Las Américas International Airport

Check-in counters at SDQ are located on the upper level of the terminal. Most airlines open their counters 3 hours before departure for international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights.

Check-In Tips

• Online check-in: Most major airlines offer online check-in 24 hours before departure. This can significantly reduce wait times at the airport.
• Self-service kiosks: Several airlines have self-service kiosk stations near the check-in area for quick boarding pass printing.
• Baggage drop: If you have checked luggage, proceed to the designated baggage drop counter after obtaining your boarding pass.

Security Screening

After check-in, proceed to the security screening area. Standard TSA-style procedures apply. Remove laptops, liquids (in containers of 100ml or less in a clear plastic bag), belts, and shoes if requested. Lines can be long during peak hours (early morning and late evening), so allow at least 30-45 minutes for security.

Recommended arrival: 3 hours before international flights, 2 hours before domestic flights.

All international passengers arriving at SDQ must pass through immigration and customs control.

Arrival Procedures

• E-Ticket: All travelers must complete the Dominican Republic electronic entry and exit form (E-Ticket) at eticket.migracion.gob.do within 72 hours before arrival. This generates a QR code you must present at immigration.
• Immigration: Present your passport, E-Ticket QR code, and return ticket if requested. Citizens of most countries receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival. US, Canadian, and EU citizens do not need a separate visa.
• Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage from the designated carousel displayed on the arrivals board.
• Customs: Proceed through the customs area. You may be asked to pass through a random inspection (red/green light system). Declare any items exceeding duty-free allowances.

Departure Procedures

When departing, complete the departure section of the E-Ticket form. Proceed through emigration control where your passport will be stamped. There is no departure tax to pay separately as it is included in your airline ticket.

Las Américas airport is well connected to Santo Domingo and surrounding resort areas via the Las Américas Highway (Autopista Las Américas).

Distances & Travel Times

• Santo Domingo (Colonial Zone): 22 km, approximately 25-40 minutes depending on traffic
• Boca Chica: 8 km, approximately 10-15 minutes
• Juan Dolio: 35 km, approximately 30-40 minutes
• San Pedro de Macorís: 50 km, approximately 45 minutes

Transportation Options

• Taxis: Official airport taxis are available outside the arrivals area. Fares are fixed and displayed on a board. Expect to pay around $40-50 USD to the Colonial Zone.
• Ride-hailing: Uber and InDriver operate in the area. Pickup is from the departures level.
• Private transfers: Many hotels and resorts offer pre-arranged airport transfers. This is often the most convenient option.
• Car rental: Major rental companies including Avis, Hertz, Budget, and National have desks in the arrivals hall and car lots adjacent to the terminal.
• Public buses: Limited public bus service is available from the highway near the airport, but this is not recommended for tourists with luggage.

SDQ offers a range of services and amenities for travelers:

Lounges

• VIP Lounge: Available in the international departures area. Access can be purchased or is included with certain airline tickets and credit cards. Offers complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.

Food & Beverage

• Food court with local Dominican cuisine and international fast food options
• Coffee shops and grab-and-go counters in both the landside and airside areas
• Several bars offering tropical cocktails and local Presidente beer

Shopping

• Duty-free shops selling rum, cigars, chocolate, and perfumes
• Souvenir shops with Dominican crafts, larimar jewelry, and amber
• Convenience stores for last-minute travel essentials

Services

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, though speeds can be inconsistent during peak hours.
• ATMs: Multiple ATMs are located in both the arrivals and departures areas, dispensing Dominican pesos and US dollars.
• Currency exchange: Exchange counters are available in the arrivals hall. Airport rates are typically less favorable than city rates.
• Charging stations: Power outlets and USB charging stations are available near gate areas.

Las Américas is served by numerous international airlines connecting Santo Domingo with destinations across the Americas and Europe.

Major Airlines

• Arajet (hub) — Low-cost carrier with routes to Miami, Bogotá, Medellín, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Toronto, and numerous Caribbean and Central American destinations
• JetBlue — New York (JFK), Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando
• American Airlines — Miami, New York (JFK), Charlotte, Philadelphia
• Delta Air Lines — Atlanta, New York (JFK)
• United Airlines — Newark, Houston
• Spirit Airlines — Fort Lauderdale, Orlando
• Copa Airlines — Panama City (hub connection to South America)
• Avianca — Bogotá, San Salvador
• Air France — Paris (seasonal)
• Iberia — Madrid

Domestic Connections

Limited domestic services connect SDQ with other Dominican airports. Most domestic travel is done by ground transportation, though some charter and small aircraft services operate between airports.

Make the most of your experience at Las Américas with these practical tips:

• Complete your E-Ticket online before arrival. This is mandatory and having it ready on your phone speeds up the immigration process significantly.
• Carry US dollars for initial expenses. Taxis and some airport services accept USD. You can exchange currency or withdraw pesos from ATMs once through customs.
• Book airport transfers in advance. Pre-arranged transfers avoid the hassle of negotiating taxi fares upon arrival, especially late at night.
• Watch for traffic on the Las Américas Highway. Rush hour traffic in and out of Santo Domingo can add 30+ minutes to your journey. Plan accordingly for departure flights.
• Keep your luggage secure. Use TSA-approved locks and never leave bags unattended. Use the plastic wrapping service available before check-in for added security.
• Reconfirm your flight. Check your airline app or website for any schedule changes 24 hours before departure.
• Bring snacks for early departures. Not all food outlets are open for very early morning flights.
• SIM cards: Purchase a local SIM card or eSIM at vendors in the arrivals area for affordable data during your stay. Claro and Altice are the main providers.