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Guanajuato International Airport

About the Airport

Guanajuato International Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), also known as Del Bajío International Airport, serves as the air gateway to two colourful Mexican cities — the industrial centre of Leon and the fairytale city of Guanajuato. Strategically located between them, this airport is a vital transport hub for the entire state of Guanajuato, one of the most economically developed regions of Mexico. It hosts both domestic and international flights, connecting central Mexico with major US cities and popular tourist destinations within the country.

IATA Code BJX
ICAO Code MMLO
City Leon, Guanajuato
Distance to Centre About 28 km to the centre of Leon and 29 km to the centre of Guanajuato.
Status International.
Passengers per Year Over 3.2 million (based on 2023 data).
Popular Airlines Volaris, Aeromexico, American Airlines.
Schedule online flight board "Guanajuato International Airport"

Guanajuato Airport is characterised by its compactness and easy navigation, making it comfortable for travellers. Despite its relatively small size, it offers all necessary services: from shops and cafes featuring local cuisine to car hire offices and tourist information desks. Thanks to its location, the airport is an ideal starting point for exploring the colonial architecture, historic mines, and cultural festivals for which this region is famous. The air harbour serves flights to major hubs such as Mexico City, Cancun, Chicago, Dallas, and Houston, ensuring convenient connections for tourists and business travellers.

Contact Information

Below is the contact information for Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), also known as Del Bajío Airport, which serves the cities of Leon and Guanajuato.

  • Official Website: aeropuertosgap.com.mx/es/guanajuato
  • Information Desk Phone: +52 (472) 748 2120
  • Address: Carretera Silao-León Km 5.5, Col. Nuevo México, C.P. 36270, Silao, Gto., México
  • Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
  • Social Media: You can follow news from the managing company, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), on their official accounts, which also cover Guanajuato Airport.
  • Lost & Found: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, please contact the baggage tracing service at +52 (472) 748 2120 (ext. 145) or via email: objetosextraviadosbjx@aeropuertosgap.com.mx. For luggage lost on board the aircraft, please contact your airline directly.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or information, you can contact the main airport phone number or use the contact section on the official website.

How to Get to the Airport

Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), located between the cities of Leon and Guanajuato, offers travellers several convenient ways to reach the terminal. Regardless of your budget and plans, you will be able to find the optimal option for your trip to the airport from anywhere in the Bajío region of Mexico.

Public Transport is the most economical method. Specialised bus companies, such as Unebus, offer regular services connecting the airport with the central bus stations of Leon and Guanajuato. This is a reliable and affordable option, especially if you are travelling light. A bus ride to the centre of Leon usually takes about 40-50 minutes, and the ticket cost is the lowest among all available options.

Taxis and Transfers. For greater comfort and speed, you can use taxi services. There are counters for official carriers at the airport where you can pay for your ride in advance at a fixed rate to your destination. This is the safest way to avoid overcharging. Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber or DiDi are also available in the region and may offer competitive prices. A taxi ride to the centre of Leon will take approximately 30 minutes, excluding traffic.

Car Hire. If you plan to travel actively around the region, renting a car is an excellent solution. Offices of leading international and local rental companies are located in the arrivals hall of Guanajuato Airport. Having your own transport will give you freedom of movement and allow you to explore not only major cities but also the picturesque surroundings. The airport territory also features convenient parking where you can leave a car for both short and long terms.

Terminals and Map

Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), also known as Del Bajío Airport, is distinguished by a well-thought-out and passenger-friendly structure. It consists of one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Such compactness significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need for long transfers between different buildings.

The terminal is arranged logically and intuitively. Generally, its space is divided into two levels. The upper level houses the departure area: airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control for international destinations, followed by the departure lounge with boarding gates. The lower level is designed for arriving passengers. Here you will find baggage claim areas, customs control, and the main arrivals hall, where you can find car hire offices, taxi counters, and meet those arriving.

Since all operations are concentrated in one building, transitions between zones take minimum time. After passing security, you enter the general "airside" area, from where boarding for all flights takes place. Navigation is straightforward thanks to clear signs in Spanish and English. Airport staff are always ready to help and guide you.

It is recommended to allow standard time for completing all formalities. For domestic flights, it is best to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5–3 hours. Although Guanajuato Airport is not as busy as capital hubs, queues for check-in and security may increase during holidays or the tourist season. Having extra time will allow you to calmly go through all procedures and even have time for a coffee before your flight.

