Mexico City’s primary international airport — officially known as Mexico City International Airport (MEX), or Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (AICM) — is the country’s foremost aviation hub and one of the busiest in Latin America. For decades, travelers referred to it as the Distrito Federal (DF) airport, a name rooted in the capital’s former administrative designation. Though Mexico City was formally renamed Ciudad de México (CDMX) in 2016, the search for “Distrito Federal Mexico airport” remains common, and this guide is designed to serve every traveler seeking reliable, up-to-date information about navigating MEX.
Whether you are arriving for the first time, connecting between terminals, or planning your departure, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.
At a Glance: Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (AICM) |
| Common Name | Mexico City International Airport |
| IATA / ICAO Codes | MEX / MMMX |
| Location | Venustiano Carranza borough, 5 km east of downtown Mexico City |
| Terminals | 2 (Terminal 1 & Terminal 2) |
| Annual Passengers (2025) | ~44.6 million (busiest airport in Mexico) |
| Runways | 2 (05R/23L & 05L/23R, parallel configuration) |
| Elevation | 2,230 m (7,316 ft) — classified as a hot and high airport |
| Daily Operations | Approximately 850 aircraft movements per day |
MEX holds the distinction of being not only the busiest airport in Mexico but also one of the three busiest in Latin America. Its location within a dense urban environment — situated in the Peñón de los Baños neighborhood of the Venustiano Carranza borough — places it in close proximity to central Mexico City, making it an exceptionally convenient point of entry for most travelers.
Which Airlines Fly from MEX?
Major Airlines and Hub Operations
Mexico City International Airport serves as the principal hub for Mexico’s largest carriers. Aeroméxico, a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, operates its primary hub from Terminal 2, offering extensive domestic and international connectivity. Volaris and Viva Aerobus both maintain significant operations at MEX, providing competitive low-cost domestic and regional routes. Magnicharters uses the airport as a focus city for charter operations.
The airport’s international reach is substantial. Major carriers from North America — including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Air Canada — maintain regular service. European carriers such as Air France, KLM, Iberia, British Airways, and Lufthansa operate long-haul routes, while ANA (All Nippon Airways) provides connectivity to Asia. Avianca and other Latin American airlines round out the regional network.
Destinations
MEX connects passengers to an extensive domestic network spanning every major Mexican city. Internationally, the airport serves destinations across North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia — making it an effective gateway for both business and leisure travelers.
Understanding MEX’s dual-terminal structure is essential for a smooth experience. The two terminals are operationally distinct and separated by a meaningful distance, so knowing your terminal assignment before you arrive is critical.
Terminal 1 (T1)
Terminal 1 is the larger and older of the two facilities. It handles a wide range of domestic and international airlines, with check-in areas designated alphabetically: domestic operations are generally handled in Sections A through D, while international check-in takes place in Sections F1 through F3. Gates are numbered 1 through 36.
T1 offers comprehensive passenger amenities, including multiple food court options, retail shops, currency exchange kiosks, ATMs, and a long-distance bus terminal. VIP lounges in Terminal 1 include the Admirals Club (American Airlines) and the Salón Centurión, among others.
Terminal 2 (T2)
Terminal 2, the newer facility, is primarily dedicated to Aeroméxico and its SkyTeam alliance partners. The terminal features modern design, improved passenger flow, and the Pier L extension for additional gate capacity. Facilities include dining, retail, and dedicated check-in areas for SkyTeam carriers.
Connecting Between Terminals
Passengers who need to travel between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 — whether for a connecting flight or simply to reach a different check-in area — can do so via the AICM inter-terminal shuttle bus, which operates continuously and at no charge. The transit time between terminals is approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Passengers with tight connections should factor this transfer time into their planning, particularly during peak hours.
Ground Transportation: Getting To and From the Airport
MEX’s urban location provides access to a variety of ground transportation modes. Choosing the right option depends on your budget, the amount of luggage you are carrying, and your destination within the city.
