Mexico City Airport Renovation Reaches 35% Completion

Mexico City International Airport is undergoing a comprehensive renovation aimed at reducing waiting times, improving security processes, and extending the operational life of its two terminals ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The project spans approximately 170,000 square meters across Terminals 1 and 2 and is being carried out in stages to ensure uninterrupted airport operations throughout construction.

Arturo Flores, the captain coordinating the works, said the renovation focuses on passenger circulation, security and migration controls, baggage handling, and core infrastructure systems. As of the most recent site visit, the project had reached 35% overall physical progress, with several remodeled areas already in service while others remain under construction.

“The renovation is not just aesthetic,” Flores said during a walkthrough. “Electrical, hydraulic, sanitary, air-conditioning, and other systems are being replaced because, due to their age, they no longer meet the airport’s current operational needs.”

Airport officials expect that by mid-2026, millions of travelers will experience a markedly different airport environment compared with conditions prior to the start of construction in June 2025. One of the most visible changes involves passenger flow. Commercial modules that previously obstructed corridors and walkways are being removed, and transit areas are being widened to reduce congestion, particularly during peak travel periods.

Waiting lounges are also being reconfigured. New seating is replacing outdated furniture, and layouts are being adjusted to better align with current aircraft sizes and passenger volumes. “Passenger spaces are being prioritized,” Flores said. “In many lounges, analysis showed that seating capacity no longer matched the size of aircraft or the number of users waiting simultaneously.”

Security screening is a central component of the upgrade. The airport is installing tomography scanners to replace traditional X-ray machines, enabling three-dimensional inspection of carry-on baggage and reducing the need for manual checks. The number of security lanes for passengers, suppliers, and operational staff is also being increased. According to Flores, average security screening times have fallen from approximately 20 minutes to around five minutes under normal operating conditions.

Immigration areas are being modernized with automated entry gates, or e-Gates. Six units are currently in operation, with plans to expand to 20 per terminal. The systems use biometric passport data to verify traveler identities automatically. “It is a faster and less invasive process,” Flores said. “The equipment identifies the passenger and issues alerts only when necessary.”

Baggage claim areas will incorporate pyramid-style conveyor systems designed to double luggage circulation capacity. Installation is scheduled for completion before the construction pause associated with the World Cup.

Beyond passenger-facing improvements, the renovation includes critical infrastructure upgrades, such as a redesigned rainwater drainage system in Terminal 1 and structural reinforcements to comply with current regulations. “That is what passengers do not see, but it is essential for the airport to function,” Flores said.