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Bajío International Airport: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 20°59′36″N 101°28′51″W / 20.99333°N 101.48083°W / 20.99333; -101.48083
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| stat-year = 2023
| stat-year = 2023
| stat1-header = Total passengers
| stat1-header = Total passengers
| stat1-data = 3,220,800
| stat1-data = 3,195,946
| stat2-header = Ranking in Mexico
| stat2-header = Ranking in Mexico
| stat2-data = 9th {{steady}}
| stat2-data = 9th {{steady}}
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| utc = [[UTC−06:00]]
| utc = [[UTC−06:00]]
}}
}}
'''León/Bajio International Airport''' ({{lang-es|Aeropuerto Internacional de León/Bajío}}); officially ''Aeropuerto Internacional de Guanajuato'' ('''Guanajuato International Airport''') {{Airport codes|BJX|MMLO}}, is an international airport situated in [[Silao]], [[Guanajuato]], [[Mexico]]. It is the main international airport serving the [[León, Guanajuato|Greater León Metropolitan Area]] and the [[Guanajuato|State of Guanajuato]], which is home to a population of 6 million residents, including the cities of [[Celaya]], [[Guanajuato (city)|Guanajuato]], [[Irapuato]], [[Salamanca, Guanajuato|Salamanca]], and [[San Miguel de Allende]]. In addition to offering domestic flights within Mexico, it serves as a gateway for international travel, connecting Central Mexico to various destinations in the [[United States]]. It serves as a focus city for [[Volaris]] and supports flight training, cargo, logistics and general aviation activities.
'''León/Bajio International Airport''' ({{langx|es|Aeropuerto Internacional de León/Bajío}}); officially ''Aeropuerto Internacional de Guanajuato'' ('''Guanajuato International Airport''') {{Airport codes|BJX|MMLO}}, is an international airport situated in [[Silao]], [[Guanajuato]], [[Mexico]]. It is the main international airport serving the [[León, Guanajuato|Greater León Metropolitan Area]] and the [[Guanajuato|State of Guanajuato]], which is home to a population of 6 million residents, including the cities of [[Celaya]], [[Guanajuato (city)|Guanajuato]], [[Irapuato]], [[Salamanca, Guanajuato|Salamanca]], and [[San Miguel de Allende]]. In addition to offering domestic flights within Mexico, it serves as a gateway for international travel, connecting Central Mexico to various destinations in the [[United States]]. It serves as a focus city for [[Volaris]] and supports flight training, cargo, logistics and general aviation activities.


Operated by [[Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico]] (GAP), Bajío Airport derives its name from the cultural region [[Bajío|"El Bajío"]] (''the lowland''), which is situated within the [[Mexican Plateau|central Mexican plateau]]. It ranks as the [[List of the busiest airports in Mexico|ninth-busiest airport in Mexico]] in terms of passenger numbers and the seventh-busiest for international passenger traffic. In 2022, the airport served 2,603,200 passengers, a figure that increased to 3,220,800 passengers in 2023, marking a substantial 23.7% growth compared to the previous year and becoming the ninth airport in Mexico to surpass three million passengers in a calendar year.<ref name="gap2023" />
Operated by [[Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico]] (GAP), Bajío Airport derives its name from the cultural region [[Bajío|"El Bajío"]] (''the lowland''), which is situated within the [[Mexican Plateau|central Mexican plateau]]. It ranks as the [[List of the busiest airports in Mexico|ninth-busiest airport in Mexico]] in terms of passenger numbers and the seventh-busiest for international passenger traffic. In 2022, the airport served 2,603,200 passengers, a figure that increased to 3,220,800 passengers in 2023, marking a substantial 23.7% growth compared to the previous year and becoming the ninth airport in Mexico to surpass three million passengers in a calendar year.<ref name="gap2023" />
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The airport was inaugurated in 1991 by [[Carlos Salinas de Gortari|President Carlos Salinas de Gortari]], replacing the former San Carlos International Airport located in León.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Los aeropuertos de León |url=https://bonitoleon.com/paolagarcia/historias/los-aeropuertos-leon-gto/}}</ref> The growing industrial activity in the Bajío region and the massive [[Emigration from Mexico|migration of Mexicans]] to the United States in recent decades has been reflected in a substantial increase in international air transport demand. In 1999 the terminal went through an expansion project, improving equipment, and enhancing services for passengers. In February 2001, this airport received Air Force One during [[George W. Bush|President George W. Bush's]] visit to Mexico. On March 23, 2012, the airport welcomed [[Pope Benedict XVI]], who arrived on a direct flight from [[Rome|Rome, Italy]], during his first and only visit to Mexico.
The airport was inaugurated in 1991 by [[Carlos Salinas de Gortari|President Carlos Salinas de Gortari]], replacing the former San Carlos International Airport located in León.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Los aeropuertos de León |url=https://bonitoleon.com/paolagarcia/historias/los-aeropuertos-leon-gto/}}</ref> The growing industrial activity in the Bajío region and the massive [[Emigration from Mexico|migration of Mexicans]] to the United States in recent decades has been reflected in a substantial increase in international air transport demand. In 1999 the terminal went through an expansion project, improving equipment, and enhancing services for passengers. In February 2001, this airport received Air Force One during [[George W. Bush|President George W. Bush's]] visit to Mexico. On March 23, 2012, the airport welcomed [[Pope Benedict XVI]], who arrived on a direct flight from [[Rome|Rome, Italy]], during his first and only visit to Mexico.


