Background on the Issue
Sean Duffy, the United States Secretary of Transportation, recently announced a series of measures to address what he described as Mexico’s “brazen violation” of the 2015 Bilateral Air Transport Agreement. Duffy accused Mexico of forcing cargo operators to relocate to the poorly connected Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) and of abruptly terminating, since 2022, the slot allocations given to airlines for scheduled departures or arrivals at specific times (known as slots) in congested airports with limited runway, platform, or terminal capacity.
According to Duffy, Mexico “broke its word, distorted the market, and left American businesses bearing millions in additional costs.” The Department of Transportation (DOT) communication mentioned that Mexico justified the relocation of cargo operations from Benito Juárez International Airport (AICM) to AIFA, claiming it was to allow congestion-relief construction. However, three years later, these improvements have not materialized or yielded verifiable benefits.
US Measures Against Mexico
In response, Duffy issued three regulatory orders stating that, starting August 18, Mexican airlines must seek prior authorization from the DOT for large-capacity charter flights. Any regular flight scheduled to start after August 19 must present its schedules at least 30 days in advance for approval. These measures apply to both passenger and cargo flights, adding extra control over all Mexican operations heading to the US.
Furthermore, the DOT initiated the process to revoke the anti-monopoly immunity of the Delta–Aeroméxico alliance, a crucial strategic partnership for both airlines.
Causes of the Conflict
The situation largely stems from Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s hasty policies, which left Mexico with a disjointed, militarized airport system not in line with international rules. During his tenure, the new Texcoco International Airport project was canceled, AIFA was imposed, and AICM operations were reduced without offering viable alternatives.
Consequences for Mexican Aviation
The repercussions for Mexican aviation will be severe. Aeroméxico will lose its ability to coordinate prices and routes with Delta, placing it at a disadvantage against competitors. Low-cost airlines will face additional bureaucratic hurdles and the risk of having seasonal routes or new frequencies denied. Ultimately, Mexican passengers will bear the brunt: fewer options, higher fares, and poorer service.
If the conflict escalates, Mexico could lose up to $2.5 billion in exports and incoming tourism.
Summary of Key Questions and Answers
- What is the issue? The US accuses Mexico of violating the 2015 Bilateral Air Transport Agreement by forcing cargo operators to relocate to AIFA and terminating slot allocations without justification.
- What measures has the US taken? The DOT issued regulatory orders requiring Mexican airlines to seek prior authorization for large charter flights and present schedules 30 days in advance for approval. The DOT also initiated the process to revoke Delta–Aeroméxico’s anti-monopoly immunity.
- Why is this happening? The conflict results from Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s hasty airport policies, which disregarded international rules and left Mexico with a disjointed system.
- What are the consequences for Mexican aviation? Aeroméxico will lose coordination with Delta, low-cost airlines face bureaucratic hurdles, and passengers may experience fewer options, higher fares, and poorer service. If the conflict escalates, Mexico could lose significant export and tourism revenue.
