Teachers’ Union Protest Disrupts Operations at Mexico City Airport

On Friday afternoon, a protest organized by a notable teachers' union in Mexico shuttered operations at the capital's primary international airport for about 20 minutes, causing significant delays for travelers. The demonstrators, advocating for improved wages, clashed briefly with security forces who intervened to restore order within the airport terminals. This chaotic scene unfolded around 2 p.m. local time, ultimately causing travel turmoil for thousands as the protest obstructed access and inflamed traffic congestion in the crowded area around the airport.

While the protest was short-lived, it still resulted in widespread repercussions, with some international flights being significantly delayed or canceled altogether. Airlines such as Aeroméxico responded by allowing affected passengers to adjust their bookings at no extra cost or with minimal fees. The unrest reflects mounting pressure on President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration from various social movements and labor groups, who are frustrated by economic stagnation and an expansive budget deficit limiting wage increases.

Specific demands from the National Educational Workers Coordination (C.N.T.E.)—the union behind the action—include a doubling of teacher salaries and revisions to what they perceive as detrimental pension and education legislation. Union leader Eva Hinojosa Tera expressed dissatisfaction in a radio interview, citing a lack of meaningful engagement from the government regarding their demands. The C.N.T.E., a splinter faction of the country's largest teachers' union, has historically been vocal in strikes and demonstrations aimed at pushing for better conditions for educators across the nation.