At the end of 2015, work began on the construction of a parallel [[taxiway]] along the entire length of the [[Runway|runway.]] In August 2016, the airport opened its first and only [[Airport lounge|VIP lounge]], while modernization and expansion work in the departure area and the entire terminal began, including the relocation of the customs and immigration checkpoint. Work was completed in mid-2018. Throughout its history, the airport has been served by various airlines, including [[Aeromar]], [[Aviacsa]], [[Calafia Airlines]], [[Delta Air Lines]], [[Delta Connection]], [[Interjet]], [[Mexicana de Aviación|Mexicana]], [[TAESA Lineas Aéreas|TAESA]], and [[TAR Aerolíneas]].
At the end of 2015, work began on the construction of a parallel [[taxiway]] along the entire length of the [[runway]]. In August 2016, the airport opened its first and only [[Airport lounge|VIP lounge]], while modernization and expansion work in the departure area and the entire terminal began, including the relocation of the customs and immigration checkpoint. Work was completed in mid-2018. Throughout its history, the airport has been served by various airlines, including [[Aeromar]], [[Aviacsa]], [[Calafia Airlines]], [[Delta Air Lines]], [[Delta Connection]], [[Interjet]], [[Mexicana de Aviación|Mexicana]], [[TAESA Lineas Aéreas|TAESA]], and [[TAR Aerolíneas]].


== Facilities ==
== Facilities ==
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The passenger terminal accommodates both arrivals and departures for domestic and [[International flight|international flights]]. The ground floor houses the arrivals area with customs and immigration facilities, the baggage claim area, and the departures section that includes a check-in area, a security checkpoint, and a departures concourse with gates 4-6 that provide direct access to the apron, enabling passengers to walk to their aircraft. From this departure concourse, access to the upper floor is available, which houses snack bars, souvenir shops, and gates 1 to 3, which are equipped with [[Jet bridge|jet bridges]] for boarding.
The passenger terminal accommodates both arrivals and departures for domestic and [[International flight|international flights]]. The ground floor houses the arrivals area with customs and immigration facilities, the baggage claim area, and the departures section that includes a check-in area, a security checkpoint, and a departures concourse with gates 4-6 that provide direct access to the apron, enabling passengers to walk to their aircraft. From this departure concourse, access to the upper floor is available, which houses snack bars, souvenir shops, and gates 1 to 3, which are equipped with [[Jet bridge|jet bridges]] for boarding.


