A recent protest by a Mexican teachers’ union resulted in significant disruptions at the main international airport, highlighting ongoing tensions over wage demands in a struggling economy.
Teachers’ Union Protest Disrupts Travel at Mexico City Airport

Teachers’ Union Protest Disrupts Travel at Mexico City Airport
Demonstration for Higher Wages Causes Brief Flight Delays and Chaos
The protest erupted around 2 p.m. local time at Mexico City’s international airport, forcing security forces to intervene as hundreds of members from the National Educational Workers Coordination (C.N.T.E.) blocked terminal access. Chaos reigned as passenger flights were temporarily halted, ultimately causing delays and cancellations for many travelers. The swift action of police was aimed at restoring order, with officers in riot gear seen within the airport and assisting stranded travelers.
While the total disruption lasted approximately 20 minutes, its effects were felt throughout the day as several international flights faced cancellations or lengthy delays. In response to the upheaval, airlines like Aeroméxico provided options for clients to reschedule flights without incurring fees.
This protest signals escalating frustrations directed at President Claudia Sheinbaum, whose administration is grappling with a precarious economic landscape and a significant budget deficit, limiting her capability to meet the wage demands of public employees. Union leader Eva Hinojosa Tera voiced the discontent, stating that their most basic requests for respect and attention have largely been ignored by the government.
The C.N.T.E., representing approximately 100,000 members, is a faction from Mexico’s largest teachers’ union, advocating for more than mere wage adjustments—they are calling for reforms to educational policies and pension plans that they believe are detrimental. The demonstration reflects a broader movement of social unrest in response to economic hardships, with unions rallying for a more equitable share of resources in the education sector.
While the total disruption lasted approximately 20 minutes, its effects were felt throughout the day as several international flights faced cancellations or lengthy delays. In response to the upheaval, airlines like Aeroméxico provided options for clients to reschedule flights without incurring fees.
This protest signals escalating frustrations directed at President Claudia Sheinbaum, whose administration is grappling with a precarious economic landscape and a significant budget deficit, limiting her capability to meet the wage demands of public employees. Union leader Eva Hinojosa Tera voiced the discontent, stating that their most basic requests for respect and attention have largely been ignored by the government.
The C.N.T.E., representing approximately 100,000 members, is a faction from Mexico’s largest teachers’ union, advocating for more than mere wage adjustments—they are calling for reforms to educational policies and pension plans that they believe are detrimental. The demonstration reflects a broader movement of social unrest in response to economic hardships, with unions rallying for a more equitable share of resources in the education sector.