Background on Key Players and Context
Mexico’s aviation sector is a vital component of the country’s infrastructure, connecting it to global markets and facilitating trade and tourism. Aeroméxico, one of Mexico’s major airlines, has been a significant player in the industry for decades. In 2017, Aeroméxico entered into a strategic alliance with Delta Air Lines to enhance their networks and offerings, benefiting passengers through improved connectivity and service.
US Department of Transportation’s Decision
In a recent development, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) decided to end the antitrust immunity granted to Aeroméxico and Delta Air Lines’ alliance starting January 1, 2026. This decision stems from four specific observations made by the DOT at Mexico City International Airport.
Mexican Government’s Response
The Mexican government, represented by the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), addressed these four observations in full. The SICT does not understand or agree with the DOT’s decision, as it believes that the alliance between Aeroméxico and Delta Air Lines does not violate any bilateral aviation agreements or laws of either country.
Impact on Passengers and Aviation Sector
The DOT’s decision will not affect passengers or the aviation sector in any way:
- Unaffected Routes and Schedules: Passengers with tickets from either Aeroméxico or Delta Air Lines will continue to enjoy their existing routes and flight schedules without any changes.
- Frequent Flyer Programs: The reciprocal frequent flyer programs will remain operational, allowing passengers to accumulate and redeem miles without any modifications.
- Codeshare Agreements: Existing codeshare agreements between the two airlines will continue to be valid, ensuring seamless connectivity for passengers.
Moreover, this decision does not limit the airlines’ traffic rights or bilateral aviation agreements, which remain fully in effect. The Mexican airline sector will continue to ensure connectivity between the two countries through ongoing codeshare agreements.
Cargo Operations and Future Meetings
In compliance with President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s instructions, the SICT held workshops and dialogues with all cargo airlines operating at Benito Juárez International Airport (AIFA). These airlines expressed their willingness to continue operations at AIFA, acknowledging the benefits of flexible scheduling, robust physical and technological infrastructure, and strategic geographical location.
In 2024, cargo operations in the Valley of Mexico saw a 6.5% increase, demonstrating the sector’s growth and resilience.
The SICT plans to meet with Aeroméxico to discuss this situation and ensure that Mexican pilots are not adversely affected by the DOT’s decision.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the DOT’s decision regarding Aeroméxico and Delta Air Lines’ alliance? The DOT decided to end the antitrust immunity for the Aeroméxico-Delta Air Lines alliance starting January 1, 2026.
- How will this decision impact passengers? Passengers will not experience any changes in routes, schedules, or frequent flyer programs. Codeshare agreements will remain valid.
- Will the DOT’s decision limit traffic rights or bilateral aviation agreements? No, the decision does not affect traffic rights or bilateral aviation agreements, which will remain fully in effect.
- How has the Mexican government responded to the DOT’s decision? The Mexican government, represented by the SICT, addressed and responded to the DOT’s four observations, stating that they do not understand or agree with the decision.
- What is the status of cargo operations at Benito Juárez International Airport (AIFA)? Cargo operations at AIFA have seen a 6.5% increase in 2024, with cargo airlines expressing satisfaction with the infrastructure and strategic location.
- What measures will be taken to address the impact on Mexican pilots? The SICT plans to meet with Aeroméxico to discuss this situation and ensure that Mexican pilots are not negatively affected by the DOT’s decision.