Airport History

The history of Guanajuato International Airport, officially known as Aeropuerto Internacional del Bajío (BJX), is closely linked to the economic growth of the region. The airport was opened in 1979 to serve the thriving industrial centre — the city of Leon and the eponymous state. Initially, it was a modest regional hub, but its strategic location in the heart of the Bajío industrial cluster predetermined its rapid development.

A key moment in the airport's history was the transfer of management to the private operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) in 1999. This step marked the beginning of an era of large-scale investment and modernisation. The new management company focused on expanding the route network, attracting international airlines, and improving the quality of passenger service to meet the growing needs of business and tourism in Mexico.

The most significant reconstruction was completed in 2018. As part of this project, the terminal area was more than doubled, new boarding gates appeared, and the security screening area and commercial spaces were completely rebuilt. This modernisation not only increased capacity but also radically changed the passenger experience, making the airport one of the most modern in the country. Today, it is capable of serving millions of travellers per year.

Among the airport's achievements is the steady growth in passenger traffic, which has brought it into the top ten busiest airports in Mexico. An interesting fact: although the airport is often associated with the city of Leon, it is located in the neighbouring municipality of Silao. This location is strategic, as it allows it to effectively serve several key cities in the state, including the capital Guanajuato and the important industrial centre of Irapuato, playing a key role in the logistics and business travel of the entire region.

Services and Amenities

Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) offers its guests a wide range of services designed to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything necessary for a pleasant time here.

For those who are hungry, there are several restaurants and cafes in the terminal, offering both local Mexican dishes and familiar international snacks. In the shops, including the Duty Free zone, you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, perfumes and alcohol. To stay connected, make use of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport, as well as numerous charging stations for electronic devices.

Passengers preferring privacy and enhanced comfort can use the services of VIP lounges. Here, in a quiet atmosphere, you can work or relax before your flight. For financial matters, there are ATMs and currency exchange points at the airport. Also available in the terminal are a medical point for first aid and facilities for passengers with children, including nursing rooms.

The airport is fully equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Although there are no hotels directly inside the terminal building, there are many hotels to suit every taste and budget within a few minutes' drive. Some of them also provide conference rooms and business centres for business travellers.

Where to Eat

At Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The airport offers establishments for every taste and budget, allowing you to spend time comfortably while waiting for your flight.

Most cafes and restaurants are located in the main terminal, primarily in the sterile area (airside), that is, after passing security control. However, several establishments, including coffee shops, are also available in the public zone (landside). Here you can find both à la carte restaurants and fast-food outlets. For those wishing to experience Mexican cuisine, it is worth paying attention to places offering dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, or tortas (local sandwiches).

If you are in a hurry, the best choice is fast-food cafes or coffee shops where you can quickly grab a sandwich, pastries, and coffee. For a more leisurely lunch or dinner, full-service restaurants are suitable, where international cuisine is often present on the menu. Regarding special dietary needs, choices may be limited. It is recommended to check with the staff for the availability of vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options — in many places, they are ready to adapt dishes upon request.

Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher than in the city. The opening hours of most establishments are tied to the flight schedule and cover the period from early morning until late evening, so you can refresh yourself at almost any time. There are also bars in the terminal where you can order refreshing and alcoholic drinks while waiting for boarding.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), serving the city of Leon and its surroundings in Mexico, goes as smoothly as possible, use these proven tips. They will help save time, stress, and money.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5–2 hours. This will give you enough time to go through all formalities without rushing, especially during peak tourist seasons when queues are possible.

Check-in and Security Control: To speed up the process, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready. Before passing through screening, remove laptops and other large gadgets, as well as your liquids bag, from your hand luggage in advance.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: If you want to admire the views, choose a window seat. If you prefer the freedom to stand up and stretch your legs, your seat is by the aisle. If it is important for you to disembark the plane among the first, book seats in the front part of the cabin.

Hand Luggage Rules: Standard international rules apply here. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in one transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Always check the baggage and hand luggage allowances on your airline's website.

If You Have a Connection: Check with the airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again for the next flight. In some cases, international transits require passing through customs and passport control. While waiting for your flight, you can relax in a cafe or visit shops within the airport.

Customs Control: Upon arrival in Mexico, you will need to complete a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid possible fines. The procedure usually goes quickly, but be prepared to answer the customs officer's questions about the purpose of your visit.

Saving Time and Money: Besides online check-in, booking a transfer from the airport in advance will help save time. To avoid overpaying for water, bring an empty bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your further actions. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance that covers such cases will also be a big plus.

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