Airlines began to evacuate tourists from Mexico's beachside city of Acapulco on Friday after a scale-topping Category 5 hurricane left a trail of destruction and at least 27 people dead, authorities said.
"Acapulco airport has already been reopened for an airlift," Defense Minister Luis Cresencio Sandoval told reporters in Mexico City, adding that the runway had not suffered major damage.
Commercial airlines would bring in doctors and fly out tourists and locals, he added.
Passengers hauling suitcases arrived at Acapulco International Airport to catch free flights, expressing relief to be alive after Hurricane "Otis" smashed into the city with winds of 270 kilometers per hour.
"We're very happy and content, grateful to be able to continue living our lives" Clara Elena Albo from Mexico City, who was on vacation with her husband, said.
The airport buildings and installations appeared to be severely damaged, with broken glass and debris littering the ground.
The control tower and navigation systems were severely affected, so flights will be operated visually.
WITH AFP