AICM Begins Renovations Ahead of FIFA 2026 Amid Delays

Mexico City International Airport (AICM) has officially started the renovation of Terminal 1’s Concourse B, a 4,300m² space primarily serving domestic travelers. The remodeling aims to enhance the passenger experience through modern furniture, safer finishes, and more comfortable waiting areas. According to AICM, the work began this week and is expected to be completed by Sep. 30, 2025.

Key upgrades in Concourse B include the remodeling of walls, ceilings, and floors, the replacement of lighting and PA systems, general maintenance, and rooftop waterproofing. To ensure continued operations during construction, three temporary lounges will be available at gates 9, 13, and 20, complete with seating, information screens, and restrooms.

Beginning on June 30, additional renovations will start in the Aerotrén area of Terminal 2. This phase includes waterproofing, structural flashing repairs, facade restoration, lighting replacement, wall repainting, signage upgrades, new flooring, revamped pedestrian ramps, and air conditioning system replacements. While the first phase will last 35 days and maintain Aerotrén operations, the remaining tasks are scheduled for November, coinciding with planned maintenance to minimize passenger disruptions.

However, these efforts are unfolding under the shadow of delays and budget constraints. Despite federal government promises, AICM’s full renovation will not be completed before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a setback confirmed by Juan Padilla, Director General, AICM. Much of the originally allocated funding was redirected to the development of Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), which has slowed progress at AICM, as previously reported by MBN.

“We would like to be more prepared, but we will be reasonably ready. The new airport project delayed us somewhat, but we are moving forward,” says Padilla.

Work at AICM officially started on April 1, 2024, but logistical and financial challenges have caused delays. A pause in renovations is scheduled from May 31 to July 31, 2026, to accommodate increased passenger flow during the FIFA World Cup and avoid operational disruptions. Construction will resume on Aug. 1 and continue until Nov. 17, 2026.

Renovation contracts — covering both supervision and construction — were awarded through a restricted invitation process, raising transparency concerns. Still, authorities insist the changes are vital. “It will be uncomfortable for everyone, but ultimately, it will improve the airport,” says Padilla.

Despite delays, AICM remains Mexico’s main international gateway and is expected to welcome millions of visitors during the tournament. The federal government has earmarked MX$225 billion (US$12 billion) to upgrade six key airports in preparation for the FIFA World Cup, with MX$8 billion designated for AICM alone. These funds will support terminal expansions, runway improvements, and updated security systems. In total, 19 construction projects and 32 aviation infrastructure upgrades are underway at AICM.

Mexico will stage 13 matches across Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City, with over 9.7 million tourists expected to visit. Mexico City alone anticipates over 5 million visitors, with Estadio Banorte (formerly Estadio Azteca) hosting five matches.

To support this influx, nearby airports such as Toluca International Airport and Cuernavaca International Airport are being reactivated to reduce congestion at Mexico City’s main terminals. Other host cities are also ramping up infrastructure efforts. In Guadalajara, MX$2.6 billion is being invested in the Chapala highway to improve access to the airport. In Monterrey, authorities are advancing projects such as a second airport runway, metro expansions, and the pedestrian “FIFA Corridor,” MBN reports.