Global Overview
In 2025, the air transport sector confirmed that the exit from the post-pandemic crisis did not mean a return to stability, neither in Mexico nor globally. Instead, the year was marked by a combination of growing demand, operational tensions, regulatory pressures, and a geopolitical environment that continues to shape aviation as a strategic industry.
On a global scale, passenger demand finally consolidated above 2019 levels, particularly in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasized throughout the year that aviation became a key driver of connectivity and international trade, but also highlighted that sector profitability remains fragile. Factors such as rising fuel costs, currency volatility, the Russian sky freeze, and disruptions in supply chains affecting manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus limit many airlines’ ability to grow in line with demand.
Moreover, there has been a tightening of regulations concerning safety, sustainability, and quality control, driven by both national authorities and multilateral organizations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The push for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), emission reductions, and CORSIA compliance progressed faster in rhetoric than reality, revealing the gap between climate commitments and real availability of inputs, infrastructure, and funding.
Mexico’s Unique Challenges
In Mexico, 2025 was a year of contrasts. Domestic and international air traffic continued to grow, fueled by tourism, nearshoring, and expectations of deeper integration with the United States. Mexican airlines pursued selective expansion strategies, strengthening profitable routes and investing in a more efficient fleet. However, this growth once again collided with structural and cyclical bottlenecks, particularly regarding P&W engines.
The Benito Juarez International Airport (AICM) symbolizes these tensions. Slot restrictions, insufficient resources for major upgrades, and the rush to host global events created uncertainty for airlines, investors, and passengers alike. Meanwhile, the Felipe Angeles International Airport (AIFA) has yet to establish itself, demonstrating that infrastructure alone cannot solve connectivity issues without a comprehensive market strategy, incentives, and long-term planning.
Institutionally, there is a lack of clarity regarding governance and an incomplete understanding of operational safety standards aligned with international norms. The bilateral agreement with the US remains unresolved, serving as a reminder of the economic and reputational costs associated with regulatory errors in the aviation sector.
Key Questions and Answers
- What were the global trends in air transport demand in 2025? Passenger demand finally surpassed 2019 levels, especially in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
- What factors limited airline growth in 2025? Factors included rising fuel costs, currency volatility, supply chain disruptions affecting manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus, and the slow progress in adopting sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and reducing emissions.
- What regulatory pressures did the air transport sector face in 2025? There was a tightening of regulations concerning safety, sustainability, and quality control, along with increased pressure to adopt sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and reduce emissions.
- What were Mexico’s unique challenges in the air transport sector in 2025? Despite growth in domestic and international air traffic, Mexican airlines faced structural bottlenecks, particularly with P&W engines. Infrastructure issues at major airports and unresolved bilateral agreements with the US highlighted regulatory challenges.
