Mexico City International Airport, officially Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juarez, is the busiest airport in Mexico and one of the busiest in Latin America. Located within the eastern part of Mexico City, approximately 5 kilometers from the historic city center, the airport occupies a constrained site surrounded by dense urban development. MEX opened in 1943 and has been expanded repeatedly to handle over 50 million passengers annually across two terminals connected by an automated shuttle system. Terminal 1 is the larger facility serving most carriers, while Terminal 2 was added in 2007 and primarily handles Aeromexico and its SkyTeam partners. The airport serves as the main hub for Aeromexico, Mexico's flag carrier, and Volaris, a major low-cost carrier. VivaAerobus and other domestic airlines also maintain significant operations. Mexico City Airport is connected to the city via Mexico City Metro Line 5 and the Metrobus Line 4, providing affordable public transit options. The airport operates two parallel runways that are too close together to allow simultaneous independent operations, creating capacity constraints that have long been a challenge. A new airport, the Felipe Angeles International Airport, opened in 2022 at the former Santa Lucia military air base north of the city to relieve congestion. The airport's elevation of 2,230 meters above sea level is among the highest of any major international airport, affecting aircraft performance and requiring adjusted takeoff procedures.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Mexico City Airport to the city center?

The Metro Line 5 has a Terminal Aerea station near Terminal 1, offering rides to the city center for just MXN 5. However, it is not recommended with heavy luggage due to crowding. The Metrobus Line 4 connects both terminals to the city center for MXN 30. Official yellow airport taxis cost MXN 250-350 to the Centro Historico or Zona Rosa, and tickets are purchased inside the terminal.

How many terminals does Mexico City Airport have?

AICM has two terminals. Terminal 1 is the larger original building, handling most international airlines and Aeromexico operations. Terminal 2 was opened in 2007 and serves Aeromexico Connect, VivaAerobus, Volaris, and some international carriers. The terminals are connected by the Aerotrén monorail, which is free for passengers with a boarding pass and takes about 5 minutes.

Which airlines have a hub at Mexico City Airport?

Aeromexico, a SkyTeam founding member, operates its primary hub from Terminal 1 with connections across the Americas and to Europe and Asia. Volaris and VivaAerobus, Mexico major low-cost carriers, have significant operations from Terminal 2. MEX is the busiest airport in Latin America by passenger movements.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Mexico City Airport?

Yes, both terminals offer free Wi-Fi provided by Infinitum. The network requires a brief registration and provides 30-minute sessions that can be renewed. Speeds are suitable for basic browsing and messaging. Premium faster connections are available for purchase at some airline lounges.

What should I know about altitude at Mexico City Airport?

MEX sits at an elevation of 2,230 meters (7,316 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest major airports in the world. The thin air can affect passengers arriving from sea level, causing mild altitude symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue. It is advisable to stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few hours after arrival.