Bajío Airport currently lacks direct public transportation services, requiring travelers to use other transport options. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking facilities. Car rental services are available on-site, with rental counters for Hertz, Budget, Veico, and [https://www.citycarrental.com City Car Rental] located in the arrivals hall.<ref>[https://www.veico.com/renta-de-autos-en-el-aeropuerto-de-guanajuato/ Veico Car Rental]</ref>
Bajío Airport currently lacks direct public transportation services, requiring travelers to use other transport options. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking facilities. Car rental services are available on-site, with rental counters for Hertz, Budget, Veico, and City Car Rental located in the arrivals hall.<ref>[https://www.veico.com/renta-de-autos-en-el-aeropuerto-de-guanajuato/ Veico Car Rental]</ref>


For intercity bus travel, Primera Plus and Unebus offer services to various destinations including León, [[San Miguel de Allende]], Silao, Guanajuato, [[Purísima del Rincón]], and [[San Francisco del Rincón]]. From León, passengers can connect to various destinations across Mexico. Advanced bookings can be made through shuttle services listed on local tourist websites, such as Viva Aerobus, Primera Plus, and Unebus.[[File:Gtoairport.jpg|thumb|Passenger terminal entrance]]
For intercity bus travel, Primera Plus and Unebus offer services to various destinations including León, [[San Miguel de Allende]], Silao, Guanajuato, [[Purísima del Rincón]], and [[San Francisco del Rincón]]. From León, passengers can connect to various destinations across Mexico. Advanced bookings can be made through shuttle services listed on local tourist websites, such as Viva Aerobus, Primera Plus, and Unebus.[[File:Gtoairport.jpg|thumb|Passenger terminal entrance]]


==Airlines and destinations==
==Airlines and destinations==
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 7.jpg|thumb|Passenger terminal entrance]]

