Jul 2, 2014, 12:19 am
Last edit by: JDiver
Please edit or add information to this wiki as necessary.
GENERAL INFORMATION
"AICM" - Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México
(Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez)
Av. Capitán Carlos León S/N
Col Peñón de los Baños
Delegación Venustiano Carranza, DF
CP 15620, México
Phone: (+52 55) 2482-2424 and 2482-2400
Website: http://www.aicm.com.mx/home_en.php (English language version)
Link to AICM airlines information, including terminals.
Most comprehensive information: Wikipedia (Castilian Spanish)
Mexico City Airport Guide to lounges, sleeping, etc. by SleepinginAirports.net
Venustiano Carranza is one of the 16 boroughs (delegaciones) of the Federal District; it serves Mexico City, and is located 3.1 miles / 5 km east of downtown (getting there takes significantly longer than you would think; traffic can be very congested). The airport is one of the oldest, opening in 1928, and is limited by two runways at high altitude (7,316 ft / 2,230 m above MSL) and can not expand due to encroaching population. Recent attempts to open a new, higher capacity airport were ended by the new President, so this airport, Latin America's second busiest, will do for now.
NOTE: See post 380 (23 May 2018, by BenA) for information on the new automated passport reading kiosks in Terminal 2 and a shorter option to lengthy arrivals queues.
FLIGHT INFORMATION: http://www.aicm.com.mx/informacional.../fids/fids.php
CONNECTIONS: Check to see if you need to connect between terminals, and allow plenty of time for that. See MEX Connection Times international / domestic master thread
Interterminal Transportation - Aerotrén / Air Train: The landside elevated Aerotrén APM (Automated People Mover) claims to move only those connecting passengers with boarding passes between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. It consists of two to four cars, each with 25 passenger (with baggage and hand carry) capacity, per train, which travels at 28 MPH / 45 kph over the 1.9 mi / 3 km range. Time en route is 4:40 (min), dwell time in each terminal is 60 seconds, time between trains is 10:45 (min).
Aerotrén route
Interterminal Transportation - Landside red shuttle busses[/B] operate 05:00 (am) to 01:00 (am), also used during Aerotrén breakdowns, are labeled ""Transportación entre Terminales"; the stops are at entrance No. 6 of Terminal 1 and entrance No. 4 of Terminal 2. They are air conditioned, have luggage spaces and are wheelchair-accessible.
MEX airport map
ARRIVING: If you are arriving from an international flight without a connection (you are terminating at MEX), you must have your forms filled out - see Requirements for visiting Mexico as a tourist ("tourist card", visa etc.).
You may have a lengthy walk down the glassed-in arrivals corridor. This corridor has glass door controlled areas to allow people from the departures area cross through the arrivals corridor (like using an air lock), so you could be detained by a boarding aircraft. In one instance we were detained nearly fifteen minutes enough route from the 30s gate as a TACA flight boarded and our passage was blocked by glass doors.
Proceed to the corridor end and down one floor to the not-so-well marked exits for "Migración" and proceed to the sometimes lengthy queues to present your passport and documents. Your tourist card will be stamped and you will be given a portion back - turn it in on your departure (if you lose it, expect to pay a fine and have to spend some time with formalities). (When you check in at MEX, the form will be stapled to your boarding pass, and removed at the boarding gate - if somehow you do not have it at counter or gate, you'll have to return landslide and fill out forms and pay a MXN 307.00 fine.
Once your passport is stamped and your "Tourist Card" / FMM is validated, proceed to the baggage carousels and look for your flight to be displayed. Carts are available. Retrieve your baggage and proceed to "ADUANA", where you will queue up one more time.Normally, as you approach the customs kiosk, you will walk up to what looks like a small traffic light / robot and press the large button; a Green light means you can proceed, a Red light means further Customs formalities and inspection. You normally then put your bags on a conveyor belt for x-ray screening, As your bags have been x-rayed prior to delivery you no longer have the x-rayed upon exiting the Aduana hall, though bags may be selected for secondary screening; then you are landside in the arrivals floor scrum.
BAGGAGE STORAGE (link)
If you recover your baggage and have a layover, there are left luggage / baggage storage / GUARDAEQUIPAJE* at AICM, ~100 MXN per day.
*Goo-ARR-dah ek-kee-PA-heh
Terminal 1: Internacional area 10 between Gates 7 and 8, Area E-2; 24 hours a day.
