When you buy a plane ticket, you’re not just paying for the flight—you’re also paying to use the airport. Did you know that? This is what’s known as the TUA, but if you’ve never heard of this charge before, keep reading.

The TUA often goes unnoticed by travelers, but it’s important to understand what it is and why it’s charged. Especially if you’re planning a trip soon and want to know all the expenses involved.

If that’s the case, read on to learn what the TUA is and other essential details about it.

TUA: The Airport Fee Everyone Pays, But Few Understand

What is the TUA?

The initials stand for “Airport Use Fee”, which is a charge that every passenger must pay when purchasing a plane ticket.

In most cases, the TUA is included in the total ticket price, but sometimes it is charged separately—often for international flights. This depends on the airline.

Is Paying the TUA Mandatory?

Yes, it applies to both domestic and international flights, as well as for one-way and round-trip tickets.

That’s why you shouldn’t overlook airline promotions—especially during Hot Travel, when cheap ticket deals are abundant, helping you cut additional costs.

How is the Airport Use Fee Calculated?

Determining how the TUA is calculated isn’t simple. The calculation varies depending on each airport’s policies and the type of flight you’re taking (domestic or international).

Each airport sets its own rate, considering factors such as:

• Infrastructure

• Available services

• The number of passengers it receives

One thing is certain: TUA fees for international flights are higher than for domestic flights. However, the exact cost is added to the total ticket price and detailed at the time of purchase.

As mentioned earlier, the TUA may not be included in some cases and could be charged separately, making the fee more transparent. This is the case with Viva Aerobus, which allows you to pay the TUA up to 24 hours before your flight.

Why Must the TUA Be Paid at Airports?

The TUA must be paid because it funds airport maintenance and operations. This charge helps cover essential services that ensure a smooth travel experience, including:

• Infrastructure. Part of the income goes toward modernizing and expanding airports. This allows for new terminals, larger boarding areas, and improved airport connections.

• Maintenance. It also finances cleaning and upkeep, ensuring that all areas remain in optimal condition for travelers.

• Security. The fee funds airport security systems, such as baggage scanners, access controls, and passenger monitoring—which are crucial for ensuring flight safety.

• Airport Services. Thanks to the TUA, airports can provide basic amenities such as restrooms, signage, waiting areas, and passenger assistance.

In short, without the TUA, airports wouldn’t be able to function efficiently or guarantee a safe experience for passengers.

What is the Cost of the TUA at Airports?

At Mexico City International Airport (AICM), you can check the rates on their website. For example, in February, the domestic TUA is 610.548 MXN, and the international TUA is 1,159.219 MXN, excluding VAT.

Note: This is what the airport charges per flight to airlines, not what you pay directly. The TUA amount you pay will be reflected in your ticket price.

Airlines like Viva Aerobus clearly display the TUA fee alongside the ticket price. For example, for flights from Ciudad Juárez, you might find tickets (on promotion) for 26 MXN + 741.94 MXN in TUA, including VAT.

However, these amounts are updated based on the departure airport, flight type, and exchange rate. The best approach is to check the exact TUA cost when purchasing your ticket.

Remember that to save while traveling you must plan well. So find out everything you need to make the most of your trip.

The farther you travel, the higher the TUA amount.

Who is Exempt from Paying the TUA?

Although the TUA is a mandatory fee for most flights, there are some exceptions:

• Children under two years old. If a child travels on an adult’s lap and does not occupy a seat, the TUA does not apply.

• People with disabilities. Depending on the airline or airport, there may be discounts or exemptions for passengers with specific disabilities.

• Connecting or return flights. If you pay the TUA and have a layover at a Mexican airport, you may not have to pay it again.

This last point depends on whether the airport and airline consider the connection as part of the same itinerary. The same applies to return flights.

To confirm if you qualify for an exemption, check with your airline before purchasing your ticket.

Final Recommendations

Paying the TUA is essential when flying, so to avoid issues, we suggest:

• Checking if the TUA is included in the ticket price before purchasing.

• Reviewing your airline’s policies regarding TUA payments.

• Visiting the airline’s customer service counter before your flight if you have questions, to avoid delays.

Additionally, if you’re planning to visit the U.S., we recommend checking the current visa costs, since most Mexicans need to apply for one.

The same applies if you want to visit countries such as Canada, since it is a requirement for Mexican citizens. Although in this case, you may not need a Canadian visa, but an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

All these details should be investigated when preparing your trip to avoid mishaps.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens If I Don’t Pay the TUA?

If you don’t pay the TUA, you won’t be able to board your flight, as it is a mandatory charge. Usually, the airline includes it in the ticket price, but if the payment is missing, you must resolve it before traveling to avoid issues.

When and Where Do I Have to Pay the TUA?

In most cases, the TUA is automatically included when you buy your plane ticket, but there are exceptions. For example, Viva Aerobus allows you to pay it separately after purchasing your ticket—but you must do so before your departure.

How Much is the TUA for Flights?

Airports set and update their fees periodically. To find the exact TUA cost, check with your airline or visit the official website of your departure airport.