BZE vs TZA: Which Belize City Airport Should You Use?
Welcome to Belize! If you’re flying in from the U.S. or Canada, your international flight will land at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE). But hereâs something first-time travelers often donât realize: thereâs another airport right in Belize CityâBelize City Municipal Airport (TZA)âwhich also serves many of the same domestic destinations.
So, which one should you use to catch your next flight to San Pedro, Placencia, or Dangriga? Letâs compare BZE vs TZA so you can decide whatâs most convenient for your Belize adventure.
âď¸ Quick Overview of BZE and TZA
| Feature | BZE (International) | TZA (Municipal) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 10 miles from Belize City (Ladyville) | In Belize City proper |
| Handles International? | Yes | No (domestic flights only) |
| Airlines | Tropic Air, Maya Island Air + Internationals | Tropic Air, Maya Island Air |
| Domestic Destinations | All major towns and cayes | All major towns and cayes |
| Amenities | Duty-free, snacks, SIM cards, taxis | Minimal: snacks, bathrooms, waterside view |
| Popular With | Tourists arriving by international flight | Locals, budget travelers, repeat visitors |
đŤ Domestic Destinations from Both Airports
Both airports serve the same key domestic destinations:
- San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
- Caye Caulker
- Placencia
- Dangriga
- Punta Gorda
- Corozal
Only BZE once offered direct scheduled flights to Maya Flats (San Ignacio), making it ideal for travelers heading inland.
đââď¸ My First Flight from TZA
I remember my first flight from Belize City Municipal to Dangriga. I assumed weâd be flying completely over water, but we started with about 5 miles overland. It was the first time I saw my country from the skyâwatching mountains flatten into hills, and hills melt into coastline.
The flight was only about 15 minutes, but it felt longer (in a good way). I felt my first bit of turbulenceâa sudden bump that startled meâbut everyone else was calm, so I figured it was normal. I kept looking out the window, thinking, âWhat a beautiful little country I live in.â That flight made me promise myself: one day Iâll travel all of it.
Even though I mostly drive now (our road trips are family adventures), that memory always reminds me of the wonder of seeing Belize from the sky.
đ¤ So Which Should You Use?
Fly from BZE if:
- You’re arriving internationally and want maximum convenience
- Youâd rather not deal with taxis or extra check-ins
- Youâre flying to Maya Flats or another inland location
Fly from TZA if:
- Youâre already in Belize City
- Youâre looking to save money (TZA flights are often $50â60 USD cheaper)
- You donât mind a short taxi ride from BZE (~$25 USD, 25 minutes)
đ Tips for Transferring from BZE to TZA
If youâre flying international into BZE but connecting domestically from TZA:
- Give yourself at least 2.5 hours between flights
- Taxis are $25 USD to Municipal Airport
- Travel lightâdomestic airlines weigh everything (yes, even you!)
- Let your airline know if youâre tight on timeâtheyâll usually help reschedule
đ§ Alvinâs Final Take
If itâs your first trip, you might want to keep things simple and fly out of BZE. But if youâve got a bit of time and want to save some cash, flying from Municipal is a great optionâand the ride through the city gives you a little local flavor too.
No matter which airport you choose, Iâm happy to help with transfers, bookings, or just pointing you in the right direction. Belize isnât just easy to reachâitâs easy to love.
âď¸ Need help with airport pickups or local flights? Letâs chat.
