AIFA's Cargo Expansion to Attract 27 Airlines

The Felipe Angeles International Airport (AIFA) will celebrate one month since the mandatory migration decree moving all cargo operations from the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) to its facilities. According to AIFA’s Director General, this move has represented significant growth, with the expected participation of 27 airlines and an increased cargo volume by the end of the year.

According to the Mexican Transportation Institute (IMT), air transportation represents 4.7% of all exports and 9% of all imports, accounting for 6.9% of the country's total foreign trade. The Federal Civil Aviation Agency reported that in July of this year, AIFA represented 12.1% of the total cargo handled by the country’s airports, becoming the third airport with the most cargo volume at 12,061.9t. From January to July 2023, AIFA handled 20,547.8t, representing 3% of the total cargo. Regarding international cargo, it is the second airport with the highest volume, handling 11,858.6t.

Isidoro Pastor, Director General, AIFA, mentioned that the cargo tonnage received at AIFA increases daily. He also stated that out of the 18 airlines that worked or transported cargo at AICM, 17 are now at AIFA, while the 18th has formed an alliance with AeroUnion. This is in addition to other airlines that have arrived for the first time with charter flights.

Pastor mentioned that 27 airlines are considering transporting cargo to AIFA in October. Of the 16 warehouses at the airport, 13 are for international cargo and three are for domestic cargo, all of which are already in use and operational. Pastor hopes to close the year with 110,000t of cargo.

UPS recently celebrated its 32nd year in Mexico and its 116th anniversary, highlighting its new operations at AIFA inaugurated on Aug. 28. UPS receives a daily flight at AIFA Monday through Friday, carrying up to 60 tons using a Boeing 767 model. That same plane leaves for the US, resulting in two daily operations.

Previously, in an interview with MBN, Francisco Ricaurte, President, UPS Latin America, mentioned that the company built its operations around three essential components: customers, people and shareholders, contributing to providing better export services.

Adriel Mateos, UPS Customs Brokerage Manager, mentioned that the successful migration from AICM to AIFA was achieved through collaborative efforts with authorities. UPS is committed to complying with the law and adjusting to the requirements of federal governments, he said. However, there are still opportunities for adaptability, especially in terms of understanding and sizing up the new spaces and distances, he highlights.