Terminal 2: in front of the Domestic Arrivals area, 24 hours a day.
TERMINALS
Terminal 1 is the original terminal, and has expanded a number of times. Terminal 2 was opened in 2007, increasing the airport's capacity 40% from the frequently expanded Terminal 1. SkyTeam, including local member Aeroméxico, excepting Air France and KLM, are located in Terminal 2.
See this WikiTravel page for further information, including airlines and terminals: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico_city_airport
Terminal 1:
Premium Lounges in T1: Hotels: See this excellent page on Arriving in Terminal 1, from www.midwesternerinmexico.com.
Terminal 2: (Domestic subterminal and SkyTeam other than KLM and AF)
Premium Lounges in T2: Hotels:
FOR HOTELS, LOUNGES, SLEEPING:
A fairly comprehensiveresource is www.sleepinginairports.net. Their intro page to MEX is here, and it covers everything from hotels to Lounges and ad hoc sleeping in airports. E.g. Avianca Lounge is 24/7 and day passes are currently available.
Izzzleep sleep capsules in Terminal 1 (140 MXN hourly, minimum two hours, WiFi, bathrooms, showers for 130 MXN fee - bookable via Bookings.com, Expedia, etc.) Landsude, just “past the entrance to the Marriott Courtyard, in/on top of the T1 bus terminal structure.” (Gracias to flugvergnugen)
OFFSITE TRANSPORTATION:
By taxi: The authorized taxi stands at the airport have "Transporte Terrestre" kiosks where you can buy a ticket to your destination, and then proceed outside to the taxi line to catch the taxi. DO NOT pay attention to touts or walk across the street to pick up unaffiliated or pirate taxis - kidnapping and assault are not unknown if you choose to do this.
Uber: see https://www.uber.com/cities/mexico-city; see post #146.
You may wish to read over this informative page about using taxis (and the various kinds of taxis available), with particular emphasis on Mexico City taxis.
By Metro: If you have no luggage, you can use the Metro (Line 5 / Yellow Line, station Terminal Aérea) (serves Terminal 1 only - use interterminal shuttle bus to Terminal 2)and connect to your destination (most will connect to other lines at Pantitlán south, or Oceania north of Terminal Aérea). Tickets (and passes) can be purchased from kiosks, and cost $3.00 pesos per trip (~€ 0.15, or ~US$ 0.24). Hours are 05:00 a 24:00 weekdays, starting 06:00 Saturdays, and 07:00 Sundays and holidays. Website (Castilian Spanish).
Local Bus: The best local bus is the articulated BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) Metrobús Line 4 - the electrically-powered red bus runs in priority roadway lanes from 04:30 (am) to midnight), departures every 20 minutes, takes 30 minutes to downtown historic center / centro histórico, costs $30.00 pesos (about US$2.40 / €1.80) single / one way, has luggage space. Catch it on the ground floor of Terminal 1 opposite Gates 6 - 7, and Terminal 2 near the taxi rank on the ground floor / arrivals. Get your tickets from automated kiosks with peso coins or credit card; sweep your card past the validator as you board. See this page (English version) for details.
By Intercity Bus: There are stations in each terminal with reliable, economical and safe buses to various national destinations. See this page for the bus schedule, and for more on Mexican busses here: Bus travel in Mexico, the definitive thread.
"AICM Terminal 1 land terminal (Terminal terrestre de autobuses - open 24 / 7) is located in front of the international area vehicular ramp and its facilities include various services for the comfort of our passengers. Among others, it offers VIP lounges, internet, resting, reading and meeting halls. The terminal also offers a fast food area, shops, souvenirs and currency exchange offices.
The AICM Terminal 2 land terminal is located at gate D, between entrance 4 and the national arrival passenger exit, and its facilities include resting halls and a fast food area."
INTERCITY BUSSES:
- Autobuses del Oriente (ADO)
Tel: 5133-2424 and 01800-702-8000
Operations: 6:00 to 21:00 hrs. 7 days
Destination: Córdoba, state of Veracrúz
- Autobuses Estrella Blanca
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operations: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destinations: Pachuca, state of Hidalgo
- Autobuses Estrella Roja
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operations: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destination: Puebla, Puebla
- Autobuses La Piedad
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operating Hours: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destinations: Querétaro, Qro.
- Autobuses Pullman de Morelos
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operating Hours: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destination: Cuernavaca, Mor.
