On an international flight (to Mexico) with a layover in Mexico DF, do I have to clear Mexican customs and redo security in DF before taking the connection like we do in Canada and the US ?
Is there an exit security check before leaving the airport and entering the city ?
I'm trying to find out how much time I need between/before flights. I'm flying from Canada in case it's relevant.
Yes. When you land in DF, you will be required to clear immigration and customs with all of your luggage, then re-check any checked bags, and re-clear security. I have done this before, and my girlfriend just did it last week (LHR -> MEX -> GDL).
When things are running smoothly, it shouldn't take more than an hour to do all of that. But if you have checked luggage, and there is a delay in unloading the luggage, for instance, or it's a particularly busy time of day, it make take longer.
It's always better to plan on the side of too much time than too little, IMO. I would want at least 2 hours between flights, and would feel more comfortable with 3. More than 4 and you'll just be killing time (although I have learned not to mind that, if I carry a good book).
Also keep in mind that MEX is a large airport, and depending on where your arrival and departure gates are located, you may spend as much as 20-30 minutes just walking between gates.