[[File:Del Bajio International Airport.jpg|thumb|Airport view from Highway 45D]]
[[File:Sala última espera bjx.jpg|thumb|Departures concourse]]
[[File:Aeromarket bjx.jpg|thumb|Departures concourse]]
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 5.jpg|thumb|Duty-free shop]]
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 4.jpg|thumb|Passport control area]]
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 6.jpg|thumb|Security area]]
[[File:Vuelo 137 aeromexico.jpg|thumb|Aeromexico Connect Embraer E190 at BJX]]
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 2.jpg|thumb|United Airlines Boeing 737 at BJX]]
[[File:Volaris (Y4) Vuelo 401.JPG|thumb|[[Volaris]] Airbus A321-271N at BJX]]
[[File:Volaris A321-271N (N535VL) at BJX.jpg|thumb|[[Volaris]] Airbus A321-271N at BJX]]
[[File:Aeronaves TSM MD-82(SF) (XA-UTX) at BJX.jpg|thumb|Aeronaves TSM MD-82(SF) (XA-UTX) at BJX]]
=== Passenger ===
=== Passenger ===
{{Airport-dest-list
{{Airport-dest-list
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|{{nowrap|[[Aeroméxico Connect]]}}|[[Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport|Atlanta]], [[Mexico City International Airport|Mexico City]]
|{{nowrap|[[Aeroméxico Connect]]}}|[[Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport|Atlanta]], [[Mexico City International Airport|Mexico City]]
|[[American Airlines]]|[[Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport|Dallas/Fort Worth]]
|[[American Airlines]]|[[Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport|Dallas/Fort Worth]]
|[[American Eagle (airline brand)|American Eagle]]|[[Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport|Dallas/Fort Worth]]
|{{nowrap|[[Aerolínea del Estado Mexicano|Mexicana de Aviación]]}}| [[Felipe Ángeles International Airport|Mexico City–AIFA]] (begins June 24, 2024)<ref>{{cite web|title=Mexican Aviation in Gto. When does the first flight leave?|language=Spanish|url=https://lasillarota.com/guanajuato/estado/2024/1/1/mexicana-de-aviacion-en-gto-cuando-sale-el-primer-vuelo-463441.html|accessdate=January 1, 2024|date=January 2024|website=La Silla Rota}}</ref>
|[[United Airlines ]]|[[George Bush Intercontinental Airport|Houston–Intercontinental]]
|[[United Airlines ]]|[[George Bush Intercontinental Airport|Houston–Intercontinental]]
|[[United Express]]|[[George Bush Intercontinental Airport|Houston–Intercontinental]]
|[[United Express]]|[[George Bush Intercontinental Airport|Houston–Intercontinental]]
|[[Viva Aerobus]]|[[Cancún International Airport|Cancún]], [[O'Hare International Airport|Chicago–O'Hare]], [[Ciudad Juárez International Airport|Ciudad Juárez]], [[Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport|Dallas/Fort Worth]], [[George Bush Intercontinental Airport|Houston–Intercontinental]], [[Mérida International Airport|Mérida]], [[Monterrey International Airport|Monterrey]], [[San Antonio International Airport|San Antonio]], [[Tijuana International Airport|Tijuana]]
|[[Viva (airline)|Viva]]|[[Cancún International Airport|Cancún]], [[O'Hare International Airport|Chicago–O'Hare]], [[Ciudad Juárez International Airport|Ciudad Juárez]], [[Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport|Dallas/Fort Worth]], [[George Bush Intercontinental Airport|Houston–Intercontinental]], [[Mérida International Airport|Mérida]], [[Felipe Ángeles International Airport|Mexico City–AIFA]],<ref>{{cite web|title=Viva Aerobús announces three new routes from AIFA|language=Spanish|url=https://enelaire.mx/viva-aerobus-anuncia-tres-nuevas-rutas-desde-el-aifa/|accessdate=June 13, 2024|date=June 2024|website=EnElAire}}</ref> [[Monterrey International Airport|Monterrey]], [[San Antonio International Airport|San Antonio]], [[Tijuana International Airport|Tijuana]]
|[[Volaris]]| [[Cancún International Airport|Cancún]], [[Midway International Airport|Chicago–Midway]], [[O'Hare International Airport|Chicago–O'Hare]], [[Fresno Yosemite International Airport|Fresno]], [[Hermosillo International Airport|Hermosillo]], [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]], [[Mazatlán International Airport|Mazatlán]], [[Mérida International Airport|Mérida]], [[Mexicali International Airport|Mexicali]], [[Oakland International Airport|Oakland]], [[Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport|Puerto Vallarta]], [[Sacramento International Airport|Sacramento]], [[San Jose International Airport|San Jose (CA)]], [[Los Cabos International Airport|San José del Cabo]], [[Tijuana International Airport|Tijuana]], [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez International Airport|Tuxtla Gutiérrez]]
|[[Volaris]]| [[Cancún International Airport|Cancún]], [[Midway International Airport|Chicago–Midway]], [[O'Hare International Airport|Chicago–O'Hare]], [[Fresno Yosemite International Airport|Fresno]], [[Hermosillo International Airport|Hermosillo]], [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]], [[Mazatlán International Airport|Mazatlán]], [[Mérida International Airport|Mérida]], [[Mexicali International Airport|Mexicali]], [[San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport|Oakland]], [[Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport|Puerto Vallarta]], [[Sacramento International Airport|Sacramento]], [[San Jose International Airport|San Jose (CA)]], [[Los Cabos International Airport|San José del Cabo]], [[Tijuana International Airport|Tijuana]], [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez International Airport|Tuxtla Gutiérrez]]
}}
}}


