If you’ve been hearing rumors about an international airport in Ensenada since the ‘90s—you’re not alone. It’s been the Baja version of “I’ll believe it when I see it.” But this time, it might not be just talk.
From Rumors to Blueprints
Plans for a new airport date back to the mid-1990s, and in 2007 it was even listed in Mexico’s National Infrastructure Plan. Multiple studies were commissioned for a site in Ojos Negros, about 80 km inland. At the end, only one dirt runway was built, which is barely used as an alternative to the Cipres airport, during the Baja 1000 off-road race.
Fast forward to 2024, and the federal Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes (SICT), which oversees infrastructure and transportation, allocated over 16 million pesos for studies on hydrology, soil conditions, and environmental impact in Ensenada. That’s a lot more than just lip service.
Then, in July 2025, Ensenada’s mayor Claudia Agatón confirmed that the project is officially back on the radar. According to her statement and sources from federal agencies, the plan is for a new international airport to be located in El Tigre, a zone about 30 km north of downtown Ensenada.
The ASA Plan
The airport would fall under the management of Aeropuertos y Servicios Auxiliares (ASA), the federal agency in charge of Mexico’s airport network. ASA has already released blueprints that include:
- A 2,800-meter runway
- An 8,000 m² terminal
- A new control tower
- Commercial zones, parking, and access roads
The total investment? 5.5 billion pesos—but important note: that budget is not just for Ensenada. It’s part of a broader ASA strategy that includes multiple airport projects across Mexico. So while Ensenada is in the mix, it’s sharing the pot.
So… Is This Finally Happening?
We know what you’re thinking: Didn’t they say the same thing in 2007? And in 2016? Yep. Baja residents (and frequent visitors) have seen this movie before. But this time we’ve got:
- Confirmed site and design (El Tigre)
- Federal and municipal coordination
- Concrete funding allocations
- A proposed timeline: earthworks in 2026, terminal structure in 2027, and operations by 2029.
Bottom Line
We’re cautiously optimistic. With backing from SICT, project management by ASA, and a mayor who’s actively promoting it, this version of the Ensenada airport feels more grounded than ever.
But let’s be honest—we’ll believe it when we see the bulldozers. Until then, Gringo Gazette North will keep a close eye on progress. And if it does happen, maybe you can book your next flight into Ensenada instead of dealing with Tijuana or San Diego.
