What is The Main Airport in Mexico City?
If you are flying to Mexico City soon, you might have seen that there are two airports in the capital of Mexico. One of the airports is called Benito Juárez, and the other one is called Felipe Ángeles Airport. However, they are quite far away from each other, so for planning purposes, it is nice to know which one is the main airport of Mexico City. The short answer is Benito Juárez International Airport, is the main airport of Mexico City. However, there is quite some interesting history surrounding both of the airports, in Mexico City. Read on if you want to know more.
History of Mexico City International Airport
The main airport of Mexico City, Benito Juárez International Airport, was established in 1931, currently, it is one of the busiest airports in Latin America and even one of the busiest airports in the world. The airport had a whopping 48 million passengers in 2023.
The airport is named after and dedicated to Benito Juárez, one of Mexico’s former presidents who was renowned for his progressive reforms and leadership during a transformative era in Mexican history. Benito Juárez Airport is also a bid to enhance Mexico’s aviation industry while simultaneously serving as homage to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
Facilities and Terminals at Mexico City’s Main Airport (Benito Juárez)
The airport is equipped with two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the oldest one of the two. This terminal is primarily used for domestic flights and only has some international routes. It is also the largest terminal in Latin America and ranks as the fourth largest in the world.
Terminal 2 was only opened in 2007 and mainly handles international flights. Both terminals are very easily reachable by Aerotrén, which makes for easy transfers. If you are looking to do something before leaving the country, there are also enough options in both terminals. There are VIP loungers, extensive shopping areas, dining options, and essential services.
Airlines and Destinations from Benito Juárez International Airport
Benito Juárez International Airport (AICM) in Mexico City serves as a vital hub for Aeroméxico, the nation’s flagship carrier, which dominates the airport’s operations both in terms of domestic and international flights.
AICM also hosts a wide range of other airlines, including Volaris and Viva Aerobus, enhancing its connectivity across Mexico and beyond. These airlines link Mexico City with numerous key destinations, reflecting its strategic importance in the Americas.
The airport’s comprehensive route network includes major cities across North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, making it a crucial gateway for international travelers entering and leaving Latin America.
Transportation To and From Mexico City’s Main Airport
Of course, you want to know how to get to Mexico City’s main airport, or how to get to your hotel or Airbnb from the airport. There are multiple transportation options available at Mexico City airport, such as taxis from Benito Juárez Airport to the center. However, you can also use other transport options such as Didi, Uber, the bus, the metro, or a private taxi service. It is smart to check in advance which option you like the best, so you come well prepared.
Introduction of Felipe Ángeles International Airport
Since 2022, there is another airport in Mexico City, Felipe Ángeles International Airport, however, this came with a lot of controversy. Felipe Ángeles Airport was developed to support the overflow of passengers at Benito Juárez Airport and was planned to improve the aviation infrastructure in the Mexico City metropolitan area.
First of all Felipe Ángeles was built more than 25 miles outside of the city limits. This also came with a brand-new highway stretching over these 25 miles, that only has people driving that are going to and from the airport. Despite it being proposed as a relief for Benito Juárez International Airport, the airport only opened with a limited amount of flights. Which made people doubt the impact of the airport. Other issues and controversies have to do with; budgets, inefficiency, unsafe air traffic management, and environmental concerns. To this day it is still quite rare to fly to Felipe Ángeles International Airport, as airlines such as Aeroméxico are hesitant to operate from there.
Benito Juárez International Airport is The Main Airport in Mexico City
While Benito Juárez International Airport remains the primary gateway to Mexico City, it’s essential to stay updated about the evolving roles of both city airports, especially with the recent introduction of Felipe Ángeles International Airport.
Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, understanding the facilities, such as smoking lounges, services, transportation options, and restaurants at Mexico City’s main airport will ensure a smoother travel experience. For those flying into or out of Benito Juárez, the wealth of airlines and destinations, coupled with efficient connectivity to the city, confirms its status as a top-tier international hub.
As Mexico City keeps expanding its aviation capabilities, travelers can look forward to more streamlined services and enhanced infrastructure, making their journey into the heart of Mexico more accessible and enjoyable.
