Entrepreneurs in the tourism industry recommend resolving immediate issues at AICM and urge advancements in infrastructure prior to the World Cup, emphasizing their importance.
In the lead-up to the World Cup, Mexico City's primary international airport, AICM, is taking decisive steps to bolster its infrastructure and operational resilience. The airport's president, Braulio Arsuaga, has reiterated CNET's readiness to collaborate with authorities and contribute proposals to strengthen the airport's operational continuity.
Improving Resilience and Operational Continuity
A key measure to improve resilience at AICM is the activation and enhancement of Plan Tlaloque. This emergency protocol, focused on flood control, involves deploying pumps, vacuum trucks, and crews continuously monitoring and managing drainage to prevent flooding that could disrupt airport operations. Additionally, reviews and planned investments in infrastructure upgrades, particularly drainage systems, are intended to reduce the risk of runway closures and stranded passengers caused by floods.
Air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure is also undergoing upgrades, prompted by systemic safety issues revealed in 2025. These improvements aim to address staffing shortfalls and outdated technology, with the goal of modernizing ATC systems using technology-driven safety improvements, such as AI and satellite navigation. This would increase operational reliability.
Strengthening regulatory compliance and operational protocols is another crucial aspect of AICM's preparations. Measures to manage crew duty times and flight diversions, which disrupt schedules during weather or infrastructure disruptions, are being implemented to prevent operational incidents.
AICM Incident and Its Impact
Despite these efforts, the AICM has temporarily suspended operations due to intense rains, causing cancellations, delays, and flight diversions. This incident has resulted in significant affectations for thousands of national and international passengers. The situation could generate repercussions throughout the productive chain of the tourism sector, from hotels and restaurants to transporters and tour operators.
In response, CNET has called for authorities to design and implement an integral plan with investments, maintenance, and operation protocols to ensure the continuity of flights at AICM, even in scenarios of heavy rain. Arsuaga emphasised the importance of maintaining airport facilities and tourist infrastructure in optimal conditions to serve tourists efficiently, stating that the suspension of operations and the temporary closure of AICM project a negative image of Mexico abroad.
Looking Ahead
As Mexico City prepares to host the World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, ensuring the airport's operational continuity is of paramount importance. Arsuaga's goal is to protect the traveler's experience and safeguard Mexico's reputation in international markets. He emphasised that it is time to act with vision and planning to ensure the competitiveness of Mexico in tourism matters.
The National Business Tourism Council (CNET) has urged all competent authorities to collaborate in resolving the contingency caused by the intense rains in Mexico City. As the AICM incident highlights, ensuring the continuous and efficient operation of the airport is crucial to avoid a greater impact on the arrival of international visitors. In the first half of 2025, international tourist arrivals by air in Mexico decreased by 2.9% compared to the same period in 2024, reaching 12 million. This underscores the urgency of addressing the ongoing issues at AICM to sustain international air traffic reliability during crucial events.
For updates on flight status at AICM, passengers are advised to check the airport's official website or contact their airlines directly.
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