This complete guide to Santo Domingo International Airport covers everything, from terminal layout and gate maps to lounges, dining, Wi-Fi, ground transportation, and the most practical tips for a smooth experience at SDQ in 2026.
Santo Domingo Airport — Key Facts at a Glance
| Official Name | Aeropuerto Internacional Las Américas José Francisco Peña Gómez |
| IATA Code | SDQ |
| ICAO Code | MDSD |
| Location | Ruta 66, Punta Caucedo, Boca Chica, Santo Domingo 11336, Dominican Republic |
| Distance from City | Approx. 30 km (18 miles) east of Santo Domingo city center (about 25–40 min by road). |
| Operator | Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI S.A. (AERODOM) |
| Terminals | Two connected concourses: Terminal A (South) and Terminal B (North) |
| Total Gates | 19 gates — A1–A10 (Terminal A) and B1–B9 (Terminal B) |
| Annual Passengers | Approx. 5.8 million passengers per year |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 |
| Time Zone | Atlantic Standard Time (AST, UTC-4) — No Daylight Saving Time |
| Phone | +1 (809) 947-2225 (General Information) |
Santo Domingo Airport Terminal Layout & Map
Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) is a mid-size, modern facility organized across three levels, with two connected concourses that form a single integrated building. Travelers do not need to take a shuttle or walk between separate terminal buildings.
Terminal A — South Concourse (Gates A1–A10)
Terminal A is the primary hub for international flights at SDQ, handling the majority of U.S., Latin American, and European carriers. It is the busier of the two concourses and features the widest range of airside amenities.
- Level 1 (Ground Floor): International arrivals, baggage claim, customs (Dirección General de Aduanas), immigration, and ground transportation exits.
- Level 2 (Upper Floor): Check-in counters, departures, security checkpoints, and boarding gates A1–A10.
- The Sala Caribe VIP Lounge is located airside in Terminal A, past security near the A Gates.
- Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, Spirit, Frontier, Avianca, Arajet, Copa, Air Europa, Air France, and others.
Terminal B — North Concourse (Gates B1–B9)
Terminal B serves European charter and scheduled flights, Canadian carriers, and regional Caribbean routes. It is also where the centralized car rental counters are located — convenient for all arriving passengers.
- Level 1 (Ground Floor): Arrivals, baggage claim, car rental counters (all major agencies), and ground transportation.
- Level 2 (Upper Floor): Check-in, departures, security, and boarding gates B1–B4 (plus remote stand P8).
- The Copa Club Lounge is located airside in Terminal B, in front of Gate B4.
- Airlines: Air Canada, Air Transat, Iberia, Condor, Evelop, TUI, Wingo, Conviasa, Intercaribbean, and others.
For full terminal details: Terminal A | Terminal B
Arriving at Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ) — What to Expect
Upon landing at Las Américas International Airport, all international passengers follow this process:
- Disembark and follow signs to Immigration (Control de Pasaportes) on the arrivals level (Level 1).
- E-Ticket QR code: All international arrivals must present their completed E-Ticket QR code at immigration; this is mandatory for entry to the Dominican Republic. Complete it at eticket.migracion.gob.do before your flight (it's free).
- Baggage claim is located on Level 1, directly after immigration clearance.
- Customs (Aduana): All passengers pass through the traffic-light inspection system. A green light means you may proceed; a red light means your bags will be inspected.
- After customs, exit to the arrivals hall where transportation services, taxis, and car rental shuttles are available.
Tip: Have your passport and E-Ticket QR code accessible and ready before you reach the immigration desk to speed up the process.
Departing from Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ) — Checklist
- Arrive at least 2.5–3 hours before your international flight departure.
- Check in at the counters on Level 2 of your respective terminal (A or B).
- Proceed through the security checkpoint on Level 2. Multiple checkpoints exist; follow the signs for your concourse.
- Fast Track lanes are available at the main security checkpoint for eligible passengers.
- A second security screening takes place at the gate before boarding.
- Duty-free shopping and dining are available airside after clearing security.
Note: Dominican departure tax is typically included in your airline ticket price for most routes.
Airport Lounges at Santo Domingo International Airport
Sala Caribe VIP Lounge — Terminal A
- Location: Airside, Terminal A — after security, turn right toward the A Gates. Follow the 'VIP' signs approximately 25 meters through the shopping area.
