OMA to Invest MX$8 Billion in Monterrey Airport Expansion

Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte (OMA) is investing MX$8 billion (US$480 million) in Monterrey International Airport between 2026 and 2030 to position the facility as Mexico’s primary aviation hub. The plan includes MX$128.5 million (US$7.6 million) already allocated to passenger-processing technologies, as the airport prepares for increased demand linked to the FIFA World Cup 2026 and long-term traffic growth. Monterrey currently handles 15.5 million passengers annually, making it the largest airport within OMA’s 13-terminal network.

Ricardo Dueñas Espriú, CEO, OMA, said the investment reflects both current demand and future capacity requirements. “We are experiencing one of our best moments, which is why we are preparing to deliver one of the best facilities. Our ambition is for Monterrey to become the most important airport in the country,” he said. The Monterrey allocation forms part of a broader MX$16 billion (US$940 million) capital expenditure program across OMA’s network over the same five-year period.

Recent upgrades at Monterrey focus on automation and operational efficiency. The airport has installed eGates with an investment of MX$5.2 million (US$0.30 million), deployed 17 self-service bag-drop units valued at MX$24.2 million (US$1.38 million), and implemented 12 automated immigration filters costing MX$99.1 million (US$5.66 million). Additionally, OMA introduced a flight information system across its airports with a total investment of MX$7.1 million (US$0.41 million), aimed at improving passenger flow and information accuracy.

Raful Zacarías, COO, OMA, said the technology upgrades are designed to enhance the passenger experience while reducing operational costs for airlines. “Passengers do not perceive the airport as a standalone entity—they associate their experience with airlines like Volaris or Viva. It is a value chain focused on both experience and cost efficiency,” he said. He added that efficiency gains at the airport level translate into improved airline performance and customer outcomes.

Operational Scale Supports Hub Strategy

Monterrey serves as a testing platform for new technologies before deployment across OMA’s network. Zacarías said the company evaluates performance metrics before scaling solutions to airports such as Ciudad Juárez International Airport, Chihuahua International Airport, and Culiacán International Airport. “Based on the results, we analyze and expand to other airports. Some technologies, such as biometrics, must be tested here before being deployed at airports with international passenger demand,” he said.

Traffic distribution within the network supports this strategy. Monterrey processes 15.5 million passengers annually, compared with 3.5 million in Culiacan and approximately 2.5 million each in Ciudad Juarez and Chihuahua. This concentration allows OMA to prioritize Monterrey for infrastructure expansion and innovation deployment, positioning it as a central node in its operational strategy.

Short-term demand drivers include the FIFA World Cup 2026, expected to add between 250,000 and 300,000 passengers—an increase of 15% to 20% over typical levels. OMA said current investments are designed to accommodate both this temporary surge and sustained long-term growth, avoiding future capacity constraints.

Infrastructure expansion includes a new boarding lounge with three gates in Terminal A, created by repurposing existing office space. The project is expected to increase capacity by nearly 1 million passengers annually. A broader terminal expansion is also underway, with completion expected in the coming years as part of the airport’s long-term development plan.

OMA is also investing in ground connectivity to improve access. Projects include a suburban bus station with capacity for three buses and a light rail terminal designed to handle up to 500 passengers. The bus station is expected to be operational before the World Cup, while the light rail connection is scheduled for completion by year-end.

Financial Performance and Regulatory Outlook

OMA reported total revenue of MX$15.96 billion (US$939 million) in 2025, a 5.9% increase from MX$15.07 billion (US$887 million) in 2024. The company attributed the growth to aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues, which reached MX$13.65 billion (US$803 million), up 11.8% year over year. Management said improved tariff conditions and higher passenger traffic were the main drivers.

Construction revenue declined 19.1% to MX$2.31 billion (US$136 million), compared with MX$2.86 billion (US$168 million) in 2024. OMA said the decrease reflects project timing within its concession portfolio and does not affect medium-term investment plans. The company confirmed that capital commitments remain aligned with regulatory requirements governing airport infrastructure development.

In December 2025, OMA secured approval for its Master Development Program for 2026–2030 from Mexico’s transport authorities. The plan includes committed investments of MX$16.01 billion (US$942 million) and provides visibility on capital allocation for capacity expansion and service improvements. Management said the program will also support updated tariff structures, strengthening revenue streams and operational efficiency.