- Autobuses TMT Caminante
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operating Hours: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destination: Toluca, Mexico
GENERAL INFORMATION
"AICM" - Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México
(Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez)
Av. Capitán Carlos León S/N
Col Peñón de los Baños
Delegación Venustiano Carranza, DF
CP 15620, México
Phone: (+52 55) 2482-2424 and 2482-2400
Website: http://www.aicm.com.mx/home_en.php (English language version)
Link to AICM airlines information, including terminals.
Most comprehensive information: Wikipedia (Castilian Spanish)
Mexico City Airport Guide to lounges, sleeping, etc. by SleepinginAirports.net
Venustiano Carranza is one of the 16 boroughs (delegaciones) of the Federal District; it serves Mexico City, and is located 3.1 miles / 5 km east of downtown (getting there takes significantly longer than you would think; traffic can be very congested). The airport is one of the oldest, opening in 1928, and is limited by two runways at high altitude (7,316 ft / 2,230 m above MSL) and can not expand due to encroaching population. Recent attempts to open a new, higher capacity airport were ended by the new President, so this airport, Latin America's second busiest, will do for now.
NOTE: See post 380 (23 May 2018, by BenA) for information on the new automated passport reading kiosks in Terminal 2 and a shorter option to lengthy arrivals queues.
FLIGHT INFORMATION: http://www.aicm.com.mx/informacional.../fids/fids.php
CONNECTIONS: Check to see if you need to connect between terminals, and allow plenty of time for that. See MEX Connection Times international / domestic master thread
From an international flight to an international/domestic flight – Clear immigration, customs and security with any (retrieved at carousels) check-in baggage, then place your baggage on the flight connections carousel located on the right hand side, before proceeding to your departure gate.
If you are traveling on separate ticketing, you will have to go to the terminal airline ticket counter, check in and check your bags.
If you are connecting to the same airline to a domestic destination, you will recover your baggage once you arrive there. Look for the transit queue and processing.
From a domestic flight to an international flight – Proceed directly to the appropriate terminal and departure gate ([B.
If you are traveling on separate ticketing, you will have to go to the terminal airline ticket counter, check in and check your bags.
If you are connecting to the same airline to a domestic destination, you will recover your baggage once you arrive there. Look for the transit queue and processing.
From a domestic flight to an international flight – Proceed directly to the appropriate terminal and departure gate ([B.
Aerotrén route
Interterminal Transportation - Landside red shuttle busses[/B] operate 05:00 (am) to 01:00 (am), also used during Aerotrén breakdowns, are labeled ""Transportación entre Terminales"; the stops are at entrance No. 6 of Terminal 1 and entrance No. 4 of Terminal 2. They are air conditioned, have luggage spaces and are wheelchair-accessible.
MEX airport map
ARRIVING: If you are arriving from an international flight without a connection (you are terminating at MEX), you must have your forms filled out - see Requirements for visiting Mexico as a tourist ("tourist card", visa etc.).
You may have a lengthy walk down the glassed-in arrivals corridor. This corridor has glass door controlled areas to allow people from the departures area cross through the arrivals corridor (like using an air lock), so you could be detained by a boarding aircraft. In one instance we were detained nearly fifteen minutes enough route from the 30s gate as a TACA flight boarded and our passage was blocked by glass doors.
Proceed to the corridor end and down one floor to the not-so-well marked exits for "Migración" and proceed to the sometimes lengthy queues to present your passport and documents. Your tourist card will be stamped and you will be given a portion back - turn it in on your departure (if you lose it, expect to pay a fine and have to spend some time with formalities). (When you check in at MEX, the form will be stapled to your boarding pass, and removed at the boarding gate - if somehow you do not have it at counter or gate, you'll have to return landslide and fill out forms and pay a MXN 307.00 fine.
Once your passport is stamped and your "Tourist Card" / FMM is validated, proceed to the baggage carousels and look for your flight to be displayed. Carts are available. Retrieve your baggage and proceed to "ADUANA", where you will queue up one more time.
BAGGAGE STORAGE (link)
If you recover your baggage and have a layover, there are left luggage / baggage storage / GUARDAEQUIPAJE* at AICM, ~100 MXN per day.
*Goo-ARR-dah ek-kee-PA-heh
Terminal 1: Internacional area 10 between Gates 7 and 8, Area E-2; 24 hours a day.
