66 Flights Diverted as Mexico City Airport Shuts Down Due to Flooding

A severe weather system has brought Mexico City’s aviation operations to a standstill this evening, with at least 66 flights diverted following the temporary closure of Benito Juárez International Airport (AICM). Torrential rains and flash flooding have overwhelmed the airport’s infrastructure, prompting emergency protocols and widespread disruption across the region.

The closure comes amid a purple and red alert issued by the Secretariat of Comprehensive Risk Management and Civil Protection, signaling extreme rainfall and high risk of flooding and hail. Runways and access roads including Boulevard Aeropuerto and Circuito Interior have been submerged, rendering the airport unsafe for landings and takeoffs.

International flights from cities such as London, Washington, and Orlando have been rerouted to alternate airports including Aguascalientes and Querétaro, while domestic flights have been diverted to Toluca, Acapulco, and Guadalajara. The number of diversions continues to climb as weather conditions worsen.

Flooding has also paralyzed public transport, with Metro Line 2 partially suspended due to a short-circuit fire and Cablebús Line 3 evacuated amid thunderstorms. In the city’s historic center and key districts like Condesa and Roma, streets have turned into rivers, stranding commuters and vehicles.

The National Water Commission (Conagua) forecasts rainfall levels reaching up to 75 millimeters, with storms expected to persist until late evening. Authorities warn of potential landslides and further infrastructure damage.

This disruption adds to a growing list of operational challenges at AICM, which has already been grappling with saturation and delays this season. The airport leads Latin America in flight delays, with over 3,000 delays recorded between April and June.

As emergency crews work to restore access and assess damage, passengers are urged to check with their airlines for updated flight information and avoid non-essential travel. The airport remains closed until further notice, with more diversions expected throughout the night.