Mexico's GAP Unveils $3 Billion Airport Expansion, Targeting 85M Passengers by 2030
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Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) is investing 52 billion pesos ($3B) to expand 12 terminals, boosting annual passenger capacity to 85 million by 2030.
Key Takeaways
- •Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) committed 52 billion pesos (US $3 billion) to its 2025-2030 Master Development Plan.
- •The plan will expand 12 terminals, increasing overall infrastructure by 58% and targeting up to 85 million annual passengers by 2030.
- •Major hubs Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Tijuana, and Los Cabos will see terminal space increase by 91%, 134%, 47%, and 37%, respectively.
- •Tijuana International Airport will receive a critical Category 2 Instrument Landing System (ILS) by June, improving low-visibility operations.
Mexican airport operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) announced a major 52 billion-peso investment (approximately US $3 billion). This funding is part of the company's 2025-2030 Master Development Plan (PMD). The goal is a 40% growth in passenger traffic by the end of the decade. GAP expects its annual passenger total to reach up to 85 million by 2030, up from 66 million in 2025.
Expanding Mexico's Aviation Infrastructure
The ambitious GAP airport expansion program will increase the operator's overall infrastructure by 58%. This includes work across all 12 of its airport terminals in Mexico. The largest investments are focused on the four busiest gateways: Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Tijuana, and Los Cabos.
By the end of 2029, these four key airports will see significant increases in terminal square meters:
- Puerto Vallarta will expand by 134%.
- Guadalajara will expand by 91%.
- Tijuana will expand by 47%.
- Los Cabos will expand by 37%.
GAP CEO Raúl Revuelta detailed the investment breakdown at a recent press conference. Approximately 26 billion pesos ($1.5 billion) is projected for the western hubs of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. The Tijuana and Mexicali airports, key U.S. gateway airports, will receive 11.4 billion pesos ($659 million). The tourism-focused Los Cabos and La Paz airports in Baja California Sur will see an 8 billion pesos ($463 million) investment.
Technology and Safety Upgrades
Beyond physical expansion, the plan focuses on modernizing airport technology. GAP aims to improve the passenger experience and operational efficiency. New technologies include facial recognition systems and license plate reading for ticketless parking.
A critical safety upgrade is planned for Tijuana International Airport. The airport will be equipped with a Category 2 Instrument Landing System (ILS) by June. This advanced low-visibility landing technology allows aircraft to land safely in dense fog or poor weather. Currently, only Felipe Ángeles International Airport and Toluca International Airport have this technology in Mexico. The upgrade will significantly reduce flight delays and cancellations at the border airport.
Driving Regional Economic Growth
The projected 40% growth by 2030 is driven by several factors. Increased passenger traffic at Guadalajara International Airport is a major contributor, particularly with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tourism boom in beach destinations like Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta is also fueling demand.
- Opportunity: The expansion supports a surge in Canadian tourism. This market is looking for alternative North American sun-and-sea destinations.
- Connectivity: The investment includes expansion of the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) terminal at Tijuana. This facility links the airport directly to the United States.
- Cargo: GAP also plans to add four new cargo positions. This will support regional trade and logistics competitiveness.
This historic 52 billion-peso investment reinforces the role of GAP's airports as engines for regional development. The modernization ensures Mexico's aviation sector can meet rising air travel demand for decades.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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