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Frequently Asked Questions at Benito Juárez Airport
Answers to the most common questions from AICM passengers
Traveling through Mexico City Airport goes beyond finding your boarding gate; it raises practical questions that can define your experience. What is the safest way to get transportation upon leaving? Where can you store your luggage for a few hours? Is the information on the screens reliable? To help you move with the confidence of an expert traveler, we have compiled the most recurring questions and given them clear, direct answers, based on the experience of thousands of passengers.

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What is the cheapest and safest way to get from the airport to the city center (Zócalo)?
It depends on your priority between cost, safety, and comfort:
- The cheapest: The Metro (MXN 5.00). It's fast but highly not recommended if you have large suitcases, as the station has no escalators.
- The safest: Authorized taxis. You buy a ticket with a fixed fare at an official kiosk inside the terminal, eliminating the risk of scams. It is the most expensive option.
- The best balance: Apps like Uber or Didi. They are significantly cheaper than official taxis and generally safe, although they require you to walk to a meeting point outside the terminal.
Where do I wait for my Uber or Didi?
The meeting points are outside the terminals to avoid congestion. In Terminal 1, the pickup is usually on Circuito Interior Boulevard Puerto Aéreo. In Terminal 2, on Avenida Fuerza Aérea Mexicana. However, these points can change. The golden rule is: always check the exact location indicated by the app when requesting the ride and communicate with your driver.
Is there free WiFi at the airport?
Yes, AICM offers access to a free and unlimited-time Wi-Fi network in most public areas. Look for the network named “Gratis_CDMX_Aeropuerto”. The signal quality may vary, but it is sufficient for basic tasks. Using a VPN is recommended for security.
Where can I buy a SIM card?
On the upper floor of both terminals, you will find stores of Mexico's main telephone operators, such as Telcel and Movistar. There are also multi-brand stores like MOBO. They are the best option for purchasing a SIM card with a local data plan to avoid high roaming costs.
Is it easy to move between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2?
The terminals are 3 km apart and you cannot walk between them. You have two options:
- Aerotrén (Airtrain): It is free and the fastest (less than 5 minutes travel time), but it is exclusive to passengers with a valid boarding pass and airport staff. Its main disadvantage is that the signage to find it is confusing.
- Connecting Bus: It is available to the general public, operates 24 hours, and has a low cost. It is the only option if you are not a passenger or if you are traveling late at night, but it is slower as it depends on traffic.
I have a long layover, what can I do at the airport?
The AICM offers several options. To rest, you can use the sleeping pods at izZzleep (T1 and T2), which can be rented by the hour or for the night. If you're looking for more comfort, you can access one of the many VIP lounges. There is also a wide range of restaurants and shops. If your layover is longer than 7 hours, you might consider taking a safe taxi for a quick visit to the historic center.
Why are there so many complaints about luggage theft? What can I do?
It is one of the most serious and recurring problems at AICM. It refers to the theft of belongings from checked bags. The best strategy is prevention:
- NEVER pack valuables (electronics, jewelry, money, important medications) in your checked luggage. Always carry them with you in your carry-on bag.
- Use TSA-approved locks or consider wrapping your suitcase in plastic as a deterrent.
- If you notice anything suspicious when you retrieve your suitcase, report it to your airline immediately, before leaving the baggage claim area.
What do I do if I lose something at the airport?
It depends on where you lost it. If it was on the plane, contact your airline directly. If it was in the common areas of the terminal, you should go to the corresponding lost and found office:
- Terminal 1: Upper level, above gate 2. (Tel +52 55 2482 2400 ext. 2289)
- Terminal 2: Ground floor, between gates 1 and 2. (Tel +52 55 2598 7000 ext. 7169)
The offices have limited hours, so it's best to call first.
Is there a 24-hour luggage storage service?
Where is it better to exchange money or find an ATM?
There are multiple currency exchange offices and ATMs from banks like BBVA and Banorte in both terminals. However, the exchange rates at the airport are usually less favorable than in the city. Tip: exchange only a small, essential amount for your initial expenses and look for better rates outside. Always compare between several exchange offices, as their rates vary.
Is it necessary to arrive more than 3 hours in advance for an international flight?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Many experienced travelers even suggest arriving 4 hours early. The AICM is known for its saturation, long check-in lines, and slow, chaotic security checkpoints. Added to this is the city's dense traffic to get to the airport. Arriving with plenty of time to spare is the best insurance policy against stress.
Can I find free drinking water at the airport?
No. This is one of the most recurrent complaints and a major disadvantage of the AICM. There are no drinking fountains or free water sources after the security check. You will be forced to buy water bottles in the shops, where the prices are considerably higher.
Why does my boarding gate change constantly or not appear on the screens?
This is a very common operational problem due to the airport's saturation. Gates are assigned late and changed frequently to manage the high volume of flights. The information screens are often not updated in time. The most reliable source of information is your airline's mobile app, which usually notifies of changes in real time.
Is there a place for children to play?
Yes, but they are very limited and of low quality. In Terminal 1, there is a small children's play area near gates 24-36. In Terminal 2, the kids' area is described by users as "a joke." Do not count on large entertainment spaces for the little ones.
Does the airport have air conditioning? Is it hot?
This is a very frequent complaint, especially in Terminal 1. Many travelers report that the air conditioning is insufficient or does not work well, creating a hot and stuffy environment, especially in the most crowded areas. It is recommended to wear light or layered clothing for comfort.
Are there emergency medical services?
Yes, the airport has medical services in both terminals to handle emergencies for passengers and staff. They are located at:
- Terminal 1: Domestic area, hall B (24 hours) and international area, near position 25 (limited hours).
- Terminal 2: Domestic area, near position 75 (24 hours).