A complete redesign is currently underway at Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport; the sweeping project affects all of GDL’s commercial space, a new runway and a Net Zero terminal building. The renovation will open in phases over the next few years.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico is investing more than $504 million into the redevelopment by 2026. This overhaul will double airport capacity; GDL handled almost 15 million passengers in 2019. When the renovation is complete, capacity will increase to 30 million passengers and allow an increase of 60 percent more flights.

The commercial space at Mexico’s third-largest airport will be reimagined and draw upon Mexico’s rich history, culture, crafts and unique landscapes. The space will feature a large rotunda with suspended pendant lights made of peltra, a Mexican porcelain enamel designed by a Puebla-based studio. A garden terrace on the flat roof canopy over the extended baggage area will be a welcoming spot with an agave-inspired shade pod in a hint to the state’s status as the birthplace of tequila. The redesign will add contemporary seating, dining and retail outlets.

Miguel Hidalgo International Airport is located 24 miles from Guadalajara’s city center, and offers non-stop daily flights from major markets across the United States and Canada. Along with being the birthplace of tequila, Guadalajara is known for its history, tradition and cuisine, and also birthed charrería and mariachi. Dubbed Mexico’s Silicon Valley, Expo Guadalajara is Latin America’s largest convention center and the area as a whole is attractive to business travelers.

Do you travel to Guadalajara frequently? What improvements are you looking forward to seeing at GDL? Will you consider travel to Guadalajara now that the airport will be improved? Tell us about it. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.