Felipe Angeles International Airport

Airport Features and Highlights:

Unique museums right in the terminal. The most surprising feature of the airport is the "Mammoth Museum" (Museo del Mamut), opened after thousands of bones of these prehistoric giants were found during the excavation of the foundation. The Military Aviation Museum (MUMA) also operates here, where you can view historical aircraft of the Mexican Air Force.

Themed restrooms as art installations. Designers have turned a visit to the restrooms into a cultural excursion. Each one is decorated in a unique style: from the vibrant masks of "Lucha Libre" wrestlers and portraits of stars from the Golden Age of Mexican cinema to motifs of the Day of the Dead and Aztec symbols.

Economy and comfort. The airport charges a significantly lower airport use fee (TUA) compared to the main capital hub, which often makes tickets here cheaper. Passengers also note the spacious halls, lack of queues, and modern biometric equipment for rapid security clearance.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU). We recommend verifying the data on the official website before your trip, as details may change.

• Official Website: aifa.aero
• Information Service Phone: +52 55 9128 6000
• Address: Carretera Federal México-Pachuca Km. 42.5, Santa Lucía, 55640 Zumpango de Ocampo, Méx., México
• Email: For general inquiries and feedback, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, where current news and important announcements for passengers are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative directly at the airport. Contact details for the Lost & Found service of a specific airline can be found on their official website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For immediate assistance and consultations, you can use the airport information service phone number.

Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) is located north of Mexico City and is one of the country's newest transport hubs. Given its significant distance from the central districts, it is important to plan your route in advance. You can get to the airport in several ways, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and luggage.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The primary means is the Mexibús bus rapid transit system. Mexibús Line 1 has been extended directly to the AIFA terminals. A key transfer point is the Ciudad Azteca station, which connects to Line B of the Mexico City Metro. A trip on Mexibús is inexpensive but can take a considerable amount of time — from 1.5 to 2.5 hours from the city centre, including transfers. This method is best suited for travellers with light luggage. Construction is also underway for the Tren Suburbano suburban train line, which will allow for much faster travel to the airport in the future.

Taxis and Ride-hailing Services (Uber, DiDi) offer the most comfortable way to reach the airport. A trip from central areas such as Roma or Condesa will take between 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. The cost can vary significantly — from 500 to 1000 Mexican pesos and above, especially during peak hours. To avoid price surprises, you can book a private transfer in advance. This ensures a fixed cost and a meet-and-greet service by the driver at a location convenient for you.

Car Rental may be convenient if you plan to travel around the outskirts of Mexico after arrival or are heading to the airport from another city, for example, from Querétaro or Puebla. AIFA has modern parking complexes where you can leave a car for a short or long term. However, please note that driving in Mexico City requires experience due to heavy traffic and local driving customs.

Regardless of the chosen method, it is strongly recommended to leave with ample time to spare. AIFA serves as an important alternative to the busier Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) and is conveniently located for access to other major transport hubs, such as Toluca International Airport (TLC). Always check the current traffic situation before setting off to ensure your journey begins without unnecessary stress.

Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) is a modern and thoughtfully designed transport hub, engineered for maximum passenger convenience. Currently, the airport operates with one large passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its novelty and spacious layout, navigation within it is intuitive.

The terminal structure is logical and simple. It is a single building where key zones are clearly separated. On one level, you will find check-in counters grouped by airlines and a centralised security screening area. After passing security control, passengers enter a spacious departure hall, which is divided into gates for domestic and international destinations. Arrival zones are located on a different level, which avoids the crossing of arriving and departing passenger flows.

Since all operations are carried out within a single terminal, transfers between sectors are not required. If you have a connecting flight (for example, from domestic to international), you simply need to follow the signs to the appropriate gate, possibly passing through additional passport control. All navigation is accompanied by clear and modern signage in Spanish and English.

One of the advantages of NLU airport is its relatively low congestion compared to other major hubs. This means that the time for check-in and security screening is generally shorter. Nevertheless, it is recommended to adhere to standard rules: arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before for an international one. This time will be more than sufficient to calmly complete all formalities, check in luggage, and find your boarding gate.

The history of Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) is the story of one of the newest and most ambitious infrastructure projects in modern Mexico. Unlike airports with a century of history, NLU was officially opened very recently — on March 21, 2022. Its creation was a response to the growing need to relieve congestion at the main airport of Mexico City (AICM). However, its roots go deeper, as it was built on the territory of the country's oldest and most important military airbase — Santa Lucía.