Terminal 2: in front of the Domestic Arrivals area, 24 hours a day.
TERMINALS
Terminal 1 is the original terminal, and has expanded a number of times. Terminal 2 was opened in 2007, increasing the airport's capacity 40% from the frequently expanded Terminal 1. SkyTeam, including local member Aeroméxico, excepting Air France and KLM, are located in Terminal 2.
See this WikiTravel page for further information, including airlines and terminals: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico_city_airport
Terminal 1:
Premium Lounges in T1:
- Salón Premier Internacional T1 (Aeroméxico - SkyTeam; Diners Club)
- United Club (United Airlines, Priority Pass)
- Admirals Club (American Airlines, U.S. Airways, oneworld - near Gate 23
- American Express Platinum Centurión Lounge (near Gate 30 - much closer to AA, U.S. etc. departures than some of the airline lounges).
- izZzleep microhotel, $170 MXN (under USD $9.00) for two hours, MXN $160 for a shower, etc. See IZZZLEEP
- Camino Real Aeropuerto de México (connected to terminal 1-B by walkway - 600 rooms, budget) <link>
- Courtyard Mexico City Airport by Marriott (connected by walkway and free shuttle to Terminal 2 - 288 rooms) <link>
- Fiesta Inn Aeropuerto Ciudad de México by Fiesta Americana (Located across from Terminal 1 and offers free shuttles - 327 rooms, budget) <link>
- Hilton México City Airport (Level 3, near gate F1 in the International arrivals area - 110 rooms) <link>
Terminal 2: (Domestic subterminal and SkyTeam other than KLM and AF)
Premium Lounges in T2:
- Club Diamante (Aeromar)
- HSBC Premier Lounge (landslide)
- Salón Premier Nacional (Domestic side - Aeroméxico - SkyTeam; Priority Pass; Diners Club; Airport Angel)
- Salón Premier Internacional T2 (Aeroméxico - SkyTeam; Priority Pass; Diners Club, Airport Angel)
- Riedel Wine Room (Aeroméxico)
- Travel Pass Elite Lounge (Banamex/Citibank)
- Centurión American Express Lounge (American Express)
FOR HOTELS, LOUNGES, SLEEPING:
A fairly comprehensiveresource is www.sleepinginairports.net. Their intro page to MEX is here, and it covers everything from hotels to Lounges and ad hoc sleeping in airports. E.g. Avianca Lounge is 24/7 and day passes are currently available.
Izzzleep sleep capsules in Terminal 1 (140 MXN hourly, minimum two hours, WiFi, bathrooms, showers for 130 MXN fee - bookable via Bookings.com, Expedia, etc.) Landsude, just “past the entrance to the Marriott Courtyard, in/on top of the T1 bus terminal structure.” (Gracias to flugvergnugen)
OFFSITE TRANSPORTATION:
By taxi: The authorized taxi stands at the airport have "Transporte Terrestre" kiosks where you can buy a ticket to your destination, and then proceed outside to the taxi line to catch the taxi. DO NOT pay attention to touts or walk across the street to pick up unaffiliated or pirate taxis - kidnapping and assault are not unknown if you choose to do this.
Uber: see https://www.uber.com/cities/mexico-city; see post #146.
You may wish to read over this informative page about using taxis (and the various kinds of taxis available), with particular emphasis on Mexico City taxis.
Walking out of the airport - Taxi Sitio (Rank) (from WikiTravel - http://wikitravel.org/en/Mexico_City)
Be aware the airport is not located in the best area of the city, so it is not recommended for tourists to walk outside the airport terminal in search for cheaper taxi service unless you have pre-arranged your service. Definitely do not attempt this if you are not comfortable speaking Spanish. Despite this, an alternative Taxi Sitio (site) can be reached by using the overpass located outside of Gate D. Taxis here are about half the price of the official airport taxis and are considered secure. This is the Sitio (taxi rank) that is set up for the airline employees.
Be aware the airport is not located in the best area of the city, so it is not recommended for tourists to walk outside the airport terminal in search for cheaper taxi service unless you have pre-arranged your service. Definitely do not attempt this if you are not comfortable speaking Spanish. Despite this, an alternative Taxi Sitio (site) can be reached by using the overpass located outside of Gate D. Taxis here are about half the price of the official airport taxis and are considered secure. This is the Sitio (taxi rank) that is set up for the airline employees.
