Welcome, fellow travelers and curious minds, to a wild and wonderful adventure through the bustling world of Mexico City International Airport. This place is like a beehive of activity, buzzing with people from all corners of the globe. But guess what? There are some seriously quirky and fascinating facts you probably didn’t know about this aviation hub. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let’s take off on this fun fact-finding mission.
1. Two for the Price of One:
Mexico City International Airport isn’t just one airport; it’s actually two. Benito Juarez International Airport and Licenciado Adolfo López Mateos International Airport. It’s like getting a buy-one-get-one-free deal without even trying.
2. High Above Sea Level:
This airport is a high flier, and we’re not talking about planes. It’s located at a whopping 7,316 feet (2,230 meters) above sea level. If it were any higher, we’d need oxygen masks just to buy a ticket.
3. It’s Older Than Your Grandpa:
This airport has been around for ages, serving travelers since 1928. That’s right, it’s been helping people catch flights and miss flights for nearly a century.
4. The World’s Busiest for a Reason:
Mexico City International Airport is the busiest airport in Latin America, and it’s one of the top 10 busiest airports worldwide. If there’s one thing they’ve mastered, it’s organized chaos.
5. Say Hello to the Xoloitzcuintli:
The airport has a bit of an unusual mascot – the Xoloitzcuintli, which is also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog. It’s a unique choice for a mascot, but hey, who doesn’t love a good doggo, even if it’s a bit bald?
6. Terminal 2 – The Green One:
Terminal 2 at the airport is known as the ‘green’ terminal, not because it’s new or inexperienced, but because it’s all about sustainability and eco-friendliness. They’re so eco-conscious that even the baggage carts are probably solar-powered.
7. Even the Presidents Wait:
In the presidential lounge, you might just bump into the Mexican president or other VIPs waiting for their flights. If they can wait, so can we, right?
8. Art in Every Nook and Cranny:
This airport is like an art gallery with wings. There’s artwork everywhere, from murals and sculptures to temporary exhibitions. You could be waiting for your delayed flight and stumble upon the next Picasso.
9. The Volcano Connection:
The airport is right smack next to the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes. Don’t worry, they’re not known to erupt when you’re about to board, but the view is spectacular.
10. Don’t Bring a Spoon:
One super odd rule – you can’t bring a metal spoon onboard. But hey, who needs metal spoons when you’ve got plastic ones? No, really, who needs them?
So, there you have it, folks. Mexico City International Airport isn’t just a place to catch a plane; it’s a fascinating world of its own. From ancient history to high altitudes, art, and maybe a dog or two, there’s something quirky and intriguing for everyone. Next time you find yourself there, take a moment to appreciate these fun facts and maybe spot a presidential lounge lizard or two. Safe travels, and remember, don’t bring a spoon.