Mexico is racing to finish a massive $500 million overhaul of its busiest airport before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off. Benito Juárez International Airport in Mexico City is the focal point of these urgent upgrades.
Over 3,000 workers are putting in shifts lasting up to 20 hours daily to meet the deadline. Airport authorities confirmed this grueling schedule to The Associated Press.
The first phase is already more than 90 percent complete, according to airport director Juan José Padilla. But he acknowledged the project's scope has proven far more challenging than initially expected.
Luis Ibarra, a 28-year-old engineer, was waiting near construction work in Terminal 1 when he spoke about the airport's long-standing problems. Flooding, leaking roofs, and severe overcrowding have plagued the facility for years, he noted.
Padilla explained that much of the infrastructure dates back over 50 years. Some sections are missing original blueprints entirely, which complicated the renovation process unexpectedly.
Work began in May 2025 with full financing from the airport itself. Mexico's Navy has operated the facility since 2023.
The upgrades include brand new terminal facades and completely redesigned restrooms. Nearly 100,000 square metres of flooring and lighting are being replaced.
Baggage claim systems are getting major improvements across the terminals. An additional 30,000 square metres of passenger waiting space will also be recovered.
Security measures are being dramatically enhanced for the World Cup tournament. Surveillance cameras will increase from 2,200 to more than 4,000 units.
Captain Arturo Flores, the project coordinator, said the new cameras use artificial intelligence technology. They can detect suspicious luggage, vehicles, and individuals in real time.
An anti-drone security system will soon be installed as well. This addition will strengthen airport security considerably ahead of the global event.
The second phase of construction starts in August after the World Cup concludes. It'll run through December 2026.
Many passengers accept the disruption as necessary for modernization. They understand why the airport desperately needs these critical improvements.
