Matamoros Airport

Welcome to General Servando Canales International Airport, the aerial gateway to the city of Matamoros in northeastern Mexico. Located in the state of Tamaulipas, just a few kilometres from the US border, this airport is a vital transport hub for both business travellers and tourists. It serves as a starting point for exploring a unique region where Mexican culture meets American influence, offering convenient access to industrial centres and tourist routes.

Matamoros Airport, named in honour of the former state governor Servando Canales, is managed by the state-owned company Aeropuertos y Servicios Auxiliares (ASA). Despite its international status, it currently primarily serves domestic flights, connecting the region with key cities such as Mexico City. Beyond passenger transport, the airport plays a significant role in logistics, supporting cargo operations as well as private and business aviation. Its strategic location near the US-Mexico border makes it an important facility for serving the binational Matamoros-Brownsville metropolitan area, offering travellers a compact and functional terminal for a comfortable start or end to their journey.

Below is the essential contact information for General Servando Canales International Airport (MAM), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any queries.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the official ASA operator page: asa.gob.mx/es/aeropuertos/matamoros.html
• Information Desk Phone: For schedule information, services, and general enquiries, you can call: +52 (868) 812-07-88.
• Airport Address: Carretera a Reynosa Km. 13.5, C.P. 87300, Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico.
• Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the telephone or the contact form on the official website, as a separate public email for general enquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the operator of all regional airports in Mexico, ASA, on their official Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) accounts.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative. For items left within the airport terminal, you can call the administration on the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and advice at the airport, please approach the information desk or call the helpline.

Getting to Matamoros International Airport (MAM), serving the city of Matamoros in Mexico, is quite simple due to its location near the centre. The journey from the city centre typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Travellers have several transport options available, including taxis, car rentals, and local buses.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport is by taxi or pre-booked transfer. Official taxis can be found throughout the city, offering rides to the airport at reasonable rates. This option ensures comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage. It is recommended to use authorised companies or book a car through trusted apps for greater safety and price predictability.

The most economical way to get to the airport is by public transport. Although there may not be a direct express route from the city centre, local buses and shared taxis (colectivos) run along the main streets and can take you to the airport area. This option is best suited for those travelling light and those familiar with the city. The fare is minimal, but be prepared that the journey may take longer.

If you prefer independence in your movements, car rental is an excellent choice. Offices of several rental companies operate at the airport and in the city. With a rented car, you can not only reach the airport comfortably but also explore the surroundings of Matamoros. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking is available, offering both short-term and long-term options.

When planning your trip, it is worth noting that there are other airports in the immediate vicinity of Matamoros. Just 18 km away, across the border in the USA, is Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (BRO). Also relatively close, approximately 75 km away, is the Mexican General Lucio Blanco International Airport (REX) in Reynosa. This expands the options for flight selection and route planning across the region.

Matamoros International Airport (MAM), serving the city of Matamoros in northern Mexico, is a compact and convenient aviation hub. All infrastructure is concentrated in a single terminal, which handles both domestic arrivals and departures. Thanks to its small size and simple layout, navigating the airport is intuitive and presents no difficulties even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is logical and straightforward. Upon entering the building, you find yourself in the main hall where the check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area. Beyond that lies a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrivals area is also located in the same building and includes the baggage claim belt and customs control. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to worry about transfers between buildings — all services are within walking distance of each other.

Due to the airport's compactness, completing all pre-flight formalities generally takes little time. Check-in and security screening usually proceed quickly, without long queues. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport the standard 1.5–2 hours before departure to go through all procedures without rushing, especially during peak hours.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are mostly duplicated in English. The main landmarks are the signs "Salidas" (Departures) and "Llegadas" (Arrivals). It is practically impossible to get lost here, making the experience at Matamoros Airport as comfortable and predictable as possible.

The history of Matamoros International Airport (MAM), officially known as General Servando Canales Airport, is closely tied to the development of this border city in Mexico. Although small airstrips existed in the region previously, the modern phase of the airport's history began in 1965, when it was incorporated into the state network Aeropuertos y Servicios Auxiliares (ASA). This step marked the starting point for its transformation into an important transport hub serving both passenger and cargo traffic on the border with the USA.

