Key Highlights
- Mexico City is served by two main airports: the primary Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) and the secondary Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU).
- Benito Juárez International Airport is the main hub for most international flights and domestic flights.
- The Mexico City airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, connected by an AirTrain and shuttle bus.
- You can find numerous transportation options, including authorized taxis, rideshares, the Metro, and the Metrobús.
- Both terminals offer a wide range of services like restaurants, shops, currency exchange, and airport lounges.
Introduction
Welcome to Mexico City! Arriving at a bustling hub like the Mexico City International Airport can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. But don’t worry, navigating this major international airport is easier than you think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the different terminals and finding your way around to catching a ride into the city. Let’s make your arrival in Mexico City smooth and stress-free.
Overview of Mexico City Airports
When flying into Mexico City, you’ll land at one of two airports. The main gateway is Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), which handles the vast majority of air traffic. It’s the one most travelers are familiar with.
A newer, secondary airport, Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU), has also been developed to help manage the city’s growing air travel demands. Understanding which Mexico City airport you’re using is the first step to a seamless journey.
Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX)
Benito Juárez International Airport, or MEX, is the primary international airport and main hub for Mexico City. Located in the eastern part of the city, it serves as the arrival point for most international flights and a vast network of domestic routes. If you’re flying a major international carrier, chances are you’ll be landing here.
The airport is divided into two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the larger and older of the two, serving a wide variety of airlines. Terminal 2 is newer and primarily used by Aeromexico and its SkyTeam partners, like Delta Air Lines.
How do you know which terminal to use? It’s simple: your airline will determine your terminal. Always check your ticket or boarding pass before you travel. For example, if you’re flying Aeromexico, you’ll almost certainly use Terminal 2, while airlines like Volaris, United, and American Airlines use Terminal 1.
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU)
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU), also known as AIFA or Santa Lucía Airport, is Mexico City’s secondary airport. Situated about 22 miles (35 km) north of the city center, it was developed to ease congestion at MEX. While it’s growing, it currently handles fewer flights than the main airport.
NLU primarily serves domestic routes within Mexico, but it is expanding its services. It now offers a limited number of direct flights to international destinations, mainly in the United States. Airlines like Aeromexico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus operate out of NLU, so it’s always wise to confirm your airport when booking.
If your travel plans are flexible, you might find some competitive fares flying into this newer facility. Just be sure to factor in the longer travel time to get into the heart of Mexico City from this location.
Airport History and Development
The Benito Juárez International Airport has a long and storied history, evolving from a small airfield into the bustling Latin American hub it is today. Its growth mirrors the expansion of Mexico City itself, constantly adapting to meet the demands of modern air travel.
Recent years have seen significant upgrades aimed at improving the passenger experience. From expanded security areas to new airport lounges and retail spaces, the airport continues to transform. Let’s look at how it all began and what’s new.
From Origins to Expansion
Mexico City’s aviation history dates back to the early 20th century. The current site of the international airport began as a small military airbase. Over the decades, as air travel became more common, it was transformed into a commercial airport to serve the growing capital.
Its designation as the country’s main hub for air traffic led to several major expansions. The construction of Terminal 1 solidified its role as a key connection point for flights across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. This growth was essential to accommodate the millions of passengers passing through each year.
The airport’s development has been a continuous process of modernization, reflecting Mexico City’s status as a global destination. Each expansion phase has added capacity and services, turning it into the sprawling complex you see today.
Recent Upgrades and New Facilities
To keep up with passenger demand, the international airport has undergone numerous recent upgrades. These improvements are designed to make your travel experience smoother and more comfortable. You’ll find expanded check-in areas, more efficient security checkpoints, and a better flow throughout the terminals.
Wondering about the facilities and services available? The airport boasts a wide array. You can find everything from duty-free shops and diverse restaurants to currency exchange kiosks and banking services. For relaxation, several airport lounges offer a quiet escape from the crowds, providing comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments. Many direct flights now benefit from these enhanced amenities.
These new facilities ensure that whether you’re arriving, departing, or just passing through, you have access to modern conveniences. The focus is on providing a seamless experience, with services catering to both business and leisure travelers.
Terminal Guide: Finding Your Way
Navigating the Mexico City airport is all about knowing your terminal. The airport has two main terminals, T1 and T2, and their layout is quite different. Your airline determines which terminal you’ll use, so checking your flight information is the most important step.
Once you know your terminal, finding your way around is straightforward. Signs are bilingual (Spanish and English), guiding you to check-in, security, gates, and baggage claim. Let’s break down what you can expect in each terminal.
Terminal 1 — Airlines, Layout, and Services
Terminal 1 is the original and larger of the two terminals, handling a mix of domestic and international airlines. Its layout is long and spread out, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the upper floor. This terminal is a hub for carriers like Volaris, Viva Aerobus, and many international airlines.
To know if you’re using Terminal 1, simply check which airline you’re flying. Airlines operating from T1 are clearly listed on the airport’s website and on your ticket. The terminal is divided into different halls (Salas) for check-in and gates, so pay attention to the signs to find your specific area.
