Punta Cana International Airport (MDPC) has announced mandatory prior coordination for all operations during the upcoming high season, effective Nov. 27, 2025 through Jan. 15, 2026. The measure responds to limited ramp capacity and anticipated traffic increases during the peak winter travel period.

What Is Changing

At Universal Aviation Punta Cana (MDPC), privacy, safety, and security are prioritized. The team coordinates handling, permits, VIP requests, ground transportation, and catering to support a smooth and compliant operation.

According to Universal Aviation Dominican Republic, the airport will require advance authorization for all business aviation arrivals during the specified timeframe. This represents a significant change from previous procedures and is designed to manage the anticipated surge in traffic while ensuring a more predictable allocation of ramp space.

Impact On Operations

Flight departments and operators should expect that arrivals without proper advance coordination may face:

• Operational penalties
• Parking restrictions or denials
• Last-minute ramp reassignments
• Potential delays in ground handling services

Late-Night Arrivals And Departures

Universal Aviation Dominican Republic has also observed increasing challenges with late arrivals and departures at MDPC between 2100 and 0700 local. While MDPC is officially a 24/7 airport, there has been a rise in denials for late-night operations, likely due to staffing constraints during overnight hours. Operators planning movements during these times should be prepared for additional scrutiny and possible schedule adjustments.

Required Information For Coordination

To secure advance authorization, operators must provide at minimum:

• Estimated arrival and departure dates and times
• Aircraft type and registration
• Planned parking duration
• Additional service requirements such as ground transportation, crew accommodations, and catering

Universal Aviation Dominican Republic can assist operators with submitting coordination requests and addressing operational questions with airport authorities.

Timeline And Planning Considerations

The coordination requirement covers the period when MDPC typically sees its highest seasonal traffic. Operators with routine or scheduled winter operations into the Dominican Republic should begin submitting requests as early as possible to reduce the risk of parking or schedule constraints.

Operational Best Practices

To help ensure smooth operations during this period:

• Submit coordination requests as early as practical once schedules are known
• Provide complete and accurate aircraft and service information with each request
• Maintain flexibility in arrival and departure times when possible
• Reconfirm all arrangements 48 to 72 hours prior to the planned arrival

This temporary measure is designed to maintain service levels and ensure ramp safety during peak demand. Operators who plan ahead and coordinate through their local handler should experience minimal disruption to their Punta Cana and broader Dominican Republic operations.

Universal Aviation Dominican Republic remains in close contact with airport authorities and will provide updates if operational requirements change.