Metro (Subway)
The most economical option for reaching the city center is Mexico City’s Metro system. Terminal Aérea station on Line 5 (yellow line) is connected to Terminal 1 and provides access to the broader Metro network. From Terminal Aérea, passengers can transfer to other lines to reach virtually any neighborhood in the city. The Metro is fast, inexpensive, and reliable — though it is not recommended for travelers with large amounts of luggage during peak rush hours, when trains can be extremely crowded.
Buses and Shuttles
A long-distance bus terminal is located within Terminal 1, offering connections to destinations across Mexico. This is a convenient option for travelers who wish to continue their journey by coach immediately upon landing. Shared shuttle services are also available for group transfers to hotels and city districts.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
For safety and price transparency, it is strongly advisable to use the official airport taxi system. Pre-paid taxi booths are located inside both terminals; passengers pay a fixed fare based on their destination zone before receiving a voucher and being directed to their assigned vehicle. This system eliminates the risk of inflated fares or unauthorized operators.
Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Didi are widely used at MEX, though pick-up regulations and designated areas are subject to change. Confirm current pick-up point locations upon arrival, as these may differ from standard street-level pick-up protocols.
Car Rentals
All major international car rental companies — including Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise — maintain desks at Mexico City International Airport. Rental counters are located in the arrivals hall of each terminal.
Parking
Terminal 1 features an on-site parking structure with capacity for approximately 5,500 vehicles. Short-term and long-term parking rates are available. Given the availability of public transit and taxi services, private vehicle parking is most commonly used by local residents or long-term travelers.
Passenger Services and Amenities
VIP Lounges
MEX offers a substantial selection of airport lounges catering to premium passengers, frequent flyers, and eligible credit card holders. In addition to airline-specific lounges such as the Admirals Club (American Airlines), United Club, and Salón Premier (Aeroméxico), independent facilities like The Lounge by Global Network are accessible to passengers regardless of airline or ticket class, provided they hold eligible membership.
Lost and Found
Items lost within the airport are handled by the Oficinas de Objetos Olvidados (Lost and Found Offices). Passengers who believe they have left an item at the airport should contact these offices directly through the official AICM website, where contact information and claim procedures are published.
Hotels at the Airport
Three hotels are situated at or directly adjacent to the airport. The Camino Real Aeropuerto is physically connected to Terminal 1 via an indoor walkway, making it the most convenient option for travelers with early departures or late arrivals. The Hilton Mexico City Airport and the Courtyard by Marriott Mexico City Airport are also located within the airport complex and provide reliable accommodations for layover passengers.
Additional Facilities
MEX provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout both terminals. Banking services, ATMs, and currency exchange counters are available in both arrivals and departures areas. Souvenir shops, pharmacies, duty-free retail, and full-service restaurants complement the broader dining and retail offering. Clean and well-maintained restrooms are distributed throughout both terminals.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Before You Go: Prohibited Items and Documents
All passengers should familiarize themselves with Mexico’s customs and aviation security regulations before traveling. Standard international restrictions apply: liquids in carry-on baggage are limited to containers of 100 ml or less, sharp objects are prohibited in the cabin, and flammable materials are not permitted on board. The complete list of permitted and prohibited items is published on the official AICM website and should be consulted prior to packing.
Ensure that all required travel documents — including valid passports, visas (where applicable), and any required health documentation — are organized and accessible before arriving at the airport.
Arrival Times: How Early Should You Arrive?
For international departures, plan to arrive at least 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled flight time. MEX can experience significant congestion at check-in, immigration, and security screening, particularly during peak travel periods (holiday seasons, early mornings, and late afternoons). Arriving earlier than required is advisable when possible.
For domestic departures, an arrival of 1.5 to 2 hours in advance is generally sufficient, though travelers flying during peak hours should err on the side of arriving earlier.
