Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Mexico is preparing to host the 2026 World Cup, and a major symposium in Puerto Vallarta is helping ensure the country’s airports are ready for a global audience. Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) recently hosted its 14th Civil Aviation Security Symposium, gathering aviation experts to discuss and strengthen safety measures ahead of the international event.
The symposium, a leading forum for airport security in Mexico and Latin America, brought together authorities from Mexico’s Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC), representatives from various airports, security companies, international organizations, and, for the first time, members of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA). This collaboration underscores the importance of preparing for the World Cup, with its theme, “Major Events.”
Throughout the event, experts participated in panel discussions and presentations focused on the unique security challenges posed by large-scale international events. A key topic was how to ensure the safety of passengers arriving in Mexico for the tournament.
Martín Zazueta, Director of Airports and Regulated Business at GAP, emphasized the symposium’s importance. “Major events like the 2026 World Cup will always be a showcase for Mexico’s ability to operate safe, modern, and efficient airports to the world,” he said. He proudly noted GAP’s role in creating a space for dialogue to “align processes, share experiences, and strengthen strategies for handling large-scale events.”
Highlights of the program included a panel discussion moderated by Zazueta titled “Preparing Host Airports for the World Cup” and a presentation on “Smart Crowd Management at Airports: The Use of Video and Advanced Analytics” by Mirelle Solcá, a representative of the security technology company Verkada.
Zazueta also noted the anticipated number of visitors, stating that while the exact figures will depend on which teams play in each city, it’s certain that Mexico’s deep love for soccer will bring a significant number of visitors to the host cities of Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City. He also emphasized Puerto Vallarta’s role as both a beach destination and a convenient stop for travelers attending matches in the host cities.
He provided a preview of Puerto Vallarta International Airport’s new Terminal 2, which he described as a modern facility featuring cutting-edge technology and an architectural design set to make it “one of the most beautiful and iconic in the entire country.” This upgrade is part of a broader effort to ensure that Mexico’s air infrastructure meets the highest international standards for safety and efficiency.
Through this proactive symposium, GAP is not only preparing Mexico for the World Cup but also reinforcing the nation’s reputation for safe, efficient, and welcoming airports.
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