saving them the 1.5-hour drive from Punta Cana or the 2-hour drive from Santo Domingo. The airport handles a mix of scheduled commercial flights and private aviation, with Casa de Campo being a major draw for affluent travelers.
The airport has a compact, efficient design and offers a more intimate arrival experience compared to the larger Dominican airports.
La Romana Airport has a single, small terminal building that serves all flights. The layout is straightforward:
- Departures area: Check-in counters, a small waiting area with basic amenities, security screening, and a modest duty-free section before the gates.
- Arrivals area: Immigration counters, a single baggage carousel, customs inspection, and an arrivals hall with car rental and transfer services.
The terminal is small enough that you can navigate the entire facility in just a few minutes. There are a limited number of gates, and aircraft are usually accessed via outdoor walkways or stairs rather than jet bridges.
A separate general aviation area serves the private jets and charters associated with Casa de Campo and other luxury resorts.
Given the airport’s small size, the check-in and security process is typically fast and hassle-free.
- Check-in: Counters open approximately 2.5–3 hours before international flights. With limited flights, lines are generally short.
- Security: A single screening area with standard international procedures. Wait times are usually minimal, often under 10 minutes.
- Online check-in: Available for most airlines and recommended to streamline the process further.
Recommended arrival: 2.5 hours before international flights.
LRM is conveniently close to La Romana’s major resorts and attractions.
Distances & Travel Times
- Casa de Campo resort: 10 km, approximately 10–15 minutes
- La Romana city center: 7 km, approximately 10 minutes
- Bayahibe: 25 km, approximately 25–30 minutes
- Dominicus Beach: 28 km, approximately 30 minutes
- Punta Cana resorts: 80 km, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
- Santo Domingo: 130 km, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Transportation Options
- Resort transfers: Casa de Campo and Bayahibe resorts typically arrange airport transfers for their guests.
- Taxis: Available outside the terminal with fixed pricing.
- Car rental: Agencies available at the airport, useful for exploring the southeastern coast.
- Private transfers: Can be pre-booked online for a more comfortable experience.
As a smaller airport, LRM offers essential but limited facilities:
- VIP Lounge: A small lounge is available in the departure area with refreshments and comfortable seating.
- Food & beverage: Limited options — a small café or snack bar in the departure area. It is advisable to eat before arriving at the airport.
- Duty-free: A small duty-free shop with Dominican rum, cigars, and souvenirs.
- Wi-Fi: Available but speeds may be limited.
- ATMs: At least one ATM in the arrivals area.
Don’t expect the same range of shops, restaurants, and services found at PUJ or SDQ. The airport is designed for efficiency rather than extended stays.
LRM has a limited but useful route network, primarily connecting to the US East Coast.
- JetBlue — New York (JFK)
- American Airlines — Miami (seasonal)
Flight frequencies vary by season, with more options available during the winter high season (December through April). Charter flights from Canada and Europe also operate during peak periods.
For travelers who cannot find direct flights to LRM, Punta Cana (PUJ) is the next closest option at about 80 km. Some visitors also fly into Santo Domingo (SDQ) and drive or arrange a transfer.
Tips for making the most of La Romana Airport:
- Consider flying into LRM if staying at Casa de Campo or Bayahibe. The proximity saves 1–2 hours of driving compared to PUJ or SDQ.
- Bring food and entertainment. The airport has minimal dining and shopping options. Bring snacks and downloaded entertainment for any wait times.
- Check flight availability early. With limited scheduled service, flights fill up fast, especially during peak season. Book well in advance.
- PUJ is a backup option. If flights to LRM are sold out or too expensive, Punta Cana airport is a viable alternative with a manageable drive.
- Coordinate with your resort. Many La Romana area resorts can arrange seamless transfers from either LRM or PUJ.
- Don’t forget the E-Ticket. The electronic entry form is required at all Dominican airports, including smaller ones like LRM.
Complete your free E-Ticket
Every traveler must submit the Dominican Republic E-Ticket for both arrival and departure. It is free and takes a few minutes. Read the step-by-step E-Ticket & entry requirements guide.
Airlines
Air Canada Rouge
RVAmerican Eagle
MQArajet
DMJetBlue Airways
B6Getting to & from the airport
private_transfer
$25-40 USD to Casa de Campo, $40-60 USD to BayahibePre-booked private car or SUV transfer with a professional driver. A popular choice for guests heading to luxury villas or for those wanting direct, hassle-free transport.
rental_car
$35-75 USD per day depending on vehicle typeA small selection of car rental agencies operate at La Romana airport. Useful for day trips to Saona Island excursion points, Altos de Chavón, or exploring the eastern coast.
shuttle
Complimentary with resort booking; $10-20 USD per person for shared shuttlesCasa de Campo and many Bayahibe and Dominicus resorts provide complimentary airport transfers for their guests. Shared shuttle services are also available to major resort areas.
taxi
$15-25 USD to Casa de Campo/La Romana, $30-45 USD to BayahibeOfficial taxi service from La Romana International Airport. Taxis provide fixed-rate transfers to Casa de Campo, Bayahibe, Dominicus, and La Romana city.
Frequently asked questions
How far is La Romana Airport from Casa de Campo resort?
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La Romana International Airport is extremely close to Casa de Campo, just about 5 km (3 miles) away, making it a 10-minute drive. The resort typically provides complimentary transfers for guests. The nearby town of La Romana is about 8 km from the airport, and Bayahíbe, a popular beach and diving destination, is roughly 25 km (16 miles) to the east, approximately a 30-minute drive.
What facilities are available at La Romana Airport?
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La Romana Airport is a small, privately managed facility. It has basic amenities including a small duty-free shop, a snack bar, restrooms, and a VIP lounge. There are limited currency exchange options and one or two ATMs. Given the small size of the terminal, services are minimal compared to larger airports. It is advisable to handle most of your shopping and currency needs at your resort or in town.
Which airlines fly into La Romana Airport?
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La Romana Airport primarily handles seasonal charter flights and some scheduled service from the US, Canada, and Europe. Airlines that have operated here include Air Canada Rouge, WestJet, and various European charter carriers. Flight availability varies significantly by season, with more options during the winter high season (November through April). Many visitors to the La Romana area also fly into Punta Cana or Santo Domingo and transfer by ground.
Is it better to fly into La Romana or Punta Cana for the La Romana area?
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If a direct flight to La Romana is available from your origin city, it is the most convenient option since the airport is minutes from major resorts. However, Punta Cana Airport has far more flight options and is only about 60-90 minutes by car from La Romana and Bayahíbe. Santo Domingo is another option at roughly 1.5-2 hours by car. Compare flight prices and transfer costs to determine the best value for your trip.
Can I get a taxi or arrange transportation at La Romana Airport?
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Taxis are available outside the terminal, though the selection is limited compared to larger airports. Most guests at Casa de Campo or nearby resorts arrange transfers in advance through their hotel. If you have not pre-arranged transport, airport staff can help you find a taxi. Expect to pay around $20-30 USD for the ride to La Romana town or Bayahíbe. Ride-hailing apps have limited coverage in this area.