Traffic in Mexico City can be unpredictable. Passengers driving to the airport or using ride-hailing services should account for potential delays, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
Checking Your Flight Status
Before leaving for the airport, always verify your flight’s status using the official real-time flight status tool available on the AICM website. Delays, gate changes, and terminal reassignments are not uncommon at a high-traffic facility like MEX, and confirming your flight status in advance can save considerable time and frustration.
Context: MEX and the Metropolitan Airport System
Mexico City is served by more than one airport. While MEX (Benito Juárez) remains the primary and overwhelmingly dominant gateway for international and domestic travel, two additional airports form part of the Metropolitan Airport System (Sistema Metropolitano de Aeropuertos):
Toluca International Airport (TLC), located approximately 70 km west of the city center, handles a limited number of domestic and regional flights. Travelers should be aware that some airlines may offer routes marketed as “Mexico City” that actually depart from or arrive at Toluca — confirm your airport assignment at the time of booking.
Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA / NLU), opened in 2022, is located approximately 50 km north of downtown Mexico City. It handles a growing number of domestic flights and some international services. Transfer time from the city center is considerably longer than for MEX.
When booking flights to or from Mexico City, always confirm which airport your itinerary uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official name of the Distrito Federal Mexico Airport?
The airport’s official name is Mexico City International Airport (MEX), also formally known as Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (AICM). The term “Distrito Federal” refers to the former administrative designation of Mexico City, which was renamed Ciudad de México (CDMX) in 2016.
How far is the airport from downtown Mexico City?
The airport is located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) east of the Zócalo (Mexico City’s central plaza), in the Venustiano Carranza borough. Travel time to the city center varies from 15 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
How many terminals does MEX have, and which airlines use each?
MEX has two terminals. Terminal 1 is the larger facility and serves a broad range of domestic and international airlines. Terminal 2 is primarily dedicated to Aeroméxico and its SkyTeam partners. Always confirm your terminal assignment with your airline before arriving at the airport.
What is the best way to get from MEX Airport to a hotel in Mexico City?
The best option depends on your priorities. The Metro (Line 5 from Terminal Aérea station) is the fastest and most economical choice. Authorized pre-paid airport taxis offer a safe and fixed-price alternative. Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Didi) are widely used. Pre-booked private shuttles are recommended for those traveling with significant luggage or in groups.
Is MEX the same airport as “Benito Juárez” or “AICM”?
Yes. Benito Juárez International Airport, AICM, and MEX all refer to the same facility — Mexico City International Airport. MEX is the IATA airport code; MMMX is the ICAO code.
How early should I arrive for an international flight from MEX?
Plan to arrive at least 2 to 3 hours before your international departure. During peak travel periods or holiday seasons, earlier arrival is advisable.
What items are prohibited in carry-on luggage at Mexico City Airport?
Standard international restrictions apply: no liquids over 100 ml, no sharp objects, and no flammable materials in carry-on bags. Consult the official AICM website for the complete and current list of permitted and prohibited items.
Are there hotels inside or connected to the airport?
Yes. The Camino Real Aeropuerto is directly connected to Terminal 1 via an indoor walkway. The Hilton Mexico City Airport and Courtyard by Marriott are also situated within the airport complex.
I lost an item at the airport. Who do I contact?
Contact the Oficinas de Objetos Olvidados (Lost and Found Offices). Details on how to file a claim are available on the official AICM website under the relevant section.
Is MEX the only airport serving Mexico City?
No. MEX is part of a metropolitan airport system that also includes Toluca International Airport (TLC) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA/NLU). However, MEX remains the primary hub for the vast majority of domestic and international traffic in the region.
Conclusion
Mexico City International Airport — historically referred to as the Distrito Federal airport and officially known as Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (AICM/MEX) — is a world-class aviation facility connecting Mexico to the globe. Navigating it confidently requires understanding its dual-terminal structure, ground transportation options, and the broader context of the metropolitan airport system.
Use this guide as your authoritative reference before and during your journey. For real-time flight information, terminal maps, and the most current security regulations, always refer to the official AICM website.