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{| class="wikitable collapsible uncollapsed" style="border:1px #aaa solid; width:50em; margin:0.2em auto"
{| class="wikitable collapsible uncollapsed" style="border:1px #aaa solid; width:50em; margin:0.2em auto"
|-
|-
|{{Location map+ |Mexico |width=650 |float=center
|{{Location map+ |Mexico |width=650 |float=right
|caption=Domestic destinations from León/Bajío International Airport <br /> {{font color | red | Red}} = Year-round destination <br /> {{font color | blue | Blue}} = Future destination <br /> {{font color | green | Green}} = Seasonal destination
|caption=Domestic destinations from León/Bajío International Airport <br /> {{font color | red | Red}} = Year-round destination <br /> {{font color | blue | Blue}} = Future destination <br /> {{font color | green | Green}} = Seasonal destination
|places=
|places=
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=20.9935 |long=-101.4806 |position=top|label=<div style="position:relative; top:10px;"><small>'''{{nowrap|León/Del Bajío}}'''</small></div>|caption=|mark=Airplane_silhouette.svg|marksize=15 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=20.9935 |long=-101.4806 |position=top|label=<div style="position:relative; top:10px;"><small>'''{{nowrap|León/Del Bajío}}'''</small></div>|caption=|mark=Airplane_silhouette.svg|marksize=15 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=25.7778 |long=-100.1080|position=bottom|label='''[[Monterrey International Airport|{{nowrap|Monterrey}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=25.7778 |long=-100.1080|position=bottom|label='''[[Monterrey International Airport|{{nowrap|Monterrey}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |mark = blue pog.svg| Mexico|lat=19.756667 |long=-99.015278|position=top|label='''[[Felipe Ángeles International Airport|{{nowrap|Mexico City-AIFA}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |mark = red pog.svg| Mexico|lat=19.756667 |long=-99.015278|position=top|label='''[[Felipe Ángeles International Airport|{{nowrap|Mexico City-AIFA}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=19.4361 |long=-99.0719|position=bottom|label='''[[Mexico City International Airport|{{nowrap|Mexico City}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=19.4361 |long=-99.0719|position=bottom|label='''[[Mexico City International Airport|{{nowrap|Mexico City}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=32.5423 |long=-116.9717|position=bottom|label='''[[Tijuana International Airport|{{nowrap|Tijuana}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ | Mexico|lat=32.5423 |long=-116.9717|position=bottom|label='''[[Tijuana International Airport|{{nowrap|Tijuana}}]]'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
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{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=29.5312|long=-98.4683|position=top|label='''<small>[[San Antonio International Airport|San Antonio]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=29.5312|long=-98.4683|position=top|label='''<small>[[San Antonio International Airport|San Antonio]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=33.9416|long=-118.4085|position=right|label='''<small>[[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=33.9416|long=-118.4085|position=right|label='''<small>[[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=37.7126|long=-122.2197|position=right|label='''<small>[[Oakland International Airport|Oakland]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=37.7126|long=-122.2197|position=right|label='''<small>[[San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport|Oakland]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=36.4636|long=-119.4308|position=right|label='''<small>[[Fresno Yosemite International Airport|Fresno]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=36.4636|long=-119.4308|position=right|label='''<small>[[Fresno Yosemite International Airport|Fresno]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=41.4710|long=-87.4509|position=right|label='''<small>[[Midway International Airport|Chicago–Midway]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
{{Location map~ |United_States |lat=41.4710|long=-87.4509|position=right|label='''<small>[[Midway International Airport|Chicago–Midway]]</small>'''|label_size=90 |marksize=7 }}
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== Statistics ==
== Statistics ==
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 7.jpg|thumb|Passenger terminal entrance]]
[[File:Del Bajio International Airport.jpg|thumb|Airport view from Highway 45D]]
=== Passengers ===
=== Passengers ===
{{Airport-Statistics|iata=BJX|titre=Bajío airport passengers}}
{{Airport-Statistics|iata=BJX|titre=Bajío airport passengers}}


===Top destinations===
===Top destinations===
[[File:Sala última espera bjx.jpg|thumb|Departures concourse]]
[[File:Aeromarket bjx.jpg|thumb|Departures concourse]]
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size: 90%" width="align="
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size: 90%" width="align="
|+ '''Busiest domestic routes from Bajío International Airport (2023)'''<ref name="sase2023">{{cite web |url=https://www.gob.mx/afac/acciones-y-programas/estadisticas-280404|title=Estadística operacional por origen-destino / Traffic Statistics by City Pairs|language=Spanish |publisher=Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil | date=January 2024 |accessdate=January 30, 2024}}</ref>
|+ '''Busiest domestic routes from Bajío International Airport (2023)'''<ref name="sase2023">{{cite web |url=https://www.gob.mx/afac/acciones-y-programas/estadisticas-280404|title=Estadística operacional por origen-destino / Traffic Statistics by City Pairs|language=Spanish |publisher=Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil | date=January 2024 |accessdate=January 30, 2024}}</ref>
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| align="right" | 61,730
| align="right" | 61,730
| align="center" |{{decrease}} 1
| align="center" |{{decrease}} 1
| Viva Aerobus
| VivaAerobús
|-
|-
| 7
| 7
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| align="right" | 34,118
| align="right" | 34,118
| align="center" |{{steady}}
| align="center" |{{steady}}
| Volaris
| Viva Aerobus, Volaris
|-
|-
| 10
| 10
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| Volaris
| Volaris
|}
|}

