US Imposes New Restrictions On Mexican Flights Over Air Agreement Violations

The US government has imposed new restrictions on flights from Mexico, citing violations of the 2015 US-Mexico Air Transport Agreement.

The move comes after allegations that Mexico has been out of compliance with the agreement since 2022.

The US Department of Transportation said the breach began when Mexico abruptly revoked airline slots. It also forced American all-cargo carriers to shift operations away from Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX).

At the time, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador justified the decision by pointing to congestion at the capital’s main airport and the need for upgrades ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