Safety Tips for Mexico's Major Airports

In times of low-cost airlines, with constant promotions and discounts, traveling by plane is no longer a luxury: in 2023, Mexico transported more than 118 million people on domestic and international flights , which means the historical record of air travel.

With so many people using air transport, travelling through Mexico's main airports requires taking some basic safety recommendations. In this article, we provide you with practical tips to ensure a smooth and legally trouble-free trip, focusing on the country's most important airports.

Mexico City International Airport (AICM)

AICM is the busiest airport in Mexico and one of the most important in Latin America. To ensure your safety:

- Arrive Early: For domestic flights, arrive at least two hours early; for international flights, at least three hours early.
- Documents on Hand: Keep your passport, official ID and boarding pass on hand for security checks.
- Secure Luggage: Avoid carrying prohibited items and make sure your carry-on luggage complies with airline regulations. Do not accept packages from strangers.
- Safe Transportation: Use official taxis and registered transportation services.

-Be careful when changing money: If you are arriving from a trip and are going to change considerable amounts of cash, avoid doing so at the airport if possible. There are several criminal gangs dedicated to robbing passengers who change large sums of money at banks.

Cancun International Airport (CUN)
Cancun is a key tourist destination, meaning that the airport handles a large volume of international passengers. Even many passengers who do not have Cancun as their final destination use it as a bridge to and from Europe, as some airlines offer more convenient prices from Cancun than, for example, Mexico City.

If you are traveling via Cancun, keep in mind the following tips:

- Avoid Scams: Use only authorized taxis and transportation services. Many illegal drivers circulate in the arrivals area.
- Take care of your belongings: Keep your valuables in your carry-on luggage and never lose sight of them.
-Buses to the city: If you want to travel safely and avoid the high cost of licensed taxis, the ADO company offers buses to downtown Cancun, as well as to Tulum, Playa del Carmen and other destinations in the Riviera Maya.

Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)
Founded in 1966, Guadalajara International Airport is the third largest airport in terms of passenger movement in Mexico: in 2023 alone, it was used by more than 17 million passengers.

Guadalajara Airport is usually quiet and efficient, but to avoid any mishaps, we recommend following these safety tips:

-Security Control: Cooperate with security personnel and follow their instructions.
- Health and Safety: Wear masks and follow current health guidelines.
- Check Your Belongings: Make sure you have all your luggage before leaving the baggage claim area.

Monterrey International Airport (MTY)
Monterrey, the most important city in the north of the country, is an important industrial and commercial center that has more than 300 daily flights to more than 43 destinations in Mexico, the United States, Central America and the Caribbean.

For a safe experience, we recommend:

- Use public transport or verified taxis: Use verified transport services and avoid accepting transport offers from strangers, no matter how cheap they are!
- Carry cash: Carry only the cash necessary and use credit or debit cards whenever possible.
- Pay attention in the Baggage Claim area: Pay attention to your belongings and report any irregularities immediately.

General Safety Tips at Airports
1. Review Security Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the airport and airline security regulations before your trip.
2. Keep Your Documents in Order: Make sure you have all your documentation up to date, including visas if necessary.
3. Add Identification to Your Luggage: Mark your luggage with tags that include your contact information.
4. Avoid Crowds: Maintain social distancing whenever possible and follow the instructions of airport staff.
5. Prepare your Electronics: Have your electronic devices charged and ready for inspection. Remember that many camera batteries and other electronic devices are not accepted on board, so pack them in your checked baggage to avoid any mishaps.
6. Digital Security: Do not use public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions such as bank transfers, purchases where you must add your card details, etc.

Traveling safely and peacefully at Mexico's main airports is possible if you follow these tips and stay informed about current regulations and rules.

Have a good trip!