- Access: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and Diners Club members. Also accessible for a per-visit fee.
- Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
- Amenities: Comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, computers, TV, air conditioning, designated smoking area.
Copa Club — Terminal B
- Location: Airside, Terminal B — North Concourse, in front of Gate B4.
- Access: Copa Airlines business class passengers, ConnectMiles Gold/Platinum/Presidential Platinum, Star Alliance Gold members, United Club, Air Canada Maple Leaf Club.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 5:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday, Thursday, Saturday until 3:00 PM).
- Amenities: Seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, computers, TV, air conditioning, newspapers, magazines, telephones, fax.
Wi-Fi & Connectivity at SDQ
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout both terminals. Connect to the 'Vinci Airports WiFi' network — no password required.
- Mobile charging stations: Power outlets and USB charging points are available near gate areas in both concourses.
- Internet kiosks: Located in the terminal for passengers without personal devices.
Restaurants & Dining at Santo Domingo Airport
Santo Domingo Airport offers a range of dining options across both terminals, though most airside outlets operate during peak hours and may close late at night. Plan if you have an early morning or overnight connection.
Popular options at SDQ include:
- Burger King — quick-service burgers and fast food.
- Cinnabon — pastries and coffee near the departure areas.
- Starbucks — coffee and light bites.
- Local Dominican cuisine outlets — traditional dishes and snacks available landside.
- Various cafés and snack kiosks are airside near gate areas.
Tip: If arriving late at night or very early in the morning, food options may be limited. The Sala Caribe Lounge (Terminal A) provides complimentary snacks 24/7 for access holders.
Shopping & Duty Free at Santo Domingo Airport
Both terminals offer a curated mix of retail and duty-free shopping airside, including:
- Duty-free spirits: Dominican rum (Brugal, Barceló, Bermúdez). Among the best souvenirs you can take home from the Dominican Republic.
- Dominican cigars: Premium tobacco products unique to the island.
- Perfumes and cosmetics at duty-free boutiques.
- Amber and larimar jewelry: Unique to the Dominican Republic, these semi-precious stones make exceptional souvenirs.
- Dominican crafts, apparel, and local artisan products.
- Travel essentials: Books, magazines, snacks, and accessories.
- Pharmacy: Personal care items and basic medications.
Airport Services & Facilities at Santo Domingo Airport
Luggage
- Complimentary luggage carts are available in baggage claim areas and throughout the terminals. Look for clearly marked cart stations.
- Luggage wrapping and protection services are available at the check-in level in both terminals.
- Luggage storage: Available in the arrivals area of Terminal A, accessible at all times. Fees apply based on size and duration.
- Porters: Available in baggage claim areas and throughout the terminals, identifiable by their uniforms.
Currency & Banking
- ATMs (cajeros automáticos): Available throughout both terminals, dispensing Dominican pesos (RD$) and USD.
- Currency exchange counters: Located pre-security in both terminals.
- Most airside shops accept USD and major credit/debit cards.
Other Services
- Showers: Available for a fee, useful for overnight layovers or long connections.
- Public phones: Available throughout both terminals.
- Information desks: Staffed with multilingual representatives in the arrivals and departures halls.
- Medical assistance: First aid services are available at the airport.
- Prayer room: Available for passengers.
Ground Transportation from Las Américas Airport (SDQ)
Getting to and from Las Américas International Airport is convenient, with multiple transportation options available 24/7:
Private Transfer (Recommended)
The most comfortable and reliable option, especially for first-time visitors. A professional driver meets you at arrivals with your name on a sign, assists with luggage, and delivers you directly to your destination: hotel, resort, or address. Anywhere in the Dominican Republic.
Book your Santo Domingo Airport Transfers
Official Airport Taxis
- Available 24/7 outside the arrivals exits of both terminals.
- Fixed regulated rates: always confirm the fare before departing.
- Estimated fare to Santo Domingo city center: $30–45 USD.
- Estimated fare to Punta Cana: $160–180 USD.
Rental Car
- Centralized car rental area in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal B.
- Agencies: Avis, Hertz, Budget, National/Alamo, Sixt, Europcar, Dollar, and local agencies.
- Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially in peak season.
More info: Car Rental in Santo Domingo Airport
Ride-Hailing Apps
- Uber and InDriver operate in the Santo Domingo area and can be requested outside the terminal exits.
