The Ojos Negros Airport: A Strategic Infrastructure Investment for Ensenada

As Ensenada looks to enhance its economic landscape, the Ensenada Economic Development Council (Codeen) has made a compelling case for prioritizing the completion of the Ojos Negros Airport and the connecting highway to Ensenada. Héctor Contreras Luengas, president of Codeen, argues that these infrastructure projects should be included in both state and national agendas to unlock the region's full potential.

Currently, Ensenada lacks an international airport; the only existing one is a military facility catering to small aircraft located in the south of the city. The development of the Ojos Negros Airport to the north is seen as a critical step towards improving the city's industrial and tourist profile. Contreras Luengas emphasizes that “the Ojos Negros airport is by far, a piece of infrastructure with greater development potential than other public investments,” signaling a shift in how Ensenada can leverage its geographic and economic strengths.

Addressing Connectivity and Capacity

The proposed airport, alongside the new highway, aims to alleviate congestion on the current routes connecting Ensenada with Tijuana and, by extension, the northern border. These existing routes are becoming increasingly saturated, which not only hampers trade but also contributes to urban strain in Tijuana. By enhancing the connectivity to the north, Ensenada could reduce urban saturation and improve overall security and road maintenance issues exacerbated by heavy cargo transportation.

The consulting report “Nearshoring in Ensenada,” prepared by specialist Manuel J. Molano of QP Market Information, underscores the importance of these developments. It highlights that the Ojos Negros airport could serve as a catalyst for economic growth by providing efficient transportation routes for both goods and tourists. This dual focus on industrial and tourism sectors could significantly boost local employment and attract foreign investment.

Enhancing Port Connectivity and Maritime Transport

In conjunction with these initiatives, there is a pressing need to improve Ensenada’s maritime transport capabilities. The region's port infrastructure is already well-positioned to handle high-sea traffic, with 15 ports across the country, including eight on the Pacific coast. However, the potential for cabotage—a practice that has been on the table for over two decades—remains untapped. Cabotage would allow for more efficient transport of goods within Mexico, further strengthening Ensenada's economic position.

Contreras Luengas notes that maritime transport has become increasingly vital in international trade, accounting for approximately 90% of goods moved globally. With about 85% of Mexico's exports transported by sea, enhancing the port's capabilities could position Ensenada as a key player in the country's trade ecosystem.

A Call for Action

The Ensenada Economic Development Council's advocacy for the Ojos Negros Airport and the connecting highway is not just about transportation; it’s about vision. By investing in infrastructure that supports both air and land transport, Ensenada can prioritize its economic potential and address the logistical challenges that have long hindered its growth.

As discussions progress at both state and national levels, it is clear that the future of Ensenada hinges on its ability to capitalize on these strategic investments. The Ojos Negros Airport is more than just an infrastructure project; it represents a pathway to revitalization, greater connectivity, and economic resilience for Ensenada and its surrounding regions.