AICM to Finish Renovation by May 2025 Ahead of World Cup

Mexico City International Airport (AICM) expects to complete its ongoing renovation between late April and early May 2025, according to airport director Adm. Juan Padilla. The project, which reached 20% progress as of December, is intended to prepare the airport for increased traffic ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when Mexico will host the opening match. Padilla said the goal is to finish all construction that affects passengers by May 15.

Padilla Olmos acknowledged that unexpected complications have affected the schedule. “We have had eventualities. Because of the magnitude of the project, we have encountered situations,” he said. He cited one incident in which repairs to a restroom caused failures in an adjacent facility due to the lack of isolation valves. The director said the renovation addresses infrastructure that has gone without adequate maintenance. “This is an airport that did not receive the necessary maintenance for 14 years,” he said.

He stressed that disruptions for travelers are expected but temporary. “We would like to have a magic wand to cause the least number of inconveniences. We offer an apology to users for the discomfort, but I assure you that the effort and the situations they are experiencing will be worth it,” he said in a radio interview. He added that the airport will “accelerate work in December” to close the year at “30% to 35% progress.”

The renovation centers on functional upgrades across operational areas. Work includes replacing baggage-claim conveyor belts, rehabilitating waiting areas, improving connection corridors, and making adjustments in high-traffic zones. The modernization aims to support the expected rise in international arrivals, including national teams and visitors who will begin entering Mexico days before the June 11, 2026 inauguration match at Estadio Azteca.

Padilla Olmos said the project timeline was designed to avoid operational disruptions during peak travel periods. He noted that the December holiday season will pressure passenger flow beginning Dec. 12, but said the airport is prepared to handle demand despite construction. “A very important test was the Mexico City Grand Prix, and we resolved it,” he said, referencing the airport’s ability to manage surges in traffic.

Authorities maintain that the airport will be fully operational ahead of the World Cup. “For 2026, we will have a better airport than the one we have now,” Padilla said, adding that no construction affecting travelers should remain by mid-May.