Background and Relevance
The Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México (AICM) is the primary airport serving Mexico City, one of the busiest metropolitan areas in the world. With numerous domestic and international airlines operating out of this hub, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting Mexico to the global aviation network. The Secretaría de Marina (Semar) has been overseeing strict operational control at the AICM, which is currently undergoing remodeling.
AFAC Approval for Increased Operations
The Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil (AFAC) has authorized the AICM to raise its commercial operations—including takeoffs and landings—from 43 to 44 per hour. This decision was communicated in a resolution published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF) on the specified date.
The resolution instructs the AICM concessionaire to implement necessary measures ensuring optimal airport operation and adequate public service. These measures must comply with the outlined resolutions for summer 2025, winter 2025, and subsequent seasons.
Potential for Future Increases
The AFAC resolution also leaves room for further increases in operations, should there be saturation issues in the airspace or terminal buildings. In August 2022, operations were reduced from 61 to 52 per hour and then further down to 43 in 2023 due to service quality concerns. These reductions were temporary, aiming to enhance overall passenger experience.
Operational Requirements
The AFAC resolution specifies that AICM operations can only be increased to 44 per hour if certain conditions are met. These include adherence to the master development program, a thorough analysis of airspace and infrastructure readiness, ensuring both air and ground operational capabilities.
Saturated Flight Schedule
Based on the document, Terminal 1 operates from 05:00 to 22:59, while Terminal 2’s schedule is divided into three segments: 06:00-10:59, 13:00-19:59, and 21:00-21:59.
Addressing Growing Demand
With increasing demand for air travel services, domestic airlines operating at AICM had repeatedly requested an increase in hourly operations. The strict control imposed by Semar on airport activities prompted these requests.
Although this is an additional operation per hour, the decision helps alleviate pressure to boost AICM activity. The measure was communicated to airlines on May 7, pending AFAC approval.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main change? The AICM has been authorized to increase its commercial operations from 43 to 44 per hour.
- Who made this decision? The Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil (AFAC) granted this authorization.
- What conditions must be met for further increases? The AICM must adhere to the master development program, ensure airspace and infrastructure readiness, and maintain operational capabilities on both air and ground.
- What are the new operating hours for each terminal? Terminal 1 operates from 05:00 to 22:59, while Terminal 2’s schedule is divided into three segments: 06:00-10:59, 13:00-19:59, and 21:00-21:59.
- Why was this change necessary? The increase addresses growing demand for air travel services and helps alleviate pressure to boost AICM activity under Semar’s strict control.
