Mexico Sees 2.2% Increase in Air Tourists in 2024

Between January and November 2024, Mexico saw the arrival of 19.92 million international tourists by air, a 2.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This was reported by the Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora.

The data, provided by the Unit for Migration Policy of the Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB), reveals that the majority of these visitors came from three countries: the United States, Canada, and Colombia. Together, they contributed 15.5 million arrivals, representing a 4.2% increase from 2023 and a notable 29.4% rise compared to 2019, before the pandemic.

• United States remains the top source market, with 12.7 million visitors, up by 4.7% from the previous year.

• Canada ranked second, with 2.3 million visitors.

• Colombia also saw growth, with 562,875 tourists, continuing its upward trend as a growing market for Mexico.

The busiest airports for international arrivals were Cancun, Mexico City (AICM), and Los Cabos, which together accounted for 14.6 million visitors during the first 11 months of the year. Cancun continues to be the most popular destination, attracting tourists for its beaches and entertainment options.

Tourism Growth, Outlook

Josefina Rodríguez, Mexico’s Minister of Tourism, commented on the country’s tourism performance. "These results reflect the efforts to consolidate Mexico as a competitive tourist destination internationally, despite global challenges." She also emphasized the role of key markets in the sector’s growth. "Tourists from the United States, Canada, and Colombia led the list of international visitors, together accounting for 15.5 million arrivals, a 4.2% increase compared to 2023 and a notable 29.4% increase compared to the pre-pandemic levels of 2019."

Experts predict that the increase in international arrivals, along with higher spending per visitor, will positively impact Mexico’s tourism revenue. The expected rise in both the number of visitors and their average spending could boost the economic contribution of tourism.

Looking ahead to 2025, Rodríguez Zamora outlined plans for continued growth. "We expect to surpass current levels with strategies focused on market diversification, sustainability, and promoting new destinations."