Calexico International Airport – CXL
Located in Calexico, California, Calexico International Airport (CXL) is a small but important airport in Mexico. It helps to connect some regions, which act as hubs for some of the important cross-border trade in the region. Located just a few minutes away, the airport facilitates both travel and trade in the Imperial Valley region. Located approximately 2 miles west of downtown Calexico and right next to the border town of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, the airport’s strategic location makes it ideal for business, tourists and general aviation enthusiasts traveling between the two countries and has become an essential gateway to the region.
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Calexico International Airport Address: Location, Map, and Phone Number Details
| Airport Name | Calexico International Airport |
| Airport IATA Code | CXL |
| Airport Address | 801 W 2nd St, Calexico, CA 92231, United States |
| CXL Airport Phone Number | +1 (760) 768-2175 |
| Distance from Calexico | 1 Miles |
| Official Airport Website | https://www.calexico.ca.gov |
CXL Airport Map, Facilities & Services
Calexico International Airport Terminals
Unlike larger commercial airports, Calexico International Airport is a single-terminal airport, serving the specific needs of general aviation and cross-border services since its introduction. Its compact and well-designed layout ensures all facilities including arrival and departure for travelers.
The Features of the Calexico International Airport Terminal
1. Immigration and Customs Facilities at the Airport
These features are a great feature for travelers arriving or departing from Mexico through this airport. The services that this customs area has been streamlined to handle are discussed below:
- It can handle the Private aircraft arrivals efficiently.
- Charter flight clearances can be operated perfectly.
- Cargo processing can be handled accurately for cross-border goods.
2. Passenger Amenities
Though the single terminal of Calexico International Airport is small, however, it offers all essential facilities for travelers, including:
- Waiting Areas: The terminal offers comfortable seating for passengers who are waiting for their flights or customs processing.
- Restrooms: you will find clean and accessible facilities to make your travel convenient.
- Vending Machines: The passengers can enjoy a different selection of snacks and beverages which is available for quick refreshment.
3. Pilot and Crew Services
The terminal also caters to the requirements of pilots and flight crews with:
- Flight planning resources.
- Refuelling and ground handling services.
- Communication and navigation support.
4. Accessibility
The terminal is designed in such as way that can accommodate the passengers with reduced mobility. It ensures a seamless travel experience for all travelers.
5. Efficiency for Cross-Border Travelers
Its proximity to the US-Mexico border makes the airport an ideal entry and exit point for private pilots and business travelers. Due to its streamlined customs services, you need to spend less time on formalities, besides its single terminal allows for quick transit between the two countries.
6. Facilities Within the Terminal
- Dining Options: Terminal features the several fast food outlets, coffee shops, and restaurants which are perfect for Mexican and international cuisines.
- Shopping: Different Stores are situated within the terminal usually selling souvenirs, local crafts, and travel essentials. International travelers can find duty-free products in the terminal building.
- VIP Lounge: The terminal also features a comfortable lounge with all types of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, refreshments, and business facilities.
Global Entry Program
Although travelers will no longer receive the Global Entry service at Calexico International Airport recently, they can still take advantage of this program. If they enter the US through an airport where this service is available, they can enjoy the benefits at that airport as well.
TSA PreCheck
When using Calexico International Airport, passengers have to go through a usual security screening procedure. All travellers, even those who are PreCheck members, must stick to regular security procedures as TSA PreCheck benefits do not apply in this case.
You can utilise the TSA PreCheck terminal at the US airport for the next trip if you arrive via CXL and connect to a domestic airline in the US.
How to get around the terminals at Calexico International Airport
Calexico International Airport (CXL) is a single-terminal airport, it is incredibly easier to navigate than any of the larger, multi-terminal airports. This compact design allows passengers and crew to move quickly without needing additional transport or to cover long distances on foot. They can easily access all the terminal facilities on foot.
Features of the Terminal Layout
1. Compact design and size
Almost all services, including customs processing, pilot facilities, and passenger seating, are located in a single building. Due to the terminal’s location adjacent to the runway and aircraft parking, passengers can transfer between the terminals in less time without taking ground transportation and by walking only.
2. Streamlined Services
- Customs and Immigration: Being located within the Customs and Immigration terminal, international travelers can easily access it.
- General Aviation Services: The terminal has flight planning, refueling, and ground handling facilities, which you can access by walking.
3. Parking and Accessibility
The parking lot sits just outside the terminal, which passengers and crew can easily access. The walkways are marked, allowing almost all types of passengers to navigate smoothly.
How to get from Calexico International Airport
This small airport is located near downtown Calexico, California, and very close to the US-Mexico border. With a convenient location and a variety of transportation options, arriving or departing travelers can easily access nearby destinations.
Transportation Options from CXL
Taxis and Rideshare Services
- Taxis: you can get the on-demand rides as local taxi services are available here. Taxis are waiting near the terminal or you can book the service in advance through their app.
- Rideshare Apps: There are several popular Rideshare services operating in the Calexico area like Uber and Lyft. You have to book through the mobile and confirm your convenient pick-ups and drop-offs.
