Mexico City International Airport (Benito Juárez International Airport)

Terminals and facilities

The airport has two main passenger terminals, commonly referred to as Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which serve a mix of full‑service and low‑cost carriers. Terminals include check‑in halls, security checkpoints, immigration and customs facilities, airline lounges, retail and food outlets, and ground‑handling services. Cargo terminals and dedicated apron areas support freight operations and logistics. Ground transport connections include taxis, shuttle coaches, airport buses and links to the metropolitan transit system to facilitate arrivals and departures for travelers in and around Mexico City.

History and development

The airport has evolved from early 20th‑century airfields to a modern international facility through successive phases of expansion and modernization. Growth in passenger demand and aircraft technology prompted terminal upgrades and the addition of support infrastructure over many decades. The dense urban setting has constrained footprint expansion and influenced long‑term planning; national and regional authorities have examined and implemented complementary airport projects to meet rising demand and redistribute traffic across the wider metropolitan region.

Operations, airlines and transport links

Benito Juárez International functions as a major hub for the country’s principal carrier and a key base for several other airlines. It handles a mixture of short‑haul domestic services and long‑haul international flights. Surface access is provided by multiple modes: dedicated airport bus services, long‑distance coach links, taxis and connections to city transit. The airport is integrated with the metropolitan transport network to enable onward journeys and transfers. Passenger services include airline lounges, retail shopping, dining and passenger assistance for people with reduced mobility.

Significance and challenges

The airport plays a central economic and social role for Mexico, supporting tourism, trade, business travel and air cargo. Its urban location, however, presents challenges: operational capacity limits, noise and environmental concerns, and logistical constraints for expansion. These issues have spurred planning for additional airports and infrastructure projects intended to relieve congestion, improve connectivity and enhance resilience for the region’s air transport system.

Governance and international role

Management of the airport involves national aviation authorities, airport operators and regulatory agencies responsible for safety, security and air traffic coordination. As a regional hub, the airport participates in international aviation networks, serving as a point of transfer for passengers and freight in Latin America and beyond. Coordination between local and federal authorities remains important for meeting environmental standards, airspace management and future capacity needs.

Key facts and services

• Official name: Benito Juárez International Airport; commonly abbreviated AICM.
• Two main passenger terminals offering a full range of traveler services.
• Major hub for national carriers and gateway for international flights.
• Served by multiple ground‑transport options and connected to the metropolitan transit network.
• Subject to long‑term planning to address capacity, environmental and operational challenges.

Named in honor of 19th‑century president Benito Juárez, the airport remains a focal point of Mexico’s aviation system and an essential link for passengers and commerce traveling to and from the capital.