The main phase of the airport's modernisation took place in the early 2000s. Due to the growth in passenger traffic and the economic development of the region, a decision was made to build a new terminal. This major update significantly improved service quality, increased capacity, and brought the infrastructure in line with modern standards. The new terminal was designed to ensure passenger comfort and airline efficiency, reinforcing Matamoros' status as an important business and tourist centre.

An interesting fact: the airport is named after General Servando Canales, a prominent military and political figure of the 19th century who hailed from the state of Tamaulipas. This is a tribute to local history and its heroes. Throughout its history, the airport has not set world records, but its main achievement has always been its stable and reliable operation in providing air connectivity for one of the country's key industrial regions, playing a vital role in supporting the local economy and international ties.

Matamoros Airport (MAM), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Before departure, you can have a snack at a local cafe or small restaurant serving local dishes and familiar snacks. Shops are also available within the terminal where you can purchase souvenirs, newspapers, travel essentials, and gifts from Mexico.

For the convenience of travellers, the general waiting hall is equipped with comfortable seating. If you prefer enhanced comfort, you can use the VIP lounge, where beverages and snacks are offered in a quieter atmosphere. Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas, so you can always stay connected.

ATMs are located within the terminal for withdrawing cash. For urgent health-related issues, a medical point is available to provide first aid. Families with small children can use the mother and child room, equipped with everything necessary for baby care.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility. There are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and other facilities. Additionally, passengers can request assistance and wheelchair provision from their airline in advance.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of Matamoros, which is easily accessible by taxi in a short time. There are no specialised conference rooms or business centres in the terminal, but business travellers can utilise such services at major hotels in the city.

Matamoros Airport (MAM) is a small regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Travellers requiring a full meal or specific dietary dishes are advised to eat in the city of Matamoros before travelling to the airport. However, for those looking for a snack or a coffee, there are a few basic options.

Typically, in the main hall of the airport, in the area before security control (landside), there is a small cafe or snack bar. Here, passengers and those seeing them off can purchase sandwiches, pastries, crisps, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks such as coffee, tea, and carbonated water. This is the main and often the only option for a snack at the airport. The opening hours of such establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open before the first departure and close after the last one leaves.

Regarding a full lunch or dinner, finding a restaurant with hot meals at the airport is unlikely. The menu is mainly focused on quick snacks. Sometimes the assortment may include some local pastries, but one should not count on a wide selection of authentic Mexican cuisine. After passing security control (airside), there may be a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks, but its presence and assortment can vary.

Passengers with specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets, will find it extremely difficult to find suitable options. The assortment is usually standard and does not include specialised dishes. In this case, it is most reliable to bring food with you. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher than in the city.

Travelling through the airport of Matamoros in Mexico can be an easy and pleasant start or end to your trip if you prepare in advance. Here are some useful tips to help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24-48 hours before departure. This way, you can head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if travelling light, to the security zone.

Security Control and Seat Selection. When going through security, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics, as well as containers with liquids, from your hand luggage. To speed up the process, pack all liquids in a transparent bag in advance. Regarding seat selection on the plane: if you love beautiful views, choose a window seat. An aisle seat is suitable for those who want the freedom to stand up and stretch their legs. Seats in the front of the cabin will allow you to disembark faster upon arrival.

Hand Luggage Rules. Standard international rules limit the transport of liquids in hand luggage: each container must not exceed 100 ml, and the total volume of all liquids must not exceed 1 litre. All of them must be packed in a single transparent resealable bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin. Always check the exact baggage and hand luggage allowances on your airline's website, as they may vary.

Passengers with Connections and Customs Control. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport. When entering or leaving Mexico, you will have to pass through customs control. You will need to complete a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid fines and delays.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets and airport transfers in advance to get the best prices. Travel on weekdays or during the low season if possible. To avoid paying for excess weight, weigh your luggage at home. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — you can fill it after passing security and save on buying drinks.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, the carrier may be obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Stay calm and clarify your rights as a passenger. It is useful to have a portable phone charger and an interesting book with you to pass the waiting time.