- Note: Pick-up points may vary. Confirm the exact location with your driver via the app.
Public Transportation
- No direct public bus service connects SDQ to the Santo Domingo city center. The nearest public transport options require reaching the city first.
- For intercity routes (e.g., to Punta Cana), Expreso Bávaro and APTPRA operate from terminals in the Santo Domingo city center (not from Santo Domingo Airport directly).
Hotels Near Las Américas Airport (SDQ)
For travelers with early flights, long layovers, or overnight connections, several hotels are conveniently located near the airport:
- Barceló Bávaro Palace: approx. 45 min east, in the Punta Cana/Bávaro resort area.
- Hamaca Beach Hotel: approx. 15 min from SDQ in nearby Boca Chica; excellent for short layovers.
- Dominicus Beach Hotel, Bayahibe: approx. 60 min east.
- Santo Domingo city center hotels: approx. 30–45 min west of SDQ; ideal for exploring the Colonial Zone.
Tip: For a same-day transit or a layover of less than 6 hours, a pre-booked private transfer to Boca Chica beach (15 min) is one of the most efficient ways to make use of your time near the airport.
Top Tips for Traveling Through Santo Domingo Airport in 2026
- Complete your E-Ticket online at eticket.migracion.gob.do before your flight. It's mandatory for all international arrivals and completely free.
- Arrive at least 2.5–3 hours before international departures. Las Americas Airport can experience high volumes during peak travel periods (Carnival, Easter, Christmas/New Year).
- The airport operates 24/7, but most airside dining and retail outlets close at night. If you have a late-night or early-morning connection, access the Sala Caribe Lounge or bring snacks.
- Currency: Dominican pesos (RD$) and USD are both widely accepted. ATMs in both terminals dispense both currencies.
- Keep your E-Ticket QR code accessible throughout your entire stay in the Dominican Republic; you may need it again upon departure.
- Fast Track lanes are available at the main security checkpoint for eligible passengers and Priority Pass holders.
- If collecting a rental car, head directly to Terminal B Arrivals Hall (all agencies are in a single centralized area).
- For transit passengers, Las Américas International Airport has comfortable seating areas with free Wi-Fi and charging points throughout both concourses.
Frequently Asked Questions — Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ)
Is Santo Domingo Airport open 24 hours?
Yes. Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, most retail and dining outlets inside the terminals close at night. The Sala Caribe VIP Lounge in Terminal A is open 24/7.
How many terminals does Santo Domingo Airport have?
SDQ has two connected concourses within a single building: Terminal A (South, gates A1–A10) and Terminal B (North, gates B1–B9). There is no need to travel between separate buildings — the two concourses are linked internally.
Does Santo Domingo Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals. Connect to the 'Vinci Airports WiFi' network — no password is required.
What lounges are available at SDQ?
There are two lounges at Las Américas Airport: the Sala Caribe VIP Lounge in Terminal A (open 24/7, accessible via Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or Diners Club) and the Copa Club in Terminal B (accessible to Star Alliance Gold members and Copa Airlines premium passengers, open Mon–Sat).
Is there an E-Ticket requirement for the Dominican Republic?
Yes. All international travelers arriving at SDQ must complete the Dominican Republic E-Ticket (eticket.migracion.gob.do) before their flight. It replaces the old paper tourist card and embarkation card and is free of charge. You will receive a QR code by email — have it ready on your phone or printed upon arrival.
How far is Santo Domingo Airport from the city center?
Las Américas Airport is located approximately 30 km (18 miles) east of Santo Domingo's city center, which takes about 25–40 minutes by car depending on traffic. The airport is located near the coastal town of Boca Chica, which is only about 15 minutes away.
What transportation is available from SDQ Airport?
Options include pre-booked private transfers (recommended — book at lasamericasairport.com/transportation), official airport taxis, rental cars (Terminal B Arrivals Hall), and ride-hailing apps (Uber and InDriver). There is no direct public bus from SDQ to the Santo Domingo city center.
Plan Your Visit to Las Américas International Airport
Whether you are arriving, departing, or transiting through Santo Domingo Airport, Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) offers everything you need for a smooth and comfortable journey. From the moment you land to the moment you take off, SDQ connects you to the Dominican Republic's extraordinary mix of history, beaches, and culture.
Book your Santo Domingo Airport Transportation
Published on Jun 02, 2026