[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 5.jpg|thumb|Duty-free shop]]
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 4.jpg|thumb|Passport control area]]
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size: 90%" width="align="
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size: 90%" width="align="
|+ '''Busiest international routes from Bajío International Airport (2023)'''<ref name="sase2023" />
|+ '''Busiest international routes from Bajío International Airport (2023)'''<ref name="sase2023" />
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==Accidents and incidents==
==Accidents and incidents==
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 6.jpg|thumb|Security area]]
*On 17 September 2021, a [[VivaAerobús]] [[Airbus A320-200]], registered XA-VAP, experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff from El Bajío. The aircraft landed safely after circling the airport and burning fuel for 25 minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aviation24.be/airlines/vivaaerobus/suffers-engine-failure-shortly-after-take-off-mexican-airport/|title = VivaAerobus suffers engine failure shortly after take-off Mexican airport|date = 19 September 2021}}</ref>
*On 17 September 2021, a [[VivaAerobús]] [[Airbus A320-200]], registered XA-VAP, experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff from El Bajío. The aircraft landed safely after circling the airport and burning fuel for 25 minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aviation24.be/airlines/vivaaerobus/suffers-engine-failure-shortly-after-take-off-mexican-airport/|title = VivaAerobus suffers engine failure shortly after take-off Mexican airport|date = 19 September 2021}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
[[File:Vuelo 137 aeromexico.jpg|thumb|Aeromexico Connect Embraer E190 at BJX]]
[[File:Aeropuerto de Guanajuato 2.jpg|thumb|United Airlines Boeing 737 at BJX]]

* [[List of the busiest airports in Mexico]]
* [[List of the busiest airports in Mexico]]
* [[List of airports in Mexico]]
* [[List of airports in Mexico]]
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==References==
==References==
[[File:Volaris (Y4) Vuelo 401.JPG|thumb|[[Volaris]] Airbus A321-271N at BJX]]
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}

==External links==
==External links==
[[File:Volaris A321-271N (N535VL) at BJX.jpg|thumb|[[Volaris]] Airbus A321-271N at BJX]]
[[File:Aeronaves TSM MD-82(SF) (XA-UTX) at BJX.jpg|thumb|Aeronaves TSM MD-82(SF) (XA-UTX) at BJX]]

* {{commons category-inline}}
* {{commons category-inline}}
* [https://aeropuertosgap.com.mx/en/guanajuato-3.html Official website]
* [https://aeropuertosgap.com.mx/en/guanajuato-3.html Official website]

Latest revision as of 20:23, 1 November 2024

León/Bajío International Airport

Aeropuerto Internacional del Bajío
Summary
Airport typePublic
Owner/OperatorGrupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico
ServesLeón, Guanajuato, Mexico
LocationSilao, Guanajuato, Mexico
Focus city forVolaris
Time zoneCST (UTC−06:00)
Elevation AMSL1,815 m / 5,955 ft
Coordinates20°59′36″N 101°28′51″W / 20.99333°N 101.48083°W / 20.99333; -101.48083
Websitewww.aeropuertosgap.com.mx/en/guanajuato-3.html
Map
BJX is located in Guanajuato
BJX
BJX
Location of the airport in Guanajuato
BJX is located in Mexico
BJX
BJX
BJX (Mexico)
Map
Runways
Direction Length Surface
m ft
13/31 3,499 11,480 Asphalt
Statistics (2023)
Total passengers3,195,946
Ranking in Mexico9th Steady
Source: Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico[1]

León/Bajio International Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional de León/Bajío); officially Aeropuerto Internacional de Guanajuato (Guanajuato International Airport) (IATA: BJX, ICAO: MMLO), is an international airport situated in Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico. It is the main international airport serving the Greater León Metropolitan Area and the State of Guanajuato, which is home to a population of 6 million residents, including the cities of Celaya, Guanajuato, Irapuato, Salamanca, and San Miguel de Allende. In addition to offering domestic flights within Mexico, it serves as a gateway for international travel, connecting Central Mexico to various destinations in the United States. It serves as a focus city for Volaris and supports flight training, cargo, logistics and general aviation activities.

