Diego Jiménez Torres Airport

Aeropuerto Diego Jimenez Torres (FAJ) sits on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico, approximately 45 minutes by car from San Juan. It is a small regional airport serving the city of Fajardo and the surrounding area, including the popular tourist destinations of El Yunque National Forest, the bioluminescent bays, and the ferry terminals to Vieques and Culebra. With a single runway and a basic terminal, the airport handles primarily general aviation and charter flights, though it sees occasional scheduled regional service. For travelers heading to Fajardo or the nearby islands, this airport offers a convenient alternative to the larger Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.

Getting There

Aeropuerto Diego Jimenez Torres is located at 4 Calle Angel Flores, just south of Fajardo’s city center. From the main town square (Plaza de Fajardo), the airport is a five-minute drive. From San Juan, take PR-26 east to PR-66, then continue on PR-3 east toward Fajardo. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Rental cars are available at the airport, but taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are limited in Fajardo; it’s advisable to arrange transport in advance if you are not renting a car. Public buses (the “Machos”) connect Fajardo to nearby towns, but they do not run directly to the airport. The most reliable option is a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle. Bicycles are not a practical option due to the lack of bike lanes and the area’s hilly terrain.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal building at Aeropuerto Diego Jimenez Torres is compact and functional. It consists of a single waiting area with basic seating, a check-in counter, and a small arrivals zone. There is no air conditioning in the main hall, though fans help circulate air. Restrooms are available but may not be spotless. Vending machines offer drinks and snacks, but there are no restaurants or cafes. The security checkpoint is minimal, with a metal detector and X-ray machine; agents are friendly but thorough. The entire process from arrival at the terminal to boarding can be completed in 15 minutes during quiet periods. During peak times—Monday 10 pm, Tuesday 10 pm, Wednesday 1 pm, Thursday 7 pm—the small space can feel crowded, and there may be a short wait. The terminal has free Wi-Fi, but the signal is weak. Charging outlets are limited, so bring a portable charger. The runway is visible from the waiting area, offering a view of arriving and departing aircraft.

Aeropuerto Diego Jimenez Torres and Fajardo

Fajardo is a coastal city with a population of around 32,000, known historically as a fishing village and now as a gateway to Puerto Rico’s eastern natural attractions. The city itself offers a mix of old and new: colonial-style buildings, a central plaza with a church, and a marina that hosts yachts and fishing charters. The Las Croabas district, just northeast, is the launch point for kayak tours of the bioluminescent bay (Mosquito Bay), where millions of dinoflagellates light up the water at night. To the west lies El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and observation towers. The ferry terminal to Vieques and Culebra is a 10-minute drive from the airport; these islands are famous for their beaches, snorkeling, and raw natural beauty. Fajardo also has a small but active food scene, with local restaurants serving mofongo, fresh seafood, and pasteles. The area is safe during daylight, but visitors should take standard precautions after dark. The airport’s location makes it ideal for travelers whose primary interest is the outdoors rather than urban amenities. While Fajardo lacks the nightlife of San Juan, it offers direct access to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning ecosystems. The airport itself reflects the town’s character: no frills, but efficient and friendly.

Practical Information

The airport is not open 24 hours; hours vary by flight schedule. It is typically staffed from early morning until late evening, but travelers should confirm with their airline. The busiest times are Monday at 10 pm, Tuesday at 10 pm, Wednesday at 1 pm, and Thursday at 7 pm. Contact the airport at +1 787-566-0187 for specific hours or assistance. There is no official website, but flight information may be available through local charter companies. There are no ATMs inside the terminal; bring cash for taxis and snacks. Parking is free and ample, with a lot adjacent to the terminal. If you are flying to Vieques or Culebra, note that the small aircraft used have strict weight limits; arrive early to avoid issues. One concrete tip: if you are renting a car, book with a company that has a desk at the airport, as options are limited and walk-in availability is rare.