Colima airport undergoes a significant remodeling worth $17.5 million, aiming to upgrade its facilities and meet international standards.
In the heart of Mexico's lesser-known states, Colima, a Pacific coast gem known for its untouched nature, historic sites, and alluring appeal, is set to attract more visitors with the ambitious expansion and modernization of its airport.
Currently, the Colima airport serves only two routes, one operated by Volaris to Tijuana and another by Aeroméxico to Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA). However, this is about to change, as the Miguel de la Madrid Hurtado National Airport undergoes a major transformation.
The project, valued at around US$17.2–18.9 million (MX$327 million), aims to transform the airport into an international hub, significantly increasing its passenger capacity, expanding facilities, and enhancing connectivity and economic prospects for Colima state.
Key details of the expansion include a 243% increase in the terminal operational area, a fivefold increase in airport arrivals capacity and a sevenfold increase in waiting room capacity. The terminal building, security, documentation areas, and passenger amenities will be renovated, while upgrades to the runway, taxiways, and aprons will improve safety and user comfort.
Upon becoming an international airport, Miguel de la Madrid will join Semar-controlled airports such as Ciudad del Carmen, Ciudad Obregón, Guaymas, Loreto, Matamoros, and Mexico City International Airport (AICM).
The transformation is part of the Mexican government's strategy of promoting regional development by enhancing air connectivity. Upon its completion, the airport is expected to boost regional connectivity, tourism, and Colima's economy.
Colima Governor Indira Vizcaíno Silva attended the launch ceremony and welcomed the commencement of the work. The modernization of the terminal and its new international status are expected to generate new routes, increase the number of domestic and international visitors, and position Colima as a strategic hub for tourism, trade, and investment in Mexico's West.
As the project progresses, it is anticipated that the airport will generate jobs, attract more visitors, and open up new opportunities for trade and investment. With the expansion, the airport's commercial flights are expected to connect to more destinations, further enhancing Colima's potential as a tourist and economic powerhouse.
References:
- El Universal
- El Sol de Colima
- Sin Embargo
- El Financiero
- El Debate
- The expansion of Miguel de la Madrid National Airport in Colima, currently serving limited routes, aims to transform it into an international hub, attracting more visitors and boosting the local economy.
- Upon completion, this modernized airport is anticipated to join other airports under the Semar control, such as Ciudad del Carmen, Guaymas, and Mexico City International Airport, bolstering connectivity throughout the region.
- As a strategic hub for trade, investment, and tourism, Colima could see an increase in domestic and international visitors due to the expected growth in commercial flights connecting to various destinations post-expansion.
