Mexico City is one of the most active travel centers in Latin America and one way of ensuring an easier journey, which is more pleasant, is knowing the airport you are going. This is the comprehensive guide to Mexico City airports, including all the information that the traveler should know, such as the type of airport to use and transportation, arrival and departure tips.
What Is the Number of Airports in Mexico City?
Mexico City and the metropolitan area have three major airports:
- International Airport (AICM) Mexico City International Airport (AICM) – Benito Juárez International Airport
- Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)
- Toluca International Airport (TLC)
All the Mexico City airports have various kinds of passengers, airlines, and flights.
1. Mexico City International Airport (AICM)
Airport Code: MEX
Distance to the city center: approximately 5 km (3 miles)
Compared to a significant number of Mexico City’s existing facilities, its size is large, making it a favorable location for the market segment targeted by the airline in its mission and vision (Schneider 45). The main and busiest airport in Mexico City airports is AICM, which serves most international flights and domestic flights.
Key Features
- There are two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2
- Metro access, bus access, taxi access, and ride-share access
- Nearest airport to the downtown Mexico City
- Most suitable to the first-time visitors
Best For
- International travelers
- Business travelers
- Visitors who are based in major locations such as Centro Histórico, Roma, Condesa, and Polanco
2. Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)
Airport Code: NLU
City proximity: approximately 45 km (28 miles)
The latest airport to be opened to ease the congestion in AICM is AIFA and is part of the Mexico City airports system.
Key Features
- New facilities and reduced congestion terminals
- Reduced landing charges (frequently low-fare flights)
- Few international routes as compared to AICM
- Greater commute time to the urban centre
Best For
- Budget travelers
- Domestic flights
- Those passengers who travel using airlines that are AIFA-based airlines
3. Toluca International Airport (TLC)
Airport Code: TLC
Closeness to metropolitan area: approximately 60 km (37 miles)
Toluca Airport is a smaller among the Mexico City airports and is used predominantly on domestic flights.
Key Features
- Smaller, quieter airport
- Few airlines and destinations
- Is situated outside the metro region
Best For
- Domestic travelers
- Those tourists spending the night in western Mexico City or Toluca
- Private and charter flights
Transportation from Mexico City Airports
From AICM
- Metro: Line 5 (Terminal 1)
- Authorized taxis
- Uber and ride-share services
- Buses to large terminals and local cities
From AIFA
- Airport buses to Mexico City
- Authorized taxis
- Rentals (always recommended because of distance)
From Toluca Airport
- Shuttle buses to Mexico City
- Taxis and private transfers
Mexico City Airports: What Airport Do You Prefer?
| Travel Type | Best Airport |
|---|---|
| International flights | AICM |
| Low-cost flights within the country | AIFA |
| Quick domestic trips | Toluca |
| First-time visitors | AICM |
| Less crowded airport | AIFA |
Traveling Through Mexico City Airports: Tips
- Coming early: Traffic is never predictable
- Check your terminal: AICM terminals are very distant
- Only authorized transport should be used
- Offline maps can be downloaded in case of weak Wi-Fi
- Have the records with you on immigration and customs
Final Thoughts
The knowledge of Mexico City airports is the main step towards a hassle-free vacation. Although AICM is still the best option among the majority of travelers, AIFA and Toluca are also good options based on your financial capacities, the airlines, and destinations. The appropriate selection of an airport may save time, money, and needless stress.
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