Abraham Gonzalez International Airport

Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS) is not merely a transport hub, but the main aerial gateway to the vibrant border city of Ciudad Juárez and the entire northern region of Mexico. Located in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, it serves as a starting point for thousands of business travellers and tourists. This modern and functional airport welcomes and sees off guests daily, connecting the north of the country with its key metropolises and offering convenient routes for exploring the region.

Despite its relatively modest size, Abraham Gonzalez Airport effectively handles significant passenger traffic. Its main advantage is its compactness and clear navigation, allowing passengers to complete all pre-flight formalities quickly and without unnecessary hassle. The terminal is equipped with all necessary services for a comfortable journey: there are several cafes where you can have a snack, shops, car rental desks, and ATMs. A key feature of the airport is its strategic location. It serves not only domestic flights to cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Cancún but is also an important hub for travellers heading to the USA, thanks to its proximity to the border and the city of El Paso in Texas.

Below you will find contact information for Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

• Official Website: You can find all current information about flights, services, and regulations on the official airport page managed by the operator OMA: oma.aero/es/aeropuertos/ciudad-juarez/
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call the main airport number: +52 (656) 478-7000.
• Airport Address: Carretera Panamericana Km 18.5, C.P. 32690, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general enquiries. It is recommended to use the phone or the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the management company OMA (Grupo Aeroportuario Centro Norte) on their pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, please contact the Lost and Found service (Objetos Olvidados). If your luggage was lost during a flight, you should immediately contact your airline's representative office.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the information desk at the phone number listed above.

You can reach Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS) from the city centre of Ciudad Juárez in several ways, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The trip from the city centre usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, though more time may be required during peak hours.

Taxis and Ride-hailing Services are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. Apps like Uber and DiDi operate in the city, offering rides at reasonable prices. You can also use official taxi services. This is the safest and fastest option, especially if you have a lot of luggage. It is recommended to use authorised services to avoid overcharging.

Public Transport in Mexico consists mainly of buses, known locally as `rutas` or `camiones`. This is the most economical option, but the least comfortable for tourists. There are no direct express routes to the terminal, but some city buses pass near the airport, from where you will need to walk some distance. This method is suitable for travellers with light luggage wishing to save money.

If you are travelling by rental car, getting to the airport is straightforward—the roads have clear signage. The airport provides parking where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. This is an excellent option for those who value independence in movement and plan to return the car immediately before departure.

Besides the airport in Ciudad Juárez itself, it is worth considering alternative options. The most important of these is El Paso International Airport (ELP), located in US territory just 19.5 km away. Due to its close proximity and large selection of flights, it serves as a popular gateway for cross-border trips. Please note that to use it, you must cross the border, so ensure in advance that you have all required documents, including a visa.

Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS) in Ciudad Juárez is characterised by a simple and clear structure, making navigation very convenient for travellers. The airport consists of one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights.

The terminal layout is intuitive and follows a standard two-level configuration. The Upper Level is designated for departing passengers (Salidas), while the Lower Level is for arriving passengers (Llegadas). Since there is only one terminal, transfers between zones are not required, and all infrastructure is located in a single building, eliminating the need for shuttles or long walks between different sections.

In the Departure Zone on the upper floor, you will find airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks. After check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, followed by the waiting lounge. There are several boarding gates, small shops, cafes, and Duty Free here. The space is quite compact, so finding your gate will be effortless.

The Arrival Zone on the lower floor includes baggage claim carousels and, for international flights, a customs control area. Immediately after exiting into the general arrival hall, you will find car rental counters, official taxi services, and greeters. Everything is located very close by, allowing you to orient yourself quickly after retrieving your suitcases.

Processing times at CJS airport are generally shorter than in major metropolises. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights, 2.5–3 hours. This time is usually sufficient for a calm check-in and security screening even during peak hours. Overall, navigating the airport poses no difficulties: simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English, and pay attention to the check-in counter and boarding gate numbers indicated on your boarding pass.

Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS) is not just a transport hub, but an important part of the economic and social history of Ciudad Juárez and the entire northern region of Mexico. Its history is closely intertwined with the rapid growth of the city in the second half of the 20th century. The airport was officially opened in 1957, replacing an old airfield and providing a powerful impetus for the development of air connectivity in the region.

