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Pros and Cons of Mexico City Airport (AICM)
The AICM is an airport of contrasts. On one hand, it is the aerial heart of Mexico, with an unbeatable location and connectivity. On the other, it is an infrastructure operating far beyond its capacity, leading to recurring problems that frustrate travelers. To give you a clear and balanced view, here is a summary of its advantages and disadvantages, updated with the most recent passenger experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions: The Basics of AICM
What is the biggest advantage of AICM?
Undoubtedly, its location. Being within the urban area, just a few kilometers from the city center, makes it extremely accessible and convenient compared to other airports located on the outskirts of major capitals.
What is the biggest problem or disadvantage?
Extreme saturation. The airport is overwhelmed, which translates into almost all other problems: long lines for everything, constant delays, lack of seating, worn-out facilities, and a general feeling of chaos and stress.
vs Is there a big difference between Terminal 1 and 2?
Yes. Terminal 2 is considerably more modern, cleaner, and easier to navigate than Terminal 1, which is perceived as old, dark, and neglected. However, T2 also suffers from saturation during peak hours.
Is it a safe airport?
Generally speaking, yes. There is a strong police and navy presence. However, the main security risk reported by users is the theft of belongings from checked luggage and at security checkpoints. The supervision of baggage handling is the weak point.
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PROS: The positives of AICM
1. Central Location and Multiple Transportation Options
📍 Advantage: Its main asset is being within Mexico City, just about 5-10 km from the historic center. This drastically reduces travel times and costs.
User experience: Travelers greatly value being able to get to the city center quickly using affordable options like the Metro and Metrobús (if traveling with light luggage), or through the wide availability of ride-sharing apps like Uber and Didi.
2. Unsurpassed Air Connectivity
🌎 Advantage: As the country's main hub, it offers the largest number of direct flights to both domestic and international destinations in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
User experience: It is the preferred option for connections, as it centralizes most routes and airlines, facilitating complex travel itineraries without the need to switch airports.
3. Wide Variety of Services and Shops
🛍️ Advantage: The airport functions like a small city, with a vast offering of restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, currency exchanges, banks, and VIP lounges.
User experience: You will always find a place to eat or buy last-minute items. Restaurants like Maison Kayser and VIP lounges like the Amex Centurion Lounge are consistently well-regarded, offering a quality refuge from the general chaos.
CONS: The negatives of AICM
1. Chronic Saturation and Widespread Chaos
🚦 Problem: The airport operates far beyond its capacity. This translates into a stressful experience for the passenger.
User experience: The complaints are unanimous: crowded corridors, lack of seating in waiting areas, long lines for check-in, security, and immigration. The feeling is of "constant chaos" and "hell," with flights frequently delayed due to air traffic congestion.
2. Poor Baggage Handling and Theft
🎒 Problem: This is one of the most serious and concerning points. The theft of belongings from checked suitcases is a recurring and persistent complaint.
User experience: Hundreds of travelers report forced, damaged suitcases and, worst of all, the theft of valuable items. Furthermore, baggage delivery on the carousels is extremely slow, often exceeding an hour's wait.
3. Lack of Maintenance and Outdated Facilities (Especially in T1)
🏚️ Problem: Terminal 1, in particular, shows severe deterioration.
User experience: The descriptions are consistent: dirty and poorly maintained restrooms, leaks when it rains, falling ceilings, out-of-service escalators and elevators, and an unpleasant smell in several areas. The general feeling is one of neglect and lack of investment.
4. Terrible Customer Service Quality
😠 Problem: The treatment by staff (from airlines, security, and other services) is a constant point of friction.
User experience: Staff are frequently described as "rude," "dismissive," "arrogant," and "unhelpful." The lack of kindness and empathy significantly contributes to the traveler's poor overall experience.
5. Poor Signage and Bad Information
🗺️ Problem: Finding your way around the airport, especially in the labyrinthine Terminal 1, is a challenge.
User experience: Flight information screens are often outdated or not working, and PA announcements are unintelligible. Boarding gates change at the last minute without clear notice, causing passengers to run and stress.
General Summary
| Aspect | ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Extremely central and accessible | Heavy traffic to get to and from |
| Operations | Maximum domestic and international connectivity | Extreme saturation, chaos, and constant delays |
| Facilities | Modern Terminal 2, wide variety of shops | Outdated Terminal 1, general lack of maintenance |
| Service | Some quality restaurants and VIP lounges | Very poor treatment from airline and security staff |
| Baggage Security | Strong police presence in public areas | High risk of theft from checked luggage |