As of September 18, the “Miguel de la Madrid Hurtado” Airport, located in Buenavista, in the municipality of Cuauhtémoc, has been officially granted international status, according to a decree published by the Government of Mexico in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF).
With this designation, the airport — managed by the Mexican Navy (SEMAR) — is no longer classified as a domestic terminal and is now authorized to receive international flights. The move is part of the federal strategy led by President Claudia Sheinbaum to strengthen air connectivity across different regions of the country, aiming to boost tourism, foreign trade, and regional development.
Infrastructure Ready for International Operations
According to the decree, the airport meets all technical and operational requirements established by international aviation standards, enabling it to handle aircraft operations, passenger services, cargo, and mail for both private and commercial flights.
In coordination with various agencies — including immigration, customs, health, security, and phytosanitary authorities — work is already underway to implement international protocols and procedures, ensuring a safe and orderly opening to global markets.
Historic Investment in Modernization and Expansion
The international designation comes alongside the launch of a major modernization and expansion project, recently announced by Governor Indira Vizcaíno Silva, involving an investment of 327 million pesos.
The renovation includes upgrades to key areas such as:
- Main lobby
- Check-in counters
- Security screening areas
- Arrival halls
- Departure gates
Once completed, the airport’s passenger handling capacity will increase significantly: the arrivals area will be able to accommodate up to five times more passengers, while the waiting lounge will nearly septuple its current size. In total, the terminal will expand its operational area by 243%. The project also includes the rehabilitation of the runway, taxiways, and aircraft platforms, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency for operations.
Economic and Strategic Boost for Colima
The airport’s new international status represents a strategic opportunity for Colima. Thanks to its location near Mexico’s Pacific coast, it is expected to positively impact both tourism and key industries such as:
- Agro-industry
- Mining
- Logistics
- Freight transport
In the medium term, the upgrade is expected to attract new flight routes and air connections, generating greater economic impact and positioning Colima as an attractive and competitive destination both nationally and internationally.
With this transformation, the Colima International Airport solidifies its role as a key hub for development in western Mexico, addressing the growing demand for air mobility and reinforcing the importance of airport infrastructure as a driver of regional growth.