Mexico City Airport Renovation for 2026 World Cup Reaches 15%

The Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is undergoing a major MX$8.5 billion (US$460 million) renovation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. AICM General Director Juan José Padilla said the project is currently 15% complete and is expected to reach 70–80% progress by the tournament’s start on June 11, 2026.

“The goal is to have a fully functional airport for the World Cup. In a few months, people will be proud of this airport,” Padilla told Bloomberg after inspecting both terminals on Oct. 10.

The renovation, which began in May 2025, is scheduled for substantial completion between April and May 2026. Operated by Mexico’s Secretariat of the Navy, the work focuses on structural rehabilitation, drainage upgrades, and passenger area reconfiguration to improve efficiency and reliability. About MX$3 billion has already been invested, with equipment contracts slated for early 2026 delivery.

A key element is replacing the airport’s aging drainage system. Heavy rains in August 2025 flooded the runways and suspended operations for ten hours. “We are replacing 100% of the main drainage network and connecting it to the interceptor on the street,” said Jesús Manuel González Vallarino, Deputy Director of Land Construction. Juan Manuel Muñoz, Corporate Director of Airside Construction, added, “We have plans to prevent flooding on the runways.”

Padilla noted that the airport’s seven pumping stations operate at 60% capacity, with three among the oldest. While no new stations will be built before the World Cup, all will be fully rehabilitated to handle heavy rainfall. “Maintenance, cleaning, rehabilitation, and de-silting units will ensure proper drainage,” he said.

The renovation emphasizes functionality over expansion. Security and inspection checkpoints are a major upgrade: Terminal 1’s main security area now has 13 inspection lines, up from six, while Terminal 2’s checkpoint receives new X-ray equipment. “Eighty percent of complaints are about reaching gates faster and cleaner restrooms. We expect a 25% reduction in waiting times,” González said.

Other improvements include new flooring, lighting, air conditioning, baggage belts, restrooms, and electrical systems. Terminal 1 focuses on the main corridor and international check-in, while Terminal 2 updates the baggage claim area, aerotrén corridor, and passenger filters.

To enhance mobility, commercial space has been reduced by 25%. “We removed three stores in one waiting hall and added seating and flight information screens,” González said. Officials noted airport revenue will remain stable thanks to the Airport Use Fee (TUA).

Padilla said passenger-facing areas will be ready for the World Cup, while work on administrative offices and warehouses will continue through late 2026. A 9.14-meter Adidas Trionda soccer ball now stands at Terminal 2’s traffic circle, and murals celebrate Mexico City as host of the tournament’s opening match at Estadio Azteca.

AICM handles 125,000 passengers daily, or 46 million annually, and expects around 5 million additional visitors during the World Cup. Construction will resume in August to complete the remaining 20–30% of the project, with final delivery by the end of 2026.