Background on Mexicana de Aviación and its Workforce
Eight days ago, the first of twenty Embraer aircraft arrived at the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) for Mexicana de Aviación, a state-owned airline. This acquisition comes after Mexican officials and Brazilian counterparts reached an agreement during the invitation for Brazil to be the honored guest at the 2025 Mexican Aerospace and Defense Fair (FAMEX). The agreement included purchasing aircraft and exploring the manufacturing of aeronave parts in Mexican aerospace clusters.
Despite the positive developments, there remains an unresolved debt of 407 million pesos owed to the 6,500 former Mexicana workers. The airline’s relaunch has been met with uncertainty regarding its purpose and how it will utilize the new Embraer fleet for 132 to 146 passengers.
The New Mexicana de Aviación: Its Intended Role
Under the latest Civil Aviation Law, a government-owned airline aims to provide essential services for public utility, interest, or security. This differs from privately-owned airlines that receive concessions for commercial purposes. The new Mexicana de Aviación is expected to serve underdeveloped or isolated regions, such as Lázaro Cárdenas, Salina Cruz, and Piedras Negras, which lack adequate transportation infrastructure.
These regions require connectivity to promote economic growth, but the Embraer E190 and E195 aircraft may not be the optimal solution. Smaller, more efficient regional aircraft would better suit this market.
Potential Challenges and Concerns
Critics argue that Mexicana de Aviación’s entry into the market with subsidies could create an uneven playing field, potentially harming established airlines like Viva Aerobus, Volaris, and Aeromexico. The new airline’s competitive advantage might lead to unfair practices, causing issues within the industry.
It remains uncertain whether Mexicana de Aviación will genuinely serve public interest or if it will primarily benefit specific industries, such as steel, port, petroleum, or industrial sectors requiring improved connectivity.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of Mexicana de Aviación’s new Embraer fleet? The airline aims to provide essential services for underdeveloped regions, promoting economic growth and connectivity.
- Which aircraft are part of the new fleet? Mexicana de Aviación acquired 10 Embraer 190-E2 and 10 Embraer 195-E2 aircraft.
- What are the concerns surrounding Mexicana de Aviación’s relaunch? Critics worry about potential unfair competition and the suitability of the chosen aircraft for the targeted regions.
- How will Mexicana de Aviación’s operations impact existing airlines? There are concerns that the new airline might gain an unfair advantage through subsidies, potentially disrupting the industry’s balance.