Operated by Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), Bajío Airport derives its name from the cultural region "El Bajío" (the lowland), which is situated within the central Mexican plateau. It ranks as the ninth-busiest airport in Mexico in terms of passenger numbers and the seventh-busiest for international passenger traffic. In 2022, the airport served 2,603,200 passengers, a figure that increased to 3,220,800 passengers in 2023, marking a substantial 23.7% growth compared to the previous year and becoming the ninth airport in Mexico to surpass three million passengers in a calendar year.[1]

History

[edit]

The airport was inaugurated in 1991 by President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, replacing the former San Carlos International Airport located in León.[2] The growing industrial activity in the Bajío region and the massive migration of Mexicans to the United States in recent decades has been reflected in a substantial increase in international air transport demand. In 1999 the terminal went through an expansion project, improving equipment, and enhancing services for passengers. In February 2001, this airport received Air Force One during President George W. Bush's visit to Mexico. On March 23, 2012, the airport welcomed Pope Benedict XVI, who arrived on a direct flight from Rome, Italy, during his first and only visit to Mexico.

At the end of 2015, work began on the construction of a parallel taxiway along the entire length of the runway. In August 2016, the airport opened its first and only VIP lounge, while modernization and expansion work in the departure area and the entire terminal began, including the relocation of the customs and immigration checkpoint. Work was completed in mid-2018. Throughout its history, the airport has been served by various airlines, including Aeromar, Aviacsa, Calafia Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Delta Connection, Interjet, Mexicana, TAESA, and TAR Aerolíneas.

Facilities

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Passenger terminal map
Passenger terminal map
Passenger terminal entrance

The airport is located between the cities of León and Silao in Guanajuato, at an elevation of 1,815 metres (5,955 ft) above mean sea level. It has a single runway, designated as 13/31, with a length of 3,500 metres (11,500 ft) and an asphalt surface. The commercial aviation apron provides nine stands for receiving narrow-body aircraft. The general aviation apron offers stands for fixed-wing aircraft, in addition to heliports for private aviation. The airport also includes a cargo area called "Puerto Interior," which connects the airport with a freight rail and motor transportation hub.[3][4] It is equipped to handle up to 26 flights per hour.

The passenger terminal accommodates both arrivals and departures for domestic and international flights. The ground floor houses the arrivals area with customs and immigration facilities, the baggage claim area, and the departures section that includes a check-in area, a security checkpoint, and a departures concourse with gates 4-6 that provide direct access to the apron, enabling passengers to walk to their aircraft. From this departure concourse, access to the upper floor is available, which houses snack bars, souvenir shops, and gates 1 to 3, which are equipped with jet bridges for boarding.

Bajío Airport currently lacks direct public transportation services, requiring travelers to use other transport options. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking facilities. Car rental services are available on-site, with rental counters for Hertz, Budget, Veico, and City Car Rental located in the arrivals hall.[5]

For intercity bus travel, Primera Plus and Unebus offer services to various destinations including León, San Miguel de Allende, Silao, Guanajuato, Purísima del Rincón, and San Francisco del Rincón. From León, passengers can connect to various destinations across Mexico. Advanced bookings can be made through shuttle services listed on local tourist websites, such as Viva Aerobus, Primera Plus, and Unebus.

