AICM Budget Jumps Sixfold in Mexico’s 2026 Proposal

Mexico’s federal government has proposed a budget allocation of over MX$3,000 million (US$175 million) for the modernization and repair of the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) in 2026. This represents a sixfold increase from the 2025 budget, which allocated MX$448.8 million for basic maintenance and MX$62.1 million for pre-investment studies. The funding aims to address long-standing infrastructure issues at the country’s busiest airport.

Of the 2026 allocation, MX$2,883 million is earmarked for major works, including resurfacing runways and platforms, upgrading terminal electromechanical systems, improving air conditioning, and acquiring firefighting and inspection vehicles. An additional MX$156.6 million is set aside for planning and feasibility studies. While no official documents link the allocation to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, government and city officials have indicated that upgrades are needed to accommodate the expected increase in international arrivals.

August proved particularly disruptive for AICM, with operations suspended twice due to torrential rains, affecting more than 34,000 passengers.  According to airport data, 120 flights were diverted, 120 delayed, and three canceled, exposing the airport’s vulnerability to extreme weather and highlighting the urgency of infrastructure improvements ahead of high-demand events.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening at Estadio Azteca on June 11, scrutiny of AICM’s operational stability is intensifying. Persistent infrastructure deficiencies, combined with climate-related risks, underscore the need for timely execution of the modernization plans to ensure smooth international and domestic travel during the tournament.

Investments are also underway at other major airports in Mexico. In Nuevo Leon, VINCI Airports is investing US$400 million (MX$7,451 million) to expand Monterrey International Airport via OMA, as part of broader public infrastructure plans. In Guadalajara, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico plans to invest MX$52,000 million (US$3 billion) between 2025 and 2029, including a new terminal that will boost capacity by 70% and allow for future runway expansion.