SICT Responds to US on AIFA, AICM Operational Shifts

The Mexican Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport (SICT) outlined improvements at Mexico City’s two main airports in response to recent observations from the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding compliance with the bilateral aviation agreement. The federal government reported operational gains at the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and growth at the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), citing measurable efficiency improvements following adjustments in airport operations.

According to SICT, actions include the scheduled reduction of operations at AICM and the transfer of cargo flights to AIFA. These changes are part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the airport system within the Valley of Mexico. 

SICT referenced the 2023 Terminal Capacity and Service Level Study conducted at AICM, which highlighted saturation issues posing risks to passengers and failing to meet minimum service standards as per International Air Transport Association (IATA) criteria. Based on these findings, Mexico implemented a reorganization of airport operations prioritizing passenger safety and operational efficiency.

As a result of the measures, SICT reported a 22% reduction in runway occupancy time at AICM, driven by improved airspace management and reduced operational overload. The agency also documented an 83% decrease in migration wait times, from 45 minutes to eight minutes, and a 69% increase in security checkpoint efficiency, with wait times dropping from 22 minutes to seven minutes.

Additionally, AICM now ranks third globally in punctuality, attributed to reduced congestion and quicker processing times. “With an investment of MX$8 billion (US $427.2 million)  in runway, taxiway, and terminal rehabilitation, AICM has achieved the third position worldwide in punctuality,” the SICT announced.

Regarding AIFA, SICT reported substantial growth in cargo operations since their transfer from AICM. The number of cargo airlines increased by 161%, from 18 at AICM to 47 currently operating at AIFA. From February 2023 to July 2025, AIFA processed more than 843,000t of cargo, up from the 250,000t handled annually by AICM in 2022.

“AIFA offers total slot availability without time restrictions, supported by modern, robust, and specialized infrastructure,” SICT highlighted. The airport also benefits from coordinated efforts with federal, state, and municipal authorities to secure logistics routes and strategic land connectivity with key industrial and commercial corridors in central Mexico.

Mexico’s federal government stated that the decision to redistribute flights and transfer cargo operations was made to address operational risks and improve overall service quality. “The construction of AIFA improved operating and aviation safety conditions resulting from the saturation at AICM,” SICT said.

Mexico also emphasized continued collaboration with domestic and international aviation stakeholders. “The government will continue coordinated work with airlines, foreign authorities, and international organizations to ensure decisions translate into tangible benefits for passengers and sustainable growth for the air transport industry,” SICT concluded.