Passenger terminal entrance

Airlines and destinations

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Passenger terminal entrance
Airport view from Highway 45D
Departures concourse
Departures concourse
Duty-free shop
Passport control area
Security area
Aeromexico Connect Embraer E190 at BJX
United Airlines Boeing 737 at BJX
Volaris Airbus A321-271N at BJX
Volaris Airbus A321-271N at BJX
Aeronaves TSM MD-82(SF) (XA-UTX) at BJX

Passenger

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AirlinesDestinations
Aeroméxico Mexico City
Aeroméxico ConnectAtlanta, Mexico City
American AirlinesDallas/Fort Worth
American EagleDallas/Fort Worth
United Airlines Houston–Intercontinental
United ExpressHouston–Intercontinental
VivaCancún, Chicago–O'Hare, Ciudad Juárez, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston–Intercontinental, Mérida, Mexico City–AIFA,[6] Monterrey, San Antonio, Tijuana
Volaris Cancún, Chicago–Midway, Chicago–O'Hare, Fresno, Hermosillo, Los Angeles, Mazatlán, Mérida, Mexicali, Oakland, Puerto Vallarta, Sacramento, San Jose (CA), San José del Cabo, Tijuana, Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Destination maps

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Domestic destinations from León/Bajío International Airport
Red = Year-round destination
Blue = Future destination
Green = Seasonal destination
International destinations from Bajío International Airport
Red = Year-round destination
Blue = Future destination
Green = Seasonal/charter destination
Italic = Suspended passenger destination

Statistics

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Passengers

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Bajío airport passengers. See Wikidata query.

Top destinations

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Busiest domestic routes from Bajío International Airport (2023)[7]
Rank City Passengers Ranking Airline
1  Baja California, Tijuana 380,243 Steady Viva Aerobus, Volaris
2  Quintana Roo, Cancún 211,718 Increase 1 Viva Aerobus, Volaris
2  Mexico City, Mexico City 176,247 Decrease 1 Aeroméxico, Aeroméxico Connect
4  Nuevo León, Monterrey 146,107 Steady Viva Aerobus
5  Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta 61,999 Increase 1 Volaris
6  Chihuahua, Ciudad Juárez 61,730 Decrease 1 Viva Aerobus
7  Baja California Sur, San José del Cabo 35,949 Increase 1 Volaris
8  Baja California, Mexicali 34,989 Decrease 1 Volaris
9  Yucatán, Mérida 34,118 Steady Viva Aerobus, Volaris
10  Sonora, Hermosillo 8,288 New entry Volaris
Busiest international routes from Bajío International Airport (2023)[7]
Rank City Passengers Ranking Airline
1  United States, Dallas/Fort Worth 105,812 Steady American Airlines
2  United States, Houston-Intercontinental 94,071 Steady United Airlines, Viva Aerobus
3  United States, Chicago (O'Hare and Midway)[a] 65,973 Steady United Express, Viva Aerobus, Volaris
4  United States, Oakland 37,195 Steady Volaris
5  United States, Los Angeles 32,030 Steady Volaris
6  United States, Sacramento 16,023 Steady Volaris
7  United States, Fresno 15,492 Increase 2 Volaris
8  United States, San Jose 13,308 Decrease 1 Volaris
9  United States, San Antonio 12,200 Decrease 1 Viva Aerobus
Notes
  1. ^ The official statistics combine both O'Hare and Midway airports.

Accidents and incidents

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  • On 17 September 2021, a VivaAerobús Airbus A320-200, registered XA-VAP, experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff from El Bajío. The aircraft landed safely after circling the airport and burning fuel for 25 minutes.[8]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "GAP Traffic Report 2023" (PDF). Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico. January 2024. Retrieved January 27, 2024.
  2. ^ "Los aeropuertos de León".
  3. ^ "SKYPLUS INDUSTRIAL AND LOGISTICS PARK".
  4. ^ "Puerto Interior".
  5. ^ Veico Car Rental
  6. ^ "Viva Aerobús announces three new routes from AIFA". EnElAire (in Spanish). June 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
  7. ^ a b "Estadística operacional por origen-destino / Traffic Statistics by City Pairs" (in Spanish). Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil. January 2024. Retrieved January 30, 2024.
  8. ^ "VivaAerobus suffers engine failure shortly after take-off Mexican airport". September 19, 2021.
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