Background on Key Figures and Relevance
Jesús Esteva, the head of Mexico’s Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes (SICT), has been at the forefront of discussions regarding the relocation of cargo operations from Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and a reduction in passenger service operations. His efforts are crucial as they aim to establish new flight routes for Mexican airlines from AICM and the newly opened Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Ángeles (AIFA) before the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Current Status and Future Prospects
Esteva reported that negotiations with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) are progressing well. The Mexican subsecretary of Communications and Transportation, Tania Carro, is scheduled to visit the US for further talks in the coming days. Although no specific date has been set, Esteva anticipates a resolution before the World Cup, allowing for the removal of restrictions on new routes for Mexican airlines departing from AICM and AIFA.
He mentioned that US representatives have not suggested alternative airports to join the list. Recently, six slots have been returned to passenger airlines, contributing to resolving the dispute. Meanwhile, cargo operations, especially from US airlines, have been increasing at AIFA over the past few months.
Strengthening the Metropolitan Airport System
Esteva emphasized the importance of fortifying the entire metropolitan airport system, aligning with the vision presented by Mexico City’s mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. He advocates for an integrated approach, including AICM, AIFA, and Toluca’s airport, to ensure all three can support each other effectively.
Transparency in Slot Allocation
During discussions, DOT representatives requested that slot allocation (take-off and landing times) be managed by a neutral third party to ensure transparency. In response, the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) updated its general bases for slot allocation in congested airports, such as AICM. This update aims to improve flight punctuality, reduce cancellations, and minimize delays by implementing a more traceable and consolidated slot allocation system.
Transportation Projects Update
Mexico City-Toluca Passenger Train and AIFA Ramal
Esteva also discussed the progress of two major transportation projects: the Mexico City-Toluca passenger train and the Lechería ramral of the Tren Suburbano connecting to AIFA. Both projects are expected to begin operations in January, as they are currently undergoing testing phases.
Challenges and Dialogue
Esteva acknowledged that both projects faced social challenges, including occasional repression from local governments. However, he stressed that dialogue has always been maintained, leading to periods where certain areas could not be intervened upon.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main topic of discussion? The relocation of cargo operations from AICM and reduction in passenger service operations to establish new flight routes for Mexican airlines from AICM and AIFA before the World Cup.
- Who are the key figures involved? Jesús Esteva, head of SICT, and representatives from the US Department of Transportation (DOT).
- What is the current status of negotiations? Negotiations are progressing well, with a visit from Mexico’s subsecretary of Communications and Transportation scheduled for further talks.
- When can we expect a resolution? Esteva anticipates a resolution before the World Cup, allowing for the removal of restrictions on new routes.
- What is the vision for the metropolitan airport system? An integrated approach including AICM, AIFA, and Toluca’s airport to ensure all three can support each other effectively.
- How is transparency being addressed in slot allocation? The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) updated its general bases for slot allocation in congested airports, implementing a more traceable and consolidated system.
- What are the updates on transportation projects? The Mexico City-Toluca passenger train and the Lechería ramral of the Tren Suburbano connecting to AIFA are expected to begin operations in January.
- What challenges have the projects faced? Both projects encountered social challenges, including occasional repression from local governments.
