A Closer Look at MEX Airport
Mexico City International Airport, also known as MEX Airport after its IATA code or AICM (Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México), is the leading international airport serving the Greater Mexico City and the busiest air hub in Mexico. Moreover, MEX Airport ranks as the 50th busiest aviation hub in the world, the 15th in North America, and the airport with the third largest passenger volume in Latin America. It is estimated to welcome around 124.000 passengers daily, making it one of the most important two-runway airports in the world in terms of passenger traffic. As a matter of fact, AICM Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México) handled 45,359,500 passengers in 2024. The airport is also often referred to as CDMX Airport, as CDMX is the abbreviation for Ciudad de México (Mexico City).
Mexico City Airport is also called Benito Juárez International Airport. It was named after the great Mexican politician and military man Benito Juárez, the country’s president from 1859 to 1872. It lies in Peñón de los Baños, in the borough of Venustiano Carranza (one of Mexico City’s sixteen districts). It sits on the district’s border, skirting Gustavo A. Madero on its north side. Benito Juarez Airport is located 5km (3.1 miles) from the city center of Mexico City, in its eastern area.
The airport’s history is long. In 1915, Balbuena Military Airport was constructed on the site. The first civilian airport opened its doors in 1928, though it was a small facility with limited services and dimensions, serving domestic flights. It wasn’t until 1943 that the first international flight took place, while the airport gradually evolved into today’s leading aviation hub. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, although its expansion is limited as it lies close to populated areas. Indeed, it was recently renovated in 2025 as part of the preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in Mexico.
MEX Airport is owned by the Mexican Navy, while Grupo Aeroportuario de la Ciudad de Mexico manages its operation. It is a bustling aviation hub, handling domestic flights as well as international routes. Verily, flights depart from AICM Airport, traveling to other Mexico and American destinations, Asia, the Middle East, as well as Europe. Hence, Mexico City Airport plays a crucial role in connecting Mexico City to the rest of the world.
Important Fact: Apart from Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City is also served by Felipe Ángeles International Airport, the new airport that was scheduled to help decongest the fully operating MEX Airport. Therefore, AIFA Airport, which opened in 2022, has limited MEX Airport’s operations. Furthermore, Toluca International Airport lies in Toluca, around a one-hour drive from Mexico City.
Airport Name: Mexico City International Airport
IATA Code: MEX
ICAO: MMMX
Location: Venustiano Carranza, Mexico City, Mexico
Time Zone: CST (Central Standard Time) UTC/GMT -6 hours
Airport Map: MEX Airport at Google Maps
MEX Airport’s Layout
Mexico City International Airport has two terminals and two runways. Both MEX airport terminals house arrivals and departures. Terminal 1 opened in 1958 and has been renovated and expanded multiple times. Terminal 2 was inaugurated in 2008, being the hub for the flag carrier Aeromexico while housing other airlines as well. Moreover, AICM Airport features 95 hardstands for aircraft. Out of them, 63 are connected to the terminals via jet bridges.
MEX Airlines
Mexico City Airport is the major airport in Mexico. As a result, it serves flights operated by several airlines, from low-cost air carriers to conventional aviation companies. Both domestic and international airlines are present at the airport. MEX Airport is the hub for Mexico’s flag carrier, Aeromexico, along with Volaris and Viva. Plus, it is a focus city for Magnicharters and an operating base for many members of the Skyteam alliance.
Parking Facilities
Mexico City airport parking facilities are designed to efficiently meet the passengers’ needs. Benito Juarez Airport features three parking lots, serving long-term and short-stay parking. In detail, two car parks can be found in terminal 1, one designated for domestic travelers and the other for international passengers. On the other hand, one parking lot is dedicated to passengers traveling from the AICM terminal 2.
Transit Options
Various means of transit are available at MEX Airport. Thus, there are several ways to travel from Mexico City Airport to the city center. In detail, the available options include:
- airport taxis
- airport car rentals
- private airport transfers
- bus lines
- one metro line
Services and Amenities
Mexico City International Airport is a busy and modern aviation hub offering a wide range of services and amenities. As one of the busiest air hubs in the world, it is efficiently equipped to meet passengers’ needs. Hence, there are various things to do at MEX Airport during a layover. Here are some of the airport’s top services:
- Retail stores
- Duty-free areas
- Eateries
- Cafes and bars
- Baggage carts
- Luggage wrapping
- Luggage storage
- Three medical services
- ATMs
- Currency exchange areas
- Lost & Found offices
- Lockers
- Lounges
- Airport hotels
- Wi-Fi
- Charging stations
- Smoking areas
- Special care and services for minors, seniors, and passengers with disabilities
Contact Info
Official Name: Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
Address: Av. Capitan Carlos Leon S/N Col. Penon de los Baños, C.P.15620, Mexico City, Mexico
Phone Number: (55) 2482-2424, (55) 2598-7000
Official Website: https://www.aicm.com.mx/en
The Lively Mexico City
Mexico City is a captivating blend of history and modernism. Verily, historical sites and buildings from the colonial period stand side by side with impressive skyscrapers and innovative architecture. Thus, the city’s visitors strolling around the city come across colonial-era masterpieces alongside modern buildings and towering skyscrapers. Moreover, Mexico City boasts world-renowned museums and historical sites, as well as colorful and vibrant districts that offer a lively cultural experience. The local markets also help travelers delve into the city’s vibes and culture. On the other hand, its culinary scene speaks for itself. The spicy Mexican cuisine spans from casual eateries and traditional spots to high-end gourmet restaurants, offering something for everyone. Whether you are craving a mouthwatering taco or want to enjoy a superb fusion dish, you won’t be disappointed with your experience in Mexico City. So, are you fascinated by cultural traditions and historical monuments? Do you prefer modernity, or are you looking for bustling nightlife and a flavorful gastronomic landscape? Regardless of your personal preferences, you’ll find numerous things to do in Mexico City to make the most of your stay in the city.
FAQs
Are there two airports in Mexico City?
Yes, Mexico City features two airports. Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) is the main airport in Mexico City, while Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) is the new city’s aviation hub that opened its doors in 2022.
Which airport do you fly into for Mexico City?
The primary airport in Mexico City is Mexico City International Airport. It is located in the borough of Venustiano Carranza, 5km (3.1 miles) from the city center. The airport handles domestic and international flights and is one of the busiest in the world.
Is AICM the same as MEX?
Yes, MEX Airport is another name for Mexico City Airport (after its IATA code). At the same time, AICM Airport derives from the first letters of the Spanish name of the air hub (Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México).
How big is Mexico City Airport?
Benito Juárez Airport is the major airport in Mexico and one of the busiest in the world. In fact, it is the third busiest in Latin America. It is a large air hub, consisting of two terminal buildings and two runways.
Where is Benito Juarez Airport?
Mexico City International Airport lies in Venustiano Carranza, one of the sixteen districts of Mexico City. It is located relatively close to the city center, within a 5km (3.1-mile) distance from downtown.
How early to get to Mexico City Airport?
Do you want to enjoy a stress-free check-in experience at Mexico City International Airport? If you are flying to a domestic destination, it is advised to be at the airport around two hours before your flight. On the other hand, international passengers should arrive at MEX Airport three hours before the scheduled departure time of their flight.
What are the transit options from MEX Airport?
Mexico City Airport is well-connected to the city center as well as to other surrounding regions and even longer-distance destinations. Passengers arriving at MEX Airport can opt for a taxi ride or a private airport transfer or catch a bus route or the subway to reach their journey’s end. Alternatively, car rentals are also available at AICM Airport.