Mexico City Airport Boosts Flight Capacity to 46 Operations per Hour
Mexico City International Airport (AICM) will soon handle more flights per hour. The country’s Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) gave the green light for an increase to 46 operations. This change comes after years of pressure from airlines and US transport authorities. The decision was made official on 27 March 2023, following a detailed review of airport capacity. A study by Mexico’s Air Navigation Services (Seneam) confirmed the airport could manage the rise. The move also complies with national aviation regulations.
Operations at AICM had previously been cut back. In 2022, the limit dropped from 61 to 52 flights per hour due to overcrowding in terminal buildings. By 2023, airspace restrictions further reduced this to 43. The new approval reverses that trend.
Key to the expansion was the construction of three rapid-exit taxiways on Runway 05R. The first is already finished, while the second will be ready by late May 2023. The third, however, won’t be completed until the end of 2026.
Before the approval, AFAC received two critical reports. On 24 March, airport officials submitted a study on terminal capacity. The next day, Seneam provided an airspace assessment and an airside evaluation. These documents helped justify the increase.
AFAC has also ordered AICM to monitor the changes closely. The airport must ensure smooth operations and maintain service quality for passengers. The higher flight rate is set to begin this summer. The increase to 46 operations per hour marks a significant shift for one of Latin America’s busiest airports. Airlines and US authorities had long pushed for this change. With new taxiways and updated studies, AICM is now preparing for a busier summer season.
