Mexico City Airport Transportation
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Mexico City International Airport offers several transportation options connecting the terminals with the city center and other destinations across the metropolitan area. Travelers can choose between public transport (Metro, Metrobus, buses) and private services such as taxis, ride-hailing, or car rentals.
Because the airport is located only about 7–8 km from downtown Mexico City, transfers are relatively quick, typically 20–45 minutes depending on traffic and the transport option chosen. (
Mexico City traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM). If you have a flight to catch, consider leaving earlier than usual.
Buses & Shuttle Services
Public buses and airport shuttle services provide one of the most economical ways to travel between the airport and the city.
The most popular option is the Metrobus Line 4, which connects the airport directly with downtown areas such as San Lázaro, Paseo de la Reforma, and the Historic Center. The buses run every 15 minutes and operate roughly from 04:30 until midnight.
Boarding points are located at:
- Terminal 1 – Gate 7
- Terminal 2 – Gate 2
The ticket costs around MX$30 per passenger, and passengers must use the Integrated Mobility Card, available at vending machines in the terminals.
Some long-distance buses also depart from the airport, connecting cities such as Puebla, Toluca, Querétaro, and Cuernavaca.
If you are traveling light and staying near downtown, the Metrobus is one of the best value options.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing (VTC)
Official airport taxis are available 24 hours a day outside both terminals. These taxis operate with fixed fares depending on the zone of Mexico City.
A typical taxi ride from the airport to the city center costs around MX$250–MX$350 and takes about 20 minutes in normal traffic conditions.
Authorized taxi counters are located inside the arrivals halls, where passengers pay before boarding the vehicle.
Ride-hailing services such as Uber and DiDi also operate in the city, though pick-up locations may vary depending on airport regulations.
Always choose official airport taxis or licensed ride-hailing services to avoid scams.
Metro (Subway)
The Mexico City Metro is the cheapest way to reach the city from the airport.
The closest station is Terminal Aérea (Line 5), located about a 10-minute walk from Terminal 1. From there, passengers can connect to other lines to reach different parts of the city.
- Travel time to downtown: around 45–50 minutes
- Ticket price: about MX$5 per ride
Although the metro is extremely cheap, it can be crowded during peak hours and may not be ideal for travelers with large luggage.
If you arrive late at night or with many bags, taxis or private transfers are usually more comfortable.
Car Rental
Several international and local companies offer car rental services directly at the airport. Rental desks are located inside the arrivals areas of both terminals, with nearby parking lots for vehicle pick-up.
Typical rental prices start from $20–$30 per day for small economy cars, while SUVs or larger vehicles may cost $50 or more per day depending on the season.
Driving from the airport is convenient for visiting destinations outside the city, including:
- Teotihuacán Pyramids – about 50 km
- Puebla – about 2 hours by car
- Toluca – around 1.5 hours
Traffic in Mexico City can be intense, so renting a car is usually best for day trips outside the city rather than downtown travel.
Transfers
If you want private transportation to and from Mexico Airport, you can book a transfer.
Arriving by Private Car
Travelers arriving at the airport by private car can access the terminals via Avenida Capitán Carlos León, which connects directly with the city’s main road network.
Both terminals offer large parking facilities for short-term and long-term parking.
Typical driving times:
- Downtown Mexico City: 20–30 minutes
- Paseo de la Reforma: 25 minutes
- Polanco district: 30–40 minutes
During peak traffic hours, travel times may double, so always allow extra time when driving to the airport.
Transport Comparison – Airport to Downtown Mexico City
Typical Destinations from the Airport