Local Bus: The best local bus is the articulated BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) Metrobús Line 4 - the electrically-powered red bus runs in priority roadway lanes from 04:30 (am) to midnight), departures every 20 minutes, takes 30 minutes to downtown historic center / centro histórico, costs $30.00 pesos (about US$2.40 / €1.80) single / one way, has luggage space. Catch it on the ground floor of Terminal 1 opposite Gates 6 - 7, and Terminal 2 near the taxi rank on the ground floor / arrivals. Get your tickets from automated kiosks with peso coins or credit card; sweep your card past the validator as you board. See this page (English version) for details.
By Intercity Bus: There are stations in each terminal with reliable, economical and safe buses to various national destinations. See this page for the bus schedule, and for more on Mexican busses here: Bus travel in Mexico, the definitive thread.
"AICM Terminal 1 land terminal (Terminal terrestre de autobuses - open 24 / 7) is located in front of the international area vehicular ramp and its facilities include various services for the comfort of our passengers. Among others, it offers VIP lounges, internet, resting, reading and meeting halls. The terminal also offers a fast food area, shops, souvenirs and currency exchange offices.
The AICM Terminal 2 land terminal is located at gate D, between entrance 4 and the national arrival passenger exit, and its facilities include resting halls and a fast food area."
INTERCITY BUSSES:
- Autobuses del Oriente (ADO)
Tel: 5133-2424 and 01800-702-8000
Operations: 6:00 to 21:00 hrs. 7 days
Destination: Córdoba, state of Veracrúz
- Autobuses Estrella Blanca
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operations: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destinations: Pachuca, state of Hidalgo
- Autobuses Estrella Roja
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operations: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destination: Puebla, Puebla
- Autobuses La Piedad
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operating Hours: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destinations: Querétaro, Qro.
- Autobuses Pullman de Morelos
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operating Hours: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destination: Cuernavaca, Mor.
- Autobuses TMT Caminante
Tels: 5786-9341, 5786-9358, 5786-9338 & 5786-9342
Operating Hours: 24 hrs. / 7 days
Destination: Toluca, Mexico
MEX - Mexico City International Airport / 🛫AICM🛬 master thread
Jan 8, 2016, 10:30 pm
#181
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 1999
Location: Over the Bay Bridge, CA
Programs: Jumbo mas
Posts: 38,636
Having been in 2 Uber X today, #1 would have never gotten our luggage to the airport. #2 probably would have (with the front seat being used). We each have a 26"+ checked bag plus a smaller carry on. Since Uber XL would be the only safe bet, I'll probably just get a hotel car for $330.
Jan 17, 2016, 7:58 pm
#182
Join Date: Jan 2012
Programs: AY+ Plat, Marriott Plat, Hyatt Discoverist
Posts: 2,846
International Connection at MEX: LAN to AA
I am booking an award ticket with a potential connection in MEX from LA to AA. I had a few questions I was hoping those with more experience with MEX than I can answer.
1) When is LA moving to T1?
2) If the LA to AA connection is all in T1, will immigration and customs have to be cleared? If I remember correctly, arriving and departing passengers are segregated, so my guess would be yes, but wanted to double check.
3) Is a three hour connection enough time? The inbound on LAN would arrive at 15:05, and the departure on AA would leave at 18:09. I believe this is the last AA departure for the day, so definitely don't want to misconnect.
Thanks in advance for all the help.
1) When is LA moving to T1?
2) If the LA to AA connection is all in T1, will immigration and customs have to be cleared? If I remember correctly, arriving and departing passengers are segregated, so my guess would be yes, but wanted to double check.
3) Is a three hour connection enough time? The inbound on LAN would arrive at 15:05, and the departure on AA would leave at 18:09. I believe this is the last AA departure for the day, so definitely don't want to misconnect.
Thanks in advance for all the help.
Jan 18, 2016, 10:00 am
#183
Join Date: Jul 2008
Posts: 476
Are there ATM's located between International Arrivals and the authorized taxi stands in Terminal 1? Does one tip taxi drivers after paying for the ride in advance? If so, any advice on getting small amounts of money from an ATM? Thanks.
Jan 18, 2016, 11:54 am
#184
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: SMF
Posts: 1,251
There's typically no need to tip taxi drivers in Mexico City unless they go above and beyond i.e. by helping with extra bags or putting up with your attempts to converse in Spanglish.
