Mexico racing against time to complete $500m airport before 2026 World Cup

With the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifying, Mexican authorities are working around the clock to complete a massive $500 million renovation project at Benito Juárez International Airport, the country’s busiest aviation hub.

Airport authorities told The Associated Press that more than 3,000 workers are operating shifts of up to 20 hours daily in a race to finish one of the largest renovation projects in the airport’s history before the tournament begins.

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Passengers Endure Construction Chaos

Despite the disruption, many travellers acknowledge the urgent need for the upgrade.

Luis Ibarra, a 28-year-old engineer waiting near ongoing construction work inside Terminal 1, said the airport had struggled for years with flooding, leaking roofs and severe overcrowding.

Airport director Juan José Padilla admitted the scale of the challenges had exceeded expectations one year into the project, even though the first phase is now more than 90 percent complete.

“We are facing years of neglect,” Padilla said, explaining that several unexpected complications emerged because parts of the airport’s infrastructure are more than 50 years old, with original blueprints missing in some sections.

The extensive modernisation project began in May 2025 and is being fully financed by the airport itself, which has been operated by the Mexican Navy since 2023.

Major Infrastructure and Security Upgrades

According to the project coordinator, Captain Arturo Flores, the renovation includes redesigned terminal facades, upgraded restrooms, improved baggage claim systems, replacement of nearly 100,000 square metres of flooring and lighting, and the recovery of 30,000 square metres of waiting space for passengers.

Security infrastructure is also being significantly upgraded ahead of the World Cup.

The airport will increase its surveillance camera network from 2,200 to more than 4,000 cameras, with artificial intelligence systems capable of detecting suspicious luggage, vehicles and individuals.

Authorities also confirmed that an anti-drone security system will soon be installed as part of preparations for the global football event.

Second Phase Planned After Tournament

The second phase of the renovation is scheduled to begin in August after the World Cup and continue through December.