Mexico City Airport
In 2019, Mexico City Airport handled over 50 million passengers and it is currently the busiest airport in Mexico and Latin America. The airport caters to a majority of flights operated by Aeromexico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus. For those travelling from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to the city center, transportation options include metro, bus, and taxi. It is recommended that individuals with a lot of luggage opt for a taxi.
Mexico City now has two airports since 2022. The new airport, called Mexico City Felipe Ángeles International Airport, is situated 45 kilometres or 28 miles north of the city center.
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Mexico City has an airport (IATA: MEX) that operates a large number of flights within Mexico, internationally, and intercontinentally, making it a connection point between Latin America, the United States, and Canada. In 2022, the airport served 46.2 million passengers. It is located 10km east of the historic center of Mexico City.
The airport has two main terminals, T1 and T2, that are both open 24 hours a day and located 2 km away from each other. They are connected by an Aerotren, which is only available to passengers with valid boarding passes and all crew members, and buses for the general public. T1 is where most airlines operate, while T2 is mainly used by AeroMexico for all its operations, as well as Aeromar, Copa, Delta, and Wingo. For more information on how to connect between the terminals, please refer to the “connection between terminals” section.
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There are many amenities available at both terminals, including restaurants, cafes, and bars. Some of these are open 24 hours and there are also a variety of shops. These include duty-free shops (mostly in T1), clothing stores, perfumeries, stores selling regional products, bookstores, electronics stores, phone accessory stores, and more. Additionally, there are 24-hour services such as currency exchange, banking, convenience stores, VIP lounges, postal services, luggage storage, and emergency medical services.
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The Hilton Mexico City Airport is situated on level 3 of T1, while the NH Collection Mexico City Airport T2 is situated on the 6th floor of Terminal 2. However, the Courtyard by Marriott Mexico City Airport and the Camino Real Aeropuerto are linked to Terminal 1 by pedestrian walkways.
There are izZzleep capsules available on the upper floor of T1 and the ground floor of T2. Additionally, there are other alternatives nearby, including counters inside the terminals and transfer services for their guests.
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There are taxi counters in both the arrival halls and the ambulatory area. To travel to the Historic Center (Zocalo), expect to pay around 250 to 350 MXN. Alternatively, you can use Uber or Cabify, which are much more affordable, with prices ranging from 150 to 180 MXN.
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Intercity buses depart from both terminals to various cities in the country.
The Metrobus route 4 provides transportation from the airport to the historic center and other attractions like the Museum of the City, Paseo de la Reforma, Fine Arts, and more. It stops at gate 7 in Terminal 1 and gate 2 in Terminal 2.
The hotel transportation service (Shuttle) is available at Gate 4 of Terminal 1. If you are in Terminal 2, you can request the service on the ground floor at each hotel.
The Terminal Aérea station of Metro line 5 is located on Boulevard Puerto Aéreo at the corner of Av. Capitán Carlos León González, next to Terminal 1 of AICM. This metro line runs from Politécnico to Pantitlán stations.
The car rental companies at Mexico’s international airport are located in Terminal 1 for both national and international rental services, and in Terminal 2 for international arrivals specifically in the bank area.
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Airlines flying to/from AICM
Mexico City international airport has several VIP lounges. Majority of the lounges are located in Terminal 1, but there are also VIP lounges available in Terminal 2.
There are three parking lots available. Two are located in T1 (national area and international area) while the other one is in T2 and is general. All three parking lots have camera security systems, toilets, elevators, and a check-in area. Additionally, they offer free transportation in mini-vehicles from the parking lot to the terminal entrance for people with disabilities, the elderly, and pregnant women.
Frequently Asked Questions at Benito Juárez Airport
To reach the Zócalo of Mexico City from the Mexico City International Airport (AICM), there are multiple transportation options available.
To get to the Zócalo quickly and cheaply, take the Metro. Take line 5 (yellow) towards Pantitlán for 2 stops, then switch to line 1 (pink) towards Observatorio and ride for 9 stations until you reach Pino Suárez. From there, it’s just a 9-minute walk to the Zócalo station. A single ticket costs MXN 5.00.
However, if you want a more comfortable means of public transportation to get to the historic center and other significant areas of the city, you can opt for the Metrobus. It is pricier (MXN 30.00) and travel time can reach up to an hour depending on the traffic. It has stops in both T1 and T2.
The Metrobús Line 4 travels along Eje 2 Oriente and stops at Plaza de la República station, which is where the Monument to the Revolution is located, after passing through San Lázaro station. You can easily get to the historic center and reach the Zócalo in a few minutes by walking from there.
At the airport, there is an authorized taxi service available. They charge a fixed rate based on your destination and you pay before getting into the taxi. If you prefer to use Uber or Cabify, you should check the app and agree to a pick-up point with your driver.
Foreign visitors are currently not subject to any entry restrictions or specific requirements such as quarantine or health tests, regardless of their vaccination status and purpose of travel. However, individuals displaying symptoms of COVID-19 may be subject to additional health testing or quarantine measures.
It is possible that wearing masks is still required or recommended in certain enclosed areas or when using public transportation. Please verify with your airline or the Mexican consulate in your country for further information.
