A few days ago, during the morning press conference, Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum mentioned that she had received letters from cargo airlines operating at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), expressing their satisfaction with moving their operations to that terminal.
Meanwhile, AIFA’s director, Isidoro Pastor, stated that 82.5% of U.S. airlines operating at the airport are satisfied with the services and have no intention of returning to Mexico City International Airport (AICM), citing slot restrictions and infrastructure limitations at the capital’s main airport.
Cargo airlines highlight that at AIFA they can operate 24 hours a day, unlike at AICM, where most cargo flights are limited to nighttime hours—something they consider a major advantage. They also praise the modern infrastructure, safety, and facilities at the new airport.
In terms of results, AIFA has positioned itself as the national leader in cargo movement. During the first four months of 2024 alone, it handled 142,979 tons, far more than during the same period in 2023. Air cargo also grew 15% during the first six months of full operations, a predictable result considering that cargo airlines were required to relocate to Felipe Ángeles.
Given these numbers—reported by the authorities themselves—it is worth noting that AIFA could indeed become a success in the cargo aviation sector, provided that continuous investment and adaptation continue. It also remains the country’s main military air base, which adds another layer of complexity to its operations.
However, commercial passenger flights still fall short of expectations. Passenger numbers remain well below projected targets, and the airport continues to receive federal subsidies, meaning it is still financed by taxpayers.
Operational and Logistical Challenges
Beyond the positive data, AIFA’s cargo operations face significant challenges.
Thunderstorms, fog, and adverse weather conditions—common in the Valley of Mexico—often cause delays or temporary suspension of fuel supply, disrupting distribution chains and affecting time-sensitive or perishable cargo.
Other logistical disadvantages persist: AIFA’s distance from Mexico City’s downtown, limited road connectivity, insufficient public transportation, and security concerns all impact personnel, costs, and delivery times.
Moreover, most cargo arriving at AIFA must still be transported to customs facilities near AICM, adding logistical complexity and higher costs. Although reports claim the airport has begun generating operating profits, its financial data are not publicly available, as the facility is under military administration.
International and Industry Concerns
The mandatory relocation of cargo operations to AIFA has also led to tensions with the U.S. government, affecting the bilateral air services agreement. Cargo airlines argue that the forced move has increased their costs, which in turn raises overall prices.
Industry associations and companies such as IATA and Lufthansa Cargo have voiced concerns over operational and infrastructure shortcomings. Lufthansa, for instance, reports that the move to AIFA has increased its logistical expenses, as it now must operate additional warehouses and manage ground transport between AIFA and Mexico City.
Some operators also point out that ramp parking fees, overnight stays, and landing charges can be higher at AIFA than they were at AICM. In addition, key international certifications, such as ACC3-RA3, required by the European Union for air cargo and mail from non-EU countries, are still pending.
Further criticism targets the shortage of customs personnel, inefficient inspection and storage procedures, and limited capacity for handling specialized cargo—such as refrigerated goods, perishables, and live animals. The division of operations between AIFA and AICM also complicates customs and clearance processes, causing inefficiencies in the logistics chain.
Conclusion
In summary, cargo airlines recognize several advantages at AIFA—notably its round-the-clock operations, modern infrastructure, and reduced congestion—but significant challenges remain in ground connectivity, regulatory coordination, and customs efficiency.
As in all aviation matters, long-term success depends on consistency and planning. For now, AIFA is making progress in the cargo sector, but its consolidation as a competitive and self-sustaining airport still requires time, investment, and transparency.
Only time will tell whether the government’s decisions were the right ones—or whether Mexico will have to bear the costs of a politically driven and premature strategy.