Background and Relevance
The Puebla State Government, led by Secretary of Economic Development and Employment Víctor Gabriel Chedraui, is exploring the possibility of converting the International Airport of Puebla “Hermanos Serdán” into a layover point for flights originating from the south, destined for New York. This initiative aims to address the airport’s current underutilization, which operates at only 5% of its cargo capacity and handles just 11 daily flights, when it could accommodate up to 18 per hour.
Current Status and Future Prospects
The airport, located in Huejotzingo, has seen a significant increase in both domestic and international destinations. Initially offering five national routes and one international flight to Houston, the airport now connects to 11 domestic locations and five international destinations. The state government aims to further boost flight frequencies and cargo operations, strengthening regional air connectivity and opening new international routes.
Recent Expansion of Routes
- New domestic destinations include Chihuahua, Puerto Escondido (Oaxaca), Tuxtla Gutiérrez (Chiapas), Huatulco (Oaxaca), Hermosillo (Sonora), Los Cabos (Baja California), Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco), and León (Guanajuato).
- Existing connections to Cancún, Tijuana, Guadalajara, Mérida, and Monterrey have been maintained.
Collaboration and Infrastructure Development
Chedraui mentioned that the Puebla governor is in talks with airlines such as Viva Aerobús, Volaris, and Mexicana de Aviación to establish more routes. Additionally, the state government is working with the federal government to secure 80 hectares of land adjacent to the airport for infrastructure expansion. The ultimate goal is to attract a company specializing in aircraft maintenance.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation of the International Airport of Puebla? The airport currently operates at only 5% of its cargo capacity and handles 11 daily flights, far below its potential.
- What is the Puebla State Government’s plan for the airport? The government aims to transform the airport into a southern flight hub for New York, increasing flight frequencies and cargo operations.
- Which airlines are involved in discussions for new routes? The Puebla governor is in talks with Viva Aerobús, Volaris, and Mexicana de Aviación for establishing more routes.
- What infrastructure developments are planned? The state government is working with the federal government to acquire land for expansion and attract a company specializing in aircraft maintenance.