Jan 19, 2016, 5:49 am
#185
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: SLC/MEX
Posts: 149
1) When is LA moving to T1?
2) If the LA to AA connection is all in T1, will immigration and customs have to be cleared? If I remember correctly, arriving and departing passengers are segregated, so my guess would be yes, but wanted to double check.
3) Is a three hour connection enough time? The inbound on LAN would arrive at 15:05, and the departure on AA would leave at 18:09. I believe this is the last AA departure for the day, so definitely don't want to misconnect.
Thanks in advance for all the help.
2) If the LA to AA connection is all in T1, will immigration and customs have to be cleared? If I remember correctly, arriving and departing passengers are segregated, so my guess would be yes, but wanted to double check.
3) Is a three hour connection enough time? The inbound on LAN would arrive at 15:05, and the departure on AA would leave at 18:09. I believe this is the last AA departure for the day, so definitely don't want to misconnect.
Thanks in advance for all the help.
http://www.aicm.com.mx/vuelos?busca=...=&air=&da=&in=
If you do need to get between terminals, the AeroTren runs every ten minutes. Don't lose any of your tickets and boarding passes, the AeroTren staff are very prickly about letting you aboard without documents.
2) MEX abandoned sterile transit about a decade ago. It's a real shame as they did a nice terminal upgrade in the late 1990s and it was convenient for connections. Now international flights generally require walking 1.5km through an isolated hallway directly to immigration and customs. To change flights, you'll have to walk back down the same hallway. The incoming and outgoing parts of the hallway are separated by zigzagging glass panels so the out and return trip give you plenty of depressing time to reminisce about sterile transit.
The national government is planning a new airport on stilts in about five years over the old lake Texcoco bed. The old lakebed is the only large place left to build in the valley since it regularly floods. It will be built like DEN with the entire structure like a tent hanging on deep caisson poles. That includes the runways. It looks pretty fancy. Mexico is the world's leading nation in precast concrete parts tech so I think they want to show it off.
I just hope they have sterile transit. Or at least a convenient way into immigration.
Note that Terminal 2 does have a rational immigration rat maze -- though not sterile transit -- but on the land side it has no good subway or transit connection, unlike Terminal 1.
The above is mostly a lot of complaining you didn't need to see about my local airport.
3) Hahahaha. Mexico is a first world country, not some backwater. Things are run reasonably well. You'll be through customs in under 20 minutes usually, 80 minutes max at the very worst backups I've ever seen. And you can be back into the terminal in 20 minutes even if you walk slow.
Three hours. Ha. This isn't LAX or Atlanta or Detroit. Twenty-two million people need to be able to depend on this airport.
Last edited by WildUtah; Jan 19, 2016 at 6:40 am
Jan 19, 2016, 6:48 am
#186
Moderator: American AAdvantage, Signatures
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: London, England
Programs: UA 1K, Hilton Diamond, IHG Diamond Ambassador, National Exec, AA EXP Emeritus
Posts: 9,765
As this thread is more related to MEX than AA, I'm going to shift this thread over to the Mexico forum.
~Microwave
AAdvantage forum co-moderator
~Microwave
AAdvantage forum co-moderator
Jan 19, 2016, 6:40 pm
#187
Join Date: Jan 2012
Programs: AY+ Plat, Marriott Plat, Hyatt Discoverist
Posts: 2,846
1) No idea. Terminal 2 is generally only SkyTeam airlines and the website already shows LA offices in Terminal 1. The arrivals and departures for today all show Terminal 1 gates. But the airport map has LA in Terminal 2. Maybe the change has already happened.
http://www.aicm.com.mx/vuelos?busca=...=&air=&da=&in=
If you do need to get between terminals, the AeroTren runs every ten minutes. Don't lose any of your tickets and boarding passes, the AeroTren staff are very prickly about letting you aboard without documents.
2) MEX abandoned sterile transit about a decade ago. It's a real shame as they did a nice terminal upgrade in the late 1990s and it was convenient for connections. Now international flights generally require walking 1.5km through an isolated hallway directly to immigration and customs. To change flights, you'll have to walk back down the same hallway. The incoming and outgoing parts of the hallway are separated by zigzagging glass panels so the out and return trip give you plenty of depressing time to reminisce about sterile transit.
