AIFA Expands to Strengthen its Role as Mexico’s Cargo Hub

Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) is increasingly consolidating as Mexico’s leading cargo hub and a critical component of the nation’s airport infrastructure, say authorities. To strengthen its cargo operations, the airport plans to expand with six new warehouses, further solidifying its position as a key economic driver.

President Claudia Sheinbaum highlights the growth and consolidation of AIFA as a key element in the country’s airport infrastructure. She also announced plans to develop one of the Wellness Poles in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area, capitalizing on AIFA’s strategic location as a cargo transportation hub. Since its inauguration in March 2022, AIFA has steadily increased its passenger traffic, domestic and international routes, and cargo operations.

According to Isidoro Pastor, General Director, AIFA, the airport surpassed its break-even point in just two years and has created over 17,400 direct jobs and 150,000 indirect jobs. Between March 2022 and the end of 2024, AIFA will have transported nearly 9.8 million passengers. Additionally, it handled 581t of cargo, generating over US$5.87 billion in revenue for Mexico’s Tax Administration Service (SAT). Authorities plan to build six new warehouses to further strengthen its cargo capabilities.

Since its opening, AIFA has significantly expanded its flight offerings. In 2022, the airport operated just six domestic routes and one international route to Caracas, Venezuela. It now serves 37 domestic destinations and nine international destinations. The airport also offers 22 ground transportation connections within the Mexico City Metropolitan Area and 18 intercity routes to key cities across Mexico.

In 2024, AIFA is projected to generate US$134.33 million in revenue, exceeding its operational costs of US$116.86 million. The Mexican government also plans to enhance the Lake Texcoco Ecological Park, the largest of its kind in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area, as an emblematic environmental and social project.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT) , with support from SEDENA, is advancing plans to build a suburban train line between Lecheria and AIFA, set to begin in 2025. José Antonio Esteva, Head, SICT, highlights that the project will enhance AIFA’s accessibility and operational capacity, MBN reported.