Mexico City is served by multiple airports, with Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) being the two main ones serving the metropolitan area. Benito Juárez is the primary international and domestic hub, handling the vast majority of air traffic with over 100 destinations worldwide. It is located about 5 kilometers east of downtown Mexico City and offers two terminals connected by an AirTrain service. Felipe Ángeles is a newer airport designed to help ease traffic from Benito Juárez, focusing on both domestic and some international flights, located about 45 kilometers north of the city center.
Benito Juárez Airport is known for its extensive international connections, numerous shopping and dining options and good public transit access including Metro and Metrobus lines. Felipe Ángeles Airport provides modern facilities with a spacious terminal and serves as an alternative for travelers seeking less congestion and easier navigation, though its distance from the city center means transport options are more limited. Together, these airports provide comprehensive flight options for Mexico City visitors.
| Airport | Main role | Flight Connections | Transport to City | Proximity | Shopping & Food | Other Passenger Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) | Primary international and domestic hub | Flights to over 100 destinations across Mexico, Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia | Metro Line 5 (50 min, less than $1), Metrobus Line 4 (30 min, ~$1.50), authorized taxis (~20 min, ~$16), rideshares | 5 km (3.1 miles) east of downtown Mexico City | Wide range including La Mansión, Maison Kayser, Chili's, Starbucks, duty-free shops, luxury brands, and convenience stores across two terminals | Two main terminals connected by AirTrain, busy with over 48 million passengers annually, extensive services including lounges and medical facilities |
| Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) | Secondary airport easing traffic, with domestic and some international flights | Domestic and limited international flights with modern gate facilities and multi-story terminal | Limited public transport; primarily accessed by car, taxi, or private transfer with longer travel times (approx. 45 km from city center) | 45 km (28 miles) north of downtown Mexico City | Basic amenities with some local cuisine options, newer facilities with space for future growth | Second largest airport by area in Mexico, 34 gates with jet bridges and bus gates, designed for expansion as demand grows |
Choosing between Mexico City's airports depends largely on your travel priorities. Benito Juárez International is the main gateway offering the greatest international connectivity, convenient public transport and extensive airport amenities. Felipe Ángeles provides a modern alternative with less crowding but is farther from the city center and has more limited transport options. Travelers should weigh convenience, flight availability and ground transportation when deciding which airport best suits their Mexico City trip.
If you are looking for detailed info on the different Mexico City airports, click on the airport profiles below.
