Introduction to Aviation Policy in Mexico
Recent discussions have revolved around the state’s aviation policy in Mexico. Last week, Secretary of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SITC), Jesús Antonio Esteva, announced that a state aviation policy would be established by 2026. Simultaneously, Miguel Enrique Vallín Osuna, Director of the Federal Aviation Agency (AFAC), presented a list of topics to be included in this policy or the one being developed by AFAC.
The Six Strategic Ejes for Mexico’s Aviation Policy
The aviation policy cannot be summarized by the actions the Mexican government must take to remain a member of the Civil Aviation Organization (OACI). The six strategic axes outlined in the “Challenges of the New Aeronautical Policy” speech by AFAC’s director during ASA’s anniversary celebration represent requirements for a country like Mexico to meet in order to develop an air transport industry.
Long-term Vision and Objectives
A crucial aspect of any industrial policy, including aviation, is having a long-term vision. Mexico should decide whether to leverage its comparative advantages—geographical location, airport network, specialized workforce, bilateral aviation agreements, and trade treaties—to become a connectivity hub both domestically and internationally. This means utilizing Mexican airports as distribution centers linking North America to South America, Europe to Asia, and fostering partnerships with private airlines, airports, guilds, unions, aviation academies, travel agencies, and users to achieve a common goal: growth, competitiveness, attracting tourists, transporting goods to other countries, developing development poles, and becoming one of the top five in the world for aerospace industry and foreign currency capture.
Clear Goals, Indicators, and Leveraging Advantages
Without clear objectives, measurable indicators, and the strategic use of advantages, Mexico will not progress. A clear destination is essential for setting speed and altitude; without it, there’s no purpose or direction. This forms the foundation of a long-term policy.
Bilateral Agreements and State-owned Entities’ Roles
The remaining components of the policy should focus on the path to achieve these objectives. This includes Mexico’s bilateral agreements, facilitating private airline operations, and defining the roles of state-owned airlines and airports.
Unified Command for Civil Aviation
Most importantly, Mexico’s civil aviation must fall under a single command, managed by the relevant authorities—in this case, SICT, the civil authority responsible for overseeing state airports and airlines. Although military branches like the Navy and Army may have responsibilities for operating these assets, overall leadership must reside with the civil authority. Otherwise, there can be no effective state aviation policy.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of a long-term vision for Mexico’s aviation policy? A clear, long-term vision is essential to harness Mexico’s comparative advantages in geographical location, airport network, workforce specialization, bilateral agreements, and trade treaties to establish a robust air transport industry.
- What are the six strategic axes for Mexico’s aviation policy? The six strategic axes are: (1) Strengthening air transport safety and security, (2) Enhancing air traffic management, (3) Promoting sustainable development, (4) Improving airport infrastructure and services, (5) Fostering international cooperation, and (6) Developing human resources in the aviation sector.
- Why is unified command crucial for Mexico’s civil aviation? Unified command under a civil authority ensures that state airports and airlines are strategically directed towards common goals, fostering growth, competitiveness, and international connectivity.
