Cancún International Airport Expands Terminal 1 Ahead of 2026 Travel Surge

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Major changes are underway at Cancún International Airport (CUN), with airport operator ASUR moving forward on a long-planned expansion that will directly affect travelers beginning in 2026. The most significant development is the reopening and full reconstruction of Terminal 1, alongside continued expansion at Terminal 4, as the airport prepares for sustained growth in international passenger traffic.

Terminal 1 set to reopen in 2026

Terminal 1, which has remained largely inactive for years after previously serving private and limited operations, is now undergoing a full remodel and expansion. According to ASUR disclosures to investors, construction is in its advanced stages, with completion and reopening targeted for the end of the second quarter of 2026.

Once operational, Terminal 1 will add much-needed capacity to an airport that has seen record passenger volumes. While ASUR has not yet detailed which airlines or routes will be assigned to the terminal, its return is expected to redistribute traffic currently concentrated in Terminals 2, 3, and 4.

Terminal 4 expansion continues

At the same time, the second phase of Terminal 4’s expansion is nearing completion. Portions of the project are described as “practically complete” and include additional boarding gates and a new connecting taxiway. These upgrades are intended to relieve congestion while Terminal 1 construction is finalized.

Together, the projects form part of a broader infrastructure plan that also includes expanded airport roadways to improve ground access and vehicle flow.

Why it matters for travelers

Passenger demand at Cancún International Airport has continued to climb, with publicly cited figures showing traffic up 16% through September 2025. The expansion is also timed ahead of the FIFA World Cup in June–July 2026, which is expected to drive a significant increase in international arrivals to Mexico, even though Cancún itself is not a host city.

For travelers, the changes mean:

• Terminal assignments may shift, even within the same airline, as operations are redistributed.
• Extra time should be built into airport plans during the transition period due to construction-related traffic and temporary routing changes.
• Improved passenger flow once projects are complete, with reduced bottlenecks at check-in, security, immigration, and baggage claim.

Looking ahead

ASUR has indicated that additional long-term development at Terminal 4 may continue beyond 2026, with some elements extending toward 2028. In the shorter term, however, the reopening of Terminal 1 marks the most visible change travelers will notice.

For passengers flying into or out of Cancún in 2026, the key takeaway is simple: expect terminal changes, allow extra time, and watch for updated airport signage as Cancún International Airport enters its next phase of expansion.