Car Rentals
You can rent a car out of the terminal if you want to explore the Imperial Valley or drive across the border into Mexicali. Here, different services are available nearby in downtown Calexico such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis.
Public Transportation
- IVT (Imperial Valley Transit): You will find the local buses which are operated by Imperial Valley Transit. It can connect the Calexico with other cities in the region, including El Centro and Brawley. The nearest bus stop is located in downtown Calexico, about 2 miles from the airport.
- Cross-Border Transportation
For travelers heading to Mexicali, Mexico:
Pedestrian Crossing: The Calexico West Port of Entry is just a short drive from the airport, so you can easily cross the border into Mexicali after disembarking at the port. Once across, you can travel to Mexicali via taxi and rideshare services.
Parking at Calexico International Airport (CXL)
Calexico International Airport (CXL) has a small and convenient parking area that meets the needs of pilots, passengers, and visitors. Although its parking lot is smaller and less spacious than larger commercial airports, its proximity to the terminal makes it an accessible and practical choice for airport users. This parking area is decided into two parking lot.
Key Features of the Parking Lot
- While the parking area is small, it is sufficient to serve the needs of CXL’s operations, which primarily cater to general aviation and private aircraft.
- Space is generally available due to the airport’s low passenger volume.
Short-Term and Long-Term Parking
- Short-Term Parking: this parking lot is ideal for those travelers who need to drop off or pick up passengers or attend to quick business at the airport.
- Long-Term Parking: It is suitable for only the general aviation users or those passengers who are leaving their vehicles at the airport while traveling.
These parking lots are located conveniently adjacent to the airport terminal which allows travelers, visitors, and crews to walk to and from their vehicles within minutes. To cover this short, you need not to take any shuttle services.
Best and Pocket-Friendly Hotels at Calexico International Airport
While traveling through Calexico International Airport (CXL), you may need a comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation to stay. You can be your luck. This small but vibrant border airport has a variety of accommodations that cater to all types of travelers be they on a business trip, family vacation, and solo adventurers.
Holiday Inn Express Calexico
A trusted name in hospitality, the Holiday Inn Express offers clean, modern, well-designed rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and coffee makers. They also offer a complimentary breakfast buffet. The guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and free parking. Located 2 miles from the airport, the hotel is ideal for business travelers or families looking for a balance of comfort and affordability.
Border Motel
A no-frills option for travelers who are seeking cost-effective options, Border Motel offers clean and well-equipped rooms at unbeatable prices. located near downtown Calexico, the hotel is convenient for accessing local shops and restaurants. You can also enjoy Free parking and Wi-Fi. It is really a great choice for short stays or solo travelers looking for simplicity and convenience.
Best Western John Jay Inn
Known for its affordability and high-quality abilities, the Best Western John Jay Inn is actually mid-range option. But it usually offers great value for the price with its modern amenities and spacious room. Here, Guests can appreciate its well-maintained outdoor pool, relaxing hot tub, complimentary breakfast, fitness centre, and free parking.
California Suites Motel
It is actually a budget-friendly motel, renowned for its comfortable accommodations with all the essentials. Situated within walking distance of downtown Calexico and just 1 mile from the airport you will get easy access to both the airport and the border crossing.
Additional Conveniences and Facilities Found at Calexico International Airport
As a small regional airport, Calexico International Airport (CXL) offers limited Wi-Fi compared to larger airports. If you want to confirm the availability and details about Wi-Fi at CXL, you need to contact the airport help desk or check with the airport authority on arrival.
Calexico International Airport (CXL) is a kid-friendly Mexican airport, offers several amenities and services that can make families travel smoothly with their children. Here you will find different facilities such as spacious terminals, clean restrooms with baby-changing areas, and a variety of dining options including kid-friendly meals.
CXL is also a pet-friendly airport, with different facilities and services that help to accommodate the pets of travelers. But you need to check the airport policies regarding the pet.
ATMs, Banks, and Currency Exchange or Forex at Calexico International Airport (CXL)
Calexico International Airport (CXL) is a small regional airport with limited amenities. You will find several local ATMs near the terminal. Most of the ATMs are operated by local banks.
The airport does not have full full-service bank within the terminal or other areas. At the same time, CXL does not have any dedicated currency exchange services. For this service, you have to contact the Bank of Mexicali.
Conclusion
Though small in size, Calexico International Airport (CXL) plays a crucial role in connecting two important cities such as Southern California and Mexico. The strategic location near the border, the airport focuses on offering general aviation and cross-border convenience. It makes the airport a valuable asset for travelers and businesses alike. Whether you’re on a leisure trip, business travel, or want to explore the Imperial Valley, CXL serves travelers a seamless travel experience.
FAQs
As a general aviation airport, the airport serves its service to private pilots, charter flights, cargo operations, and agricultural aviation.
Yes, the airport features an on-site U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility that facilitates customs clearance for international flights, particularly for international travelers arriving from Mexico.
No, CXL does not serve as a scheduled commercial airline service which is used mainly for private flights, charters, and cargo operations.
Unlike the larger airport, CXL has limited facilities for its small size. So, travelers need to plan for food, beverages, and other necessities before arriving or departing.