AICM Cuts Taxi Fares, Adds Uber and DiDi Pickup Zones

Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is reducing authorized taxi fares through a new incentive program while introducing designated pickup zones for ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and DiDi, marking a significant shift in its ground transportation policy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The measures follow years of disputes involving concessioned taxi operators, digital mobility platforms, and regulators. Airport authorities aim to improve passenger mobility, expand transportation options, and reduce congestion as Mexico prepares to welcome millions of visitors during the World Cup, which began on June 11, 2026.

Grupo Aeroportuario Marina announced a coordinated initiative with the airport’s 11 authorized taxi associations, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), and the National Institute of Administration and Appraisals of National Assets (INDAABIN) to lower operating costs for taxi concessionaires.

According to the airport operator, a review of operating expenses resulted in reductions to permit fees, vehicle decal costs, and commercial space charges, while vehicle inspection fees were eliminated altogether. The measures are expected to generate average savings of between MX$4,683 (US$252) and MX$14,084 (US$758) per taxi permit holder.

As a result, the 11 taxi associations operating at AICM have proposed fare discounts ranging from 5% to 50% off standard rates. Additional incentives include complimentary rides after a specified number of trips. Combined, the measures are expected to reduce passenger transportation costs by an average of 18%.

“The combined effect of these measures will provide an average 18% discount on ground transportation services,” Grupo Aeroportuario Marina said.

Airport authorities added that updated fare tables and promotional programs will be displayed at taxi sales points throughout the airport.

The fare reduction program is intended to strengthen the competitiveness of authorized airport taxis as travelers increasingly rely on app-based transportation services. The initiative also reflects growing pressure on airport operators to improve passenger experience and mobility efficiency ahead of the World Cup.

At the same time, AICM has begun implementing one of the most significant changes to airport ground transportation in recent years by enabling designated pickup areas for Uber, DiDi, and other ride-hailing platforms within airport terminals.

The decision follows years of conflict between concessioned taxi operators and digital mobility platforms over access to airport passengers. Under the new system, travelers can request rides through Uber, DiDi, or other authorized applications just as they would elsewhere in Mexico City. The key difference is that passengers are now directed to designated pickup zones located within airport facilities.

Airport officials said the measure is intended to improve passenger flow and eliminate the need for travelers to leave airport grounds or walk to nearby streets to meet their drivers. “The objective is to reduce crowding and prevent conflicts at the main terminal entrances,” airport authorities said.

Dedicated pickup areas have been established at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, although exact locations may vary depending on operational conditions, demand, and traffic levels. The introduction of these zones represents a notable policy shift following months of regulatory disputes involving ride-hailing operators at federal airports.

In March, tensions escalated when the National Guard intensified enforcement actions against Uber and DiDi drivers operating at AICM. Drivers reported vehicle seizures, detentions, and fines of up to MX$59,000 despite judicial injunctions that ride-hailing companies argued protected their operations.

In April, Mexico City's Ministry of Mobility (SEMOVI) rejected a proposed partnership between Uber and MX Taxi that would have allowed concessioned taxis to offer rides through the Uber platform.