Here’s a quick look at some of the major airlines you’ll find in Terminal 1:
| Airline Category | Example Airlines in Terminal 1 |
|---|---|
| International Carriers | Air Canada, Air France, British Airways, Emirates, Iberia, KLM, Lufthansa, United |
| Domestic & Regional | Volaris, Viva Aerobus, Magnicharters |
| Other US Carriers | American Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest |
Terminal 2 — Airlines, Layout, and Services
Opened in 2007, Terminal 2 is the newer and more modern terminal at the airport. It has a more compact and easy-to-navigate layout compared to Terminal 1. Like T1, arrivals are on the ground floor and departures are on the upper level, with a third level dedicated to lounges.
This terminal is primarily the home of Aeromexico and its SkyTeam alliance partners. What airlines operate here? If you’re flying on Aeromexico, Delta Air Lines, LATAM, or Copa Airlines, you will almost certainly be using Terminal 2 for both domestic and international flights. This centralization makes connections between these partner airlines much more convenient.
Terminal 2 features its own array of shops, restaurants, and services, ensuring you have everything you need without having to transfer to the other terminal. Its clean design and efficient layout contribute to a less hectic travel experience.
Transferring Between Terminals
Do you have a connecting flight from the other terminal? Don’t worry, getting between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at the Mexico City Airport is straightforward. The terminals are located on opposite sides of the runways, so walking is not a practical option.
Luckily, there are dedicated transfer options available to get you where you need to go. The airport provides both a light rail and shuttle buses to connect passengers. Here’s what you need to know about each service.
AirTrain and Shuttle Services
How do you transfer between terminals? The fastest and most popular method is the Aerotrén, a light rail system that connects T1 and T2. The ride itself is quick, taking only about five minutes. However, there’s a catch: access is restricted to passengers with a valid boarding pass or flight itinerary.
If you don’t have a boarding pass, you can use the shuttle bus service. These red buses run between the two terminals and are available to the general public for a small fee. They are a reliable transfer option, though the journey can take longer depending on airport traffic.
Here are the key details for inter-terminal transport:
- Aerotrén: Runs from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM. Access in T1 is at Puente de Pilotos (Pilots’ Bridge), and in T2, it’s near Gate M. You must show a boarding pass.
- Shuttle Bus: Available for the general public. Find them at Puerta 6 (Gate 6) in Terminal 1 and Puerta 4 (Gate 4) in Terminal 2.
- Frequency: Both services run frequently throughout the day, ensuring you can make your connection.
Walking Routes and Accessibility
Due to the distance and the runways separating them, there are no practical walking routes between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You must use the Aerotrén or shuttle bus to transfer from one terminal to the other. Attempting to walk would be unsafe and is not permitted.
Inside each terminal, however, walking is straightforward. The layouts are well-signed, and both terminals are equipped with features to improve accessibility. You will find elevators, ramps, and moving walkways to assist you, especially in the long corridors of Terminal 1. These facilities are designed to help passengers with reduced mobility, families with strollers, and anyone with heavy luggage.
The Mexico City Airport is committed to providing a comfortable experience for all travelers. If you require special assistance, such as a wheelchair or transport in a mini-vehicle, it’s best to arrange it with your airline in advance. Airport staff are also available to help guide you.
Arrivals at Mexico City Airport
Your plane has landed at Mexico City International Airport—welcome! The arrivals process is your first step into the vibrant capital. Once you deplane, you’ll be guided toward the immigration and customs area.
For international arrivals, the process involves a few key steps: clearing immigration, collecting your luggage, and then passing through a final customs check. It’s a standard procedure at any major international airport, and knowing what to expect can make it quicker.
Immigration and Customs Process
Upon arrival from international flights, your first stop is immigration. Here, you’ll present your passport and any required visa or tourist card to an agent. Lines can be long during peak hours, so be prepared for a wait. After getting your passport stamped, you’ll proceed to baggage claim.
Once you have your bags, you’ll move on to the customs area. Mexico uses a red light/green light system. You’ll press a button; a green light means you can pass through, while a red light means your luggage will be inspected. This process is random. Be aware of duty-free allowances to avoid any issues.
For a smooth arrival, have these items ready:
- Valid Passport
- Completed Immigration/Customs Form (if provided on the plane)
- Visa (if required for your nationality)
- Information about your accommodation in Mexico City
This part of the airport also has facilities like restrooms and currency exchange counters available right after you clear customs.
Baggage Claim and Lost Luggage
After clearing immigration, keep an eye on the overhead screens to find the correct carousel for your flight at the baggage claim. The arrivals hall at Benito Juárez International Airport can be quite busy, so it may take some time for the bags to start appearing. Be patient and make sure to grab the right suitcase.
What happens if your luggage doesn’t show up? If you experience lost luggage, don’t panic. Head to your airline’s baggage service office, which is typically located within the baggage claim area. You will need to file a report with your flight details and baggage tag information. The airline staff will then assist you in tracking it down.
These service desks are key facilities for handling such issues. Keep your baggage claim stubs until you are sure you have all your belongings. It’s also a good idea to have a photo of your luggage on your phone, as it can help airline staff identify it more easily.