The national government is planning a new airport on stilts in about five years over the old lake Texcoco bed. The old lakebed is the only large place left to build in the valley since it regularly floods. It will be built like DEN with the entire structure like a tent hanging on deep caisson poles. That includes the runways. It looks pretty fancy. Mexico is the world's leading nation in precast concrete parts tech so I think they want to show it off.
I just hope they have sterile transit. Or at least a convenient way into immigration.
Note that Terminal 2 does have a rational immigration rat maze -- though not sterile transit -- but on the land side it has no good subway or transit connection, unlike Terminal 1.
The above is mostly a lot of complaining you didn't need to see about my local airport.
3) Hahahaha. Mexico is a first world country, not some backwater. Things are run reasonably well. You'll be through customs in under 20 minutes usually, 80 minutes max at the very worst backups I've ever seen. And you can be back into the terminal in 20 minutes even if you walk slow.
Three hours. Ha. This isn't LAX or Atlanta or Detroit. Twenty-two million people need to be able to depend on this airport.
http://www.aicm.com.mx/vuelos?busca=...=&air=&da=&in=
If you do need to get between terminals, the AeroTren runs every ten minutes. Don't lose any of your tickets and boarding passes, the AeroTren staff are very prickly about letting you aboard without documents.
2) MEX abandoned sterile transit about a decade ago. It's a real shame as they did a nice terminal upgrade in the late 1990s and it was convenient for connections. Now international flights generally require walking 1.5km through an isolated hallway directly to immigration and customs. To change flights, you'll have to walk back down the same hallway. The incoming and outgoing parts of the hallway are separated by zigzagging glass panels so the out and return trip give you plenty of depressing time to reminisce about sterile transit.
The national government is planning a new airport on stilts in about five years over the old lake Texcoco bed. The old lakebed is the only large place left to build in the valley since it regularly floods. It will be built like DEN with the entire structure like a tent hanging on deep caisson poles. That includes the runways. It looks pretty fancy. Mexico is the world's leading nation in precast concrete parts tech so I think they want to show it off.
I just hope they have sterile transit. Or at least a convenient way into immigration.
Note that Terminal 2 does have a rational immigration rat maze -- though not sterile transit -- but on the land side it has no good subway or transit connection, unlike Terminal 1.
The above is mostly a lot of complaining you didn't need to see about my local airport.
3) Hahahaha. Mexico is a first world country, not some backwater. Things are run reasonably well. You'll be through customs in under 20 minutes usually, 80 minutes max at the very worst backups I've ever seen. And you can be back into the terminal in 20 minutes even if you walk slow.
Three hours. Ha. This isn't LAX or Atlanta or Detroit. Twenty-two million people need to be able to depend on this airport.
Normally, I wouldn't be as worried, but these tickets are for my parents, not for me
Jan 20, 2016, 9:02 pm
#188
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: United 1K, American
Posts: 125
MEX to City transportation options
I will be arriving midday next Tue and will need ride to Hotel in Centro historico. Looking at previous posts seems like the official taxi is the best option. How much and how long does it take? For return, should I use Uber? My departure flight on UA is at 8.30am, how much time should I allow for the ride to MEX and to check in? I have 1K status with UA so I can go to the premier check in (if there's one) Thanks
Jan 21, 2016, 3:10 am
#189
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: SLC/MEX
Posts: 149
I will be arriving midday next Tue and will need ride to Hotel in Centro historico. Looking at previous posts seems like the official taxi is the best option. How much and how long does it take? For return, should I use Uber? My departure flight on UA is at 8.30am, how much time should I allow for the ride to MEX and to check in? I have 1K status with UA so I can go to the premier check in (if there's one) Thanks
Metrobus line 4 might be faster if you're coming in from Terminal 2 (SkyTeam) and headed to the northern parts of the Centro Histórico. UA is Terminal 1. I recommend the Metrobus inbound from T2 and outbound to T1 only.
You can ride the Metro if you have only one carryon bag. It's very reliable but requires two transfers to the Centro, so you should have experience riding a subway before you try riding it with luggage.
You must arrive by 7:30 for an 8:30 international flight. Traffic starts up about then so leave the hotel -- whether in taxi, Uber, or Metrobus -- no later than 6:30am.
You can use Uber, but most Centro hotels have taxi stands nearby that will get you going faster for about the same price. The front desk will be able to tell you. I just walk out onto the street in front of my favorite hotel before dawn carrying a bag and wave; someone always runs right over to me and offers his cab right around the corner. There are six hotels on the block so someone is always needing to leave at 3am.
