Overview and Key Players
The Mexican aviation market has shown resilience, with both national and international airlines contributing to a 2.6% increase in total passengers from January to August 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. This growth is noteworthy as it surpasses the 0.8% increase observed in the corresponding period of 2024.
National and International Airlines Performance
- National Airlines: Led by Viva, national airlines transported 42.156 million passengers in domestic flights, marking a 3.6% increase. Aeroméxico, leading international flights, saw a 5.6% rise, carrying 11.966 million passengers.
- International Airlines: American Airlines, heading international lines, transported 28.249 million passengers, reflecting a 0.1% growth.
Challenges and Current Scenario
The second half of the year presents challenges due to political and economic uncertainties, along with the absence of a federal strategy for national and international tourism promotion. This was evident in August, when all companies carried 10.2 million passengers, a 1.3% increase, despite an extended school holiday period.
Low-Cost Business Expansion
Volaris led in total passengers served, with 18.637 million—a 5.8% increase—followed closely by Viva, which attended 18.619 million passengers with a 9.4% rise. Grupo Aeroméxico, in third place, experienced a 3.7% decrease, attending 16.301 million customers.
Both Volaris and Viva operate under the low-cost model, capturing 45% of the market—two percentage points more than in 2024. The growth prospects for this segment remain positive.
Mexico’s Suitability for Low-Cost Airlines
Volaris believes Mexico is ideal for low-cost airlines due to a high potential of bus passengers transitioning to air travel, driven by geography, the strength of the tourism segment for friends and family visits, and the lack of an extensive passenger train system.
Both airlines have intensified marketing efforts, enhanced loyalty programs, and launched attractive digital media offers to foster customer relationships.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who are the key players in Mexico’s aviation market? A: National airlines like Viva and Aeroméxico, along with international carriers such as American Airlines, are significant players.
- Q: What challenges does the Mexican aviation market face? A: Political and economic uncertainties, along with the absence of a federal tourism promotion strategy, pose challenges.
- Q: How have low-cost airlines performed in Mexico? A: Volaris and Viva have shown strong growth, capturing 45% of the market.
- Q: What makes Mexico suitable for low-cost airlines? A: High potential of bus passengers transitioning to air travel, driven by geography and the strength of tourism for friends and family visits.
