Laredo International Airport: A Strategic Hub for U.S.–Mexico Trade

The Laredo International Airport has consolidated its role as a strategic node within the U.S.–Mexico logistics chain, particularly for air cargo operations linked to just-in-time supply models, high-value goods, and urgent shipments that require maximum security and speed.

According to Gilberto Sánchez, Airport Director, the facility is an essential component of the broader Port Laredo logistics ecosystem, the largest inland port for trade between the two countries.

“The airport plays a very important role as a logistics hub for emergency cargo, high-value goods, and shipments that are needed urgently. We are strategically positioned for that type of operation,” Sánchez said.

Air Cargo Infrastructure Capable of Handling Any Aircraft

One of the airport’s main competitive advantages is its cargo infrastructure. In recent years, the facility has invested nearly $20 million to expand its cargo installations, reaching 579,000 square feet of warehousing capacity.

In addition, the airport operates one of the longest runways in South Texas, measuring approximately 8,700 feet, allowing aircraft of any size to land and take off fully loaded.

“Any aircraft can land here and depart fully loaded, which gives us a very important operational advantage,” Sánchez noted.

Over the past two decades, the airport has invested more than $200 million in runway modernization and maintenance, with a strong focus on operational safety, upgraded taxiways and connectors, and compliance with aviation regulatory standards.

24/7 Dual Customs: A Unique Logistics Advantage

Another key differentiator is the airport’s dual customs operation, with Mexican and U.S. authorities on site, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“You don’t need to notify us a day in advance. With just two hours and the manifest, the cargo can arrive, clear customs, and depart immediately. That’s a very significant advantage compared to other airports,” Sánchez explained.

This capability is especially critical for industries operating under urgent timelines, such as the automotive sector, where production line stoppages, recalls, or last-minute adjustments require immediate logistics solutions.

Strategic Location and Multimodal Connectivity

Laredo’s geographic location further strengthens the airport’s value proposition. Positioned along the I-35 corridor, which directly connects to central and northern U.S. markets, the airport integrates seamlessly with the region’s international bridges, highway network, and rail infrastructure.

“We don’t move the same volume as the land bridges, because air cargo is more expensive. But when the value of the goods is high or the urgency is critical, that’s where we come in,” Sánchez emphasized.

Automotive and Electronics Lead Air Cargo Activity

Currently, 90% to 95% of air cargo handled at Laredo International Airport corresponds to the automotive and electronics sectors, including high-value components such as semiconductors and chips.

“We are very strong in automotive and electronics, but we are fully prepared to handle any type of air cargo,” Sánchez said.

The airport’s infrastructure and dual customs operations also enable handling of perishables, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce, a segment where companies such as Amazon and Mercado Libre already operate, albeit at smaller volumes.

Following the pandemic, the airport experienced record demand for both cargo and passenger traffic in 2023 and 2024. While 2025 has shown a normalization trend, current volumes remain above pre-COVID levels.

“The recovery was impressive—something we had never seen before. Today there’s a downward trend, but it’s still stronger than before the pandemic. We are well positioned, and operators have noticed,” Sánchez stated.

New Investments and a Long-Term Vision

In parallel with cargo growth, the airport is advancing an ambitious passenger terminal modernization project, with an estimated investment of $20 to $30 million. The project includes a full renovation of terminal facilities, security areas, restaurants, and electrical systems, with an execution timeline of approximately 18 months.

“We continue investing in technology, safety, and competitiveness. We don’t rest on the title of being the number one inland port; we work every day to maintain and improve that status,” Sánchez emphasized.

Looking ahead, Laredo International Airport aims to diversify its cargo portfolio, strengthen sectors such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce, and continue serving as a key enabler of nearshoring across northern Mexico and South Texas.

“We have the infrastructure, the capacity, and the talent to lead in other markets as well. We are open to working with companies of any size. Laredo is open for business,” Sánchez concluded.