The airport was named in honour of Abraham González de Hermosillo, who was a prominent political figure, governor of the state of Chihuahua, and a key figure during the Mexican Revolution. This choice underscores the historical significance of the region. Since its opening, the airport has constantly evolved. Its growth became particularly rapid with the development of the maquiladora (assembly plant) programme, which transformed Ciudad Juárez into one of the country's largest industrial centres. This led to a sharp increase in both passenger and cargo transport.

A key stage in the modern history of the airport was the year 2000, when its management was transferred to the private operator Grupo Aeroportuario Centro Norte (OMA). From this moment, an era of large-scale modernisation began. Reconstructions of runways were carried out, the passenger terminal was expanded and updated, and infrastructure for servicing cargo flights was improved. In recent years, projects to further increase capacity have been implemented to meet the constantly growing passenger traffic, which regularly breaks records.

Today, Abraham Gonzalez Airport is one of the busiest in Mexico, especially in the cargo transport segment, reflecting its strategic importance for international trade. It serves as a gateway for thousands of business people, engineers, and tourists arriving daily in this dynamic border city. Its history is a clear example of how modern infrastructure contributes to economic prosperity and the integration of the region into global processes.

Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS) in Ciudad Juárez offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find amenities here that will make your journey more pleasant.

Dining and Shopping: The terminal houses restaurants and cafes where you can have a snack before departure, enjoy Mexican cuisine dishes, or have a cup of coffee. For shopping enthusiasts, there are stores offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and products in the Duty Free zone.

Lounges and VIP Service: For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, the airport has a VIP lounge. Here you can relax in a calm atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and work in silence.

Connectivity and Convenience: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or attend to work matters. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices.

Financial and Medical Services: ATMs are installed in the airport for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points are also available. In case of need, passengers can visit the first aid station.

Services for Passengers with Children and Reduced Mobility: The airport is equipped for the comfortable stay of families with children—there are nursing rooms available. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and escort services (upon prior request to the airline) are provided.

Hotels and Business Services: There are no hotels directly within the airport building, however, several hotels of various price categories are located nearby, many of which offer free shuttles for their guests. For business travellers, conference rooms and business centres are available where meetings can be held or work can be done while waiting for a flight.

At Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (CJS), passengers will find several decent options for a snack or a full meal to help pass the time while waiting for a flight. Dining establishments are conveniently located in the main terminal area and offer both local cuisine dishes and familiar international options.

For a full meal in a comfortable setting, the restaurant Wings is an excellent choice. Here you can leisurely enjoy hot dishes, including Mexico classics like enchiladas or chilaquiles, as well as popular international items. This is a great choice for those who have time before departure.

If you need a quick snack, several establishments are at your service. At the international coffeehouse Starbucks, you can grab your usual coffee, pastries, or a sandwich. Another good option is the cafe Deli & Cia, which specialises in fresh sandwiches, salads, and light snacks, perfect for taking food on board with you.

Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the Departure Zone (airside), after passing security control. In the public zone before control (landside), the selection is usually more limited. Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian options (such as salads or vegetable dishes) can be found in most establishments. However, specialised vegan, Halal, or gluten-free restaurants may not be available, so it is recommended to clarify the ingredients with the staff in advance.

Food prices at Ciudad Juárez airport correspond to the standard level for airport terminals and are expectedly higher than in the city. Major establishments open early in the morning and operate until the last flight departs, however, exact operating hours may vary. We advise checking the current schedule on-site, especially if your departure is scheduled for a late hour.

Planning a trip through Abraham Gonzalez International Airport in Ciudad Juárez requires a little preparation. To avoid unnecessary rushing, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete all procedures. Try to check in for your flight online—this will save you time in queues. If travelling only with hand luggage, you can proceed directly to the security checkpoint.

Security screening at airports in Mexico is standard, but be prepared in advance: remove laptops and other large electronics from bags, and take off outerwear and belts. Remember the rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. This also applies to souvenir beverages, such as tequila—they can only be transported in checked luggage. The importation of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat products without a special permit is also strictly prohibited.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat will allow you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Upon arrival in Mexico, you will have to undergo customs control. A "traffic light" system often operates here: you press a button, and if a green light turns on, you pass without inspection, but if it is red, your luggage may be checked. Honestly declare all goods subject to duty to avoid fines.

If you have a transfer in Ciudad Juárez, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. This is especially important when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. They are obliged to provide information on the flight status and, depending on the length of the delay, offer beverages, meals, or hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to request compensation later.

To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security screening. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically inflated. Also, research transfer options to the city in advance: sometimes it is more cost-effective to order a taxi through official counters in the arrival hall or use online booking services than to hail a car on the street.