The Santa Lucía Airbase (Base Aérea Militar n.º 1 Santa Lucía) has functioned since 1952, playing a key role in the country's military aviation. The decision to transform part of its territory into a major civilian airport was made in 2018. This step became an alternative to the previously planned but cancelled project to build a new airport in Texcoco. Thus, the history of NLU is not so much a reconstruction as the full-scale construction of a new terminal and runways alongside existing military infrastructure.

One of the most remarkable facts in the history of the airport's construction is its realization by the engineering corps of the Mexican Army. This allowed the project to be completed in record time, approximately two and a half years. Since its opening, the airport has constantly increased passenger traffic and the number of routes. Its development continues, with plans for further expansion to serve both domestic and international flights, making it a key element of the capital region's new air transport system.

The airport is named in honour of General Felipe Ángeles, a prominent figure from the time of the Mexican Revolution, highlighting its connection to national history. Interestingly, NLU has retained its dual status: it is simultaneously a modern civilian hub and continues to function as an important military airbase. This unique shared-use model makes it one of the most unusual airports in North America.

Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) offers passengers modern infrastructure and a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and refreshment areas where you can have a full meal, a snack, or a cup of coffee. For those planning to shop, there are Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls, and boutiques offering local and international goods.

For passengers preferring privacy and enhanced comfort, premium lounges and VIP areas are available. Here you can relax in comfortable armchairs, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and work in a quiet environment. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous power outlets and USB ports for charging electronic devices will help you stay connected.

The airport provides all necessary financial services: there are bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. To ensure passenger safety and health, a medical centre operates around the clock, ready to provide first aid. Travellers with children can use the mother and child rooms, equipped with everything necessary for baby care.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. The terminal is equipped with ramps, elevators, escalators, and specially fitted restrooms. Passengers can request assistance services in advance through their airline or ask for help at information desks upon arrival at the airport.

For business travellers, business centres or conference rooms for meetings may be available. If you have a long layover or an early departure, you can stay at one of the hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, allowing you to save travel time and rest fully before your flight.

At Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU), passengers are offered a wide selection of establishments where they can have a snack or a full lunch. Dining options cater to every taste and budget, from fast-food outlets to a la carte restaurants.

The majority of cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the departure zone after security control (airside), allowing passengers to relax while waiting for their flight. However, several establishments are also available in the public zone (landside), where you can spend time with well-wishers or upon arrival.

For those wishing to experience Mexican cuisine, the airport offers an excellent opportunity. Look for restaurants featuring national dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, or hearty tortas (Mexican sandwiches). This is a wonderful chance to enjoy authentic flavours before departure. Additionally, you can find establishments specialising in steaks and international cuisine.

If you are short on time, numerous coffee shops and fast-food points are at your service. Here you can order fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and, of course, a cup of aromatic Mexican coffee. This is an ideal option for a quick and light snack right before boarding.

Many establishments take into account the dietary needs of travellers. You will be able to find vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as gluten-free options. While Halal certification is not universal, vegetarian and seafood options are widely available; it is recommended to study the menu or ask the staff to clarify ingredients. The price range varies: from affordable prices in fast-food chains to a higher average bill in full-service restaurants.

The opening hours of most establishments are adapted to flight schedules. Many cafes and restaurants in the departure zone operate around the clock or from early morning until late at night to serve passengers of all flights. Establishments in the public zone usually have a more standard operating schedule.

To ensure your journey through Felipe Ángeles International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, please review our tips. Given that the airport is located at some distance from the centre of Mexico City, plan your time with a buffer. We recommend arriving at the airport 3-4 hours before international flights and 2-3 hours before domestic ones.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines offer. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only. The security screening procedure is standard, but be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics, as well as your bag of liquids, from your carry-on in advance.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, especially if flying over picturesque regions of Mexico. Aisle seats are convenient for those who wish to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. If a quick exit after landing is important, choose seats in the front part of the cabin.

In hand luggage, you are permitted to carry personal items, electronics, documents, and medicines. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. It is prohibited to bring many types of seeds, plants, and fresh produce into Mexico, so be careful if carrying any edible souvenirs. Sharp objects and weapons are, of course, strictly prohibited.

Passengers with connections should clarify in advance whether they need to collect and re-check their luggage. This is particularly relevant when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one. Customs control in Mexico City often operates on a "traffic light" system: you press a button, and if a green light turns on, you pass without inspection; if red, your luggage will be checked. Keep your completed customs declaration ready.

To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so a light snack brought from home is also useful. The main way to save time is to prepare in advance all documents (passport, boarding pass) and be organised at all stages of control.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information about the new departure time and possible compensation (food vouchers, hotel accommodation). Use this time to explore the shops, rest in a cafe, or use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to inform loved ones about changes in plans.