To find the pick-up locations for Uber or EasyTaxi at AICM airport, go to Terminal 1, outside Gate 4, or Terminal 2, on the ground floor, outside Gate 2. Remember that the pick-up locations may change, so check the app after requesting a ride to confirm. The fare to downtown areas and neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma, and Polanco ranges from MXN$150 to MXN$180.
The CDMX WiFi network is available for free and with no time limit in the boarding halls, corridors, and food areas of T1 and T2 at the AICM. Simply search for the network named “CDMX-Internet para todos”. There’s also an Emergency WiFi network available for first aid use in case of a disaster.
The airport consists of two terminals, namely T1 and T2, which are open 24 hours a day. They are located 3 km away from each other and are connected by a free Aerotren service. However, only passengers with a boarding pass and crew members are allowed to use this service. They must present their documentation and boarding card. Alternatively, buses are available for the general public at a cost of MXN$16 per single trip.
You can find the Movistar store at T1 Upper Floor by calling +52 800 888 8366. It is open from Monday to Sunday between 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Additionally, Telcel’s store, which can also be found at T1, is open from Monday to Sunday between 09:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m. You can purchase SIM cards and plans from both stores.
Both terminals at Benito Juarez airport have plenty of shops, duty-free options, restaurants, bars, and cafes – many of which operate around the clock. Additionally, there are VIP lounges available 24/7 in both T1 and T2. These lounges are a great choice if you have a connecting or canceled flight, need to check-in early in the morning, or just want a relaxed environment for breakfast, buffet lunch, snacks, drinks, rest, or work.
There are rest capsules called izZzleep available on the upper floor of T1 and lower floor of T2. They are ideal for short rests or one night stay. Additionally, there are hotels available, including The Hilton Mexico City Airport in T1 and NH Collection Mexico City Airport in T2. For those who prefer walking, the Courtyard by Marriott Mexico City Airport and also the Camino Real Aeropuerto are connected to Terminal 1 by pedestrian walkways.
To report lost luggage, get in touch with your airline or visit their counter at the airport. If you have misplaced any belongings within the terminals, proceed to the office for forgotten and lost items. You can find this office in Terminal 1 on the first level, between gate 4 and gate 5, beside the movistar module. The phone number is 2482-2289. In Terminal 2, you can find the office on the ground floor in the Banks area with the phone number 2598-7169. The office is open from Monday to Friday, 08:00 a.m. to 09:30 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The luggage storage facilities are available round the clock throughout the year. It costs MX$150 for each locker. You can find them at Terminal 1 in halls A and E2. You can call on (55) 5802 8467 to get more information. Additionally, you can find them at gates 3 and 4 in T2, and can call on (55) 4313 0259 to know more.
There are left-luggage services available near the airport that you can use as an option. Here are some of them:
Both terminals have multiple currency exchange counters including Globo Cambio Exchange, Eurodolar, Sarje’s, Travelex, and others. Some of these counters operate round the clock. In addition, there are ATMs available in both terminals that allow you to withdraw Mexican pesos using an international debit or credit card. Some of these ATMs also enable you to withdraw other foreign currencies.
Make sure you prepare yourself for Mexico City’s elevation to avoid altitude sickness.
At the airport, there are multiple banks available that offer a variety of banking services including currency exchange. Some of the bank branches found in AICM are listed as follows:
The following banks have locations in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the airport:
Please note that both ATMs and bank branches may offer an unfavorable exchange rate and charge additional commissions. Moreover, there could be differences in prices among exchange houses. Therefore, it is recommended to compare different options to determine the most convenient one before carrying out any transactions.
Tax refund services for foreigners are available at several companies in both Terminals 1 and 2 of the Mexico City International Airport (AICM).:
Before requesting a tax refund, it is recommended to check the specific requirements and procedures of each company as they may vary.
There are medical services available 24/7 at T1 (near gate 7) and T2 (near gate 7). These services provide assistance to passengers, visitors, and airport workers and have all the necessary utensils. There are also ambulances available to transfer anyone in need to different hospitals in the city. The doctor and nurse on duty will be responsible for receiving requests and providing care.
If there is a medical emergency at the airport, please inform airport staff right away or dial 911, which is the airport’s emergency number, to request for urgent medical aid.
The Benito Juarez airport offers various facilities for people with disabilities, such as access ramps, elevators, pedestrian bands, restrooms, and adapted public telephony. Additionally, there are free mini-vehicle transportation options and touch strips at entrance doors. The airport has signs in Braille and other accommodations as well.
If you require a wheelchair during your trip, you need to request one beforehand from the airline. Additionally, preferential service lines are available for boarding or disembarking. If you plan on traveling with a pet or guide dog, it’s important to coordinate with the airline beforehand. Airlines offer special services for unaccompanied minors and elderly passengers, which include assistance to the plane or wheelchair service.
I recommend these travel resources for Mexico that I personally use:
🏨 Hotels: I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Mexico. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: To find the best flight deals to Mexico, I always use Kayak. Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia.
🚗 Rental Cars: I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation. Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.
🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Mexico, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Mexico. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master, whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.
📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro, It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.
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