Getting from the Airport to the City
You’ve made it through arrivals! Now, how do you get from the Mexico City Airport to the city center? Fortunately, you have several transportation options to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences. This is true whether you’re a visitor from the United States or anywhere else.
You can opt for the convenience of a pre-paid taxi or a rideshare, or use the city’s efficient public transit system. Let’s explore the best ways to continue your journey into Mexico City.
Authorized Taxis and Rideshares
One of the safest and most popular ways to get from the airport to the city center is by using authorized taxis. To do this, you must first buy a pre-paid ticket from one of the official taxi counters located inside the arrivals hall. Do not accept rides from solicitors in the terminal. The price is based on zones, so you’ll tell the agent your destination, pay the fixed rate, and receive a ticket.
Once you have your ticket, you’ll head outside to the designated taxi rank and join the line for your chosen company. Rideshare services like Uber and Didi are also available. You can book a ride through the app and meet your driver at a designated pickup point outside the terminal.
For a hassle-free transfer:
- Authorized Taxis: Look for “Taxi Seguro” counters. Buy your ticket inside before going out to the taxi stand.
- Rideshares: Use apps like Uber or Didi and follow the in-app directions to the pickup area.
Metro, Metrobús, and Public Transit Options
If you’re traveling light and want an affordable option, Mexico City’s public transit is a great choice. The airport is well-connected to the city’s transport network. The Metrobús Line 4 runs directly from both terminals to the historic city center. You’ll need to buy a rechargeable card to use it, but it’s a convenient and safe option.
Another one of the available transportation options is the Metro. Terminal 1 has its own station, Terminal Aérea, on Line 5. While it’s the cheapest way to travel, be aware that large luggage is officially not allowed, and it can get extremely crowded during peak hours.
Here are your main public transit choices:
- Metrobús: Line 4 connects T1 (Gate 7) and T2 (Gate 2) to the city center. Fares are affordable at M$30.
- Metro: Terminal Aérea station is a short walk from T1. A ticket costs only M$5. Best for those with only a backpack.
Travel Tips for a Smooth CDMX Airport Experience
A little preparation can make your journey through the airport in Mexico much more pleasant. Arriving with plenty of time, knowing what to expect at security checkpoints, and having a plan for your wait time are all key to a stress-free experience.
Whether you plan to grab a bite, relax in one of the airport lounges, or just get to your gate quickly, these tips will help you navigate the airport like a pro.
Security Checks and Safety Advice
Navigating security checkpoints at Benito Juárez International Airport is similar to other major airports. You’ll need to place laptops and other large electronics in a separate bin and follow regulations for liquids. Lines can be long, especially before major international flights, so it’s best to be prepared.
How early should you arrive for an international flight? The general recommendation is to arrive at least three hours before your departure time. For domestic flights, two hours is usually sufficient. This gives you plenty of time to check in, drop off your bags, and clear the security checkpoints without rushing.
For a smoother security process and overall safety:
- Have your passport and boarding pass ready.
- Pack liquids according to the 3-1-1 rule (3.4 oz or 100 ml).
- Keep your belongings in sight at all times.
- Only use authorized airport services to ensure your safety.
Staying Connected: Free Wi-Fi and SIM Cards
Staying connected at Mexico City Airport is easy. Is Wi-Fi available and is it free? Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals. You can connect to the network to check emails, browse the web, or let family know you’ve arrived safely. Some providers may offer a limited free session before prompting a paid service, but a basic free connection is generally accessible.
If you need a more reliable connection or plan to use a lot of data during your trip, consider buying a local SIM card. You can find kiosks and stores from major Mexican carriers like Telcel or AT&T within the airport terminals. This is often a more cost-effective option than using international roaming from your home provider.
Having a local number can be very useful for booking taxis, making reservations, and navigating the city. Getting your SIM card at the airport means you’ll be connected from the moment you step outside.
Conclusion
Navigating Mexico City’s airports can be a seamless experience with the right knowledge in hand. From understanding the differences between Benito Juárez International Airport and Felipe Ángeles International Airport, to knowing how to transfer between terminals efficiently, every detail matters for a stress-free journey. We’ve covered essential travel tips, key facilities, and transport options that will help you make the most of your time in CDMX. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, being well-informed is the key to enjoying your airport experience. Safe travels, and may your adventures in Mexico City be memorable! If you have any questions about your trip, feel free to reach out for personalized advice and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive for my flight at MEX or NLU?
For international flights, you should arrive at the Mexico City airport at least three hours early. For domestic flights from this main hub, two hours is generally enough. This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and clearing the often busy security checkpoints without feeling rushed.
Is Wi-Fi free at Mexico City airport?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for staying connected throughout Benito Juárez International Airport. You can connect to the airport’s network in the terminals, food courts, and even some airport lounges. While some providers may limit the free session time, a basic connection is accessible to all travelers.
Are there hotels inside or near the airport?
Yes, there are hotels conveniently located at the international airport. The Hilton Mexico City Airport is connected to Terminal 1, and the NH Collection Hotel is located in Terminal 2. There are also capsule hotels (IzZzleep) in Terminal 1 for short rests between flights.