Jan 21, 2016, 3:18 am
#190
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: SLC/MEX
Posts: 149
The currency exchanges mid-T1 are your best bet in the country for changing foreign currency.
Jan 21, 2016, 7:52 am
#191
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 1999
Location: Over the Bay Bridge, CA
Programs: Jumbo mas
Posts: 38,636
Do yourself a favor - take the official taxi from the airport, and take a hotel arranged taxi for the return. You clearly aren't familiar with MEX. With the current exchange rate, the MEX----> Centro official taxi will be under US$20. Buy your fare at a booth inside. For the return, the hotel taxi will be a similar price (mine was just a bit less than the inbound fare).
I haven't flown out for a early AM flight in years, but I recall it taking about 15 minutes from the Zona Rosa. I'd expect your trip to the hotel will be about 45 minutes at your arrival hour. It could take less time. It could take more time.
I haven't flown out for a early AM flight in years, but I recall it taking about 15 minutes from the Zona Rosa. I'd expect your trip to the hotel will be about 45 minutes at your arrival hour. It could take less time. It could take more time.
Jan 21, 2016, 11:28 am
#192
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: SLC/MEX
Posts: 149
Also, there's a surprising paucity of breakfast options open before 6am in the Centro. If you want something nice and classically local, there's Cafe El Popular on Cinco de Mayo near Palma open 24 hours every day since 1948. You can catch a taxi to the airport from in front if there very easily, just ask the staff.
If you like low quality petroleum-byproduct-tasting chain food, there's a Vips and a Sanborns on charming Madero street open 24 hours. The Sanborns is the most famously beautiful in the chain, set in the famous eighteenth century Casa de Azulejos which is a worthy tourist site of its own.
If that isn't expensive and greasily synthetic enough for you, there's a food court near the international check in salas (How do you say that in English? Atria? Halls?) at the airport. Walk on the second level (where check in is) up a wide ramp 200 meters away from the check in. It's exactly the opposite direction from where you'll pass through security. There are a number of execrable mall style stands there. It's surrounded by the in-terminal Hilton so sleepers can watch you eat from their bedroom windows.
If you like low quality petroleum-byproduct-tasting chain food, there's a Vips and a Sanborns on charming Madero street open 24 hours. The Sanborns is the most famously beautiful in the chain, set in the famous eighteenth century Casa de Azulejos which is a worthy tourist site of its own.
If that isn't expensive and greasily synthetic enough for you, there's a food court near the international check in salas (How do you say that in English? Atria? Halls?) at the airport. Walk on the second level (where check in is) up a wide ramp 200 meters away from the check in. It's exactly the opposite direction from where you'll pass through security. There are a number of execrable mall style stands there. It's surrounded by the in-terminal Hilton so sleepers can watch you eat from their bedroom windows.
Jan 29, 2016, 3:08 am
#193
Used to be 'etrevino'
Join Date: Feb 2014
Location: MTY
Programs: AA, BA, AM Plat, HH Silver, SPG Gold, Amex Plat
Posts: 134
According to this http://eleconomista.com.mx/industria...les-terminal-1 the change was scheduled to take effect on 14 December 2015
Mar 10, 2016, 8:30 am
#195
Join Date: Jul 2015
Programs: Aeroplan, FlyingBlue
Posts: 1
Connection time for SJD
Hi everyone,
Will 1h20 minutes be enough time to catch a connecting flight at MEX? Inbound flight is from YUL, outbound to SJD, both on AeroMexico.
Here are the details:
09:01 – 13:57
Montréal (YUL) – Mexico (MEX)
Aeromexico 681
15:20 – 16:35
Mexico (MEX) – San José del Cabo (SJD)
Aeromexico 274
On the way back, we have a 8h30 min layover... is that enough time to head into Mexico City?
Cheers!
Will 1h20 minutes be enough time to catch a connecting flight at MEX? Inbound flight is from YUL, outbound to SJD, both on AeroMexico.
Here are the details:
09:01 – 13:57
Montréal (YUL) – Mexico (MEX)
Aeromexico 681
15:20 – 16:35
Mexico (MEX) – San José del Cabo (SJD)
Aeromexico 274
On the way back, we have a 8h30 min layover... is that enough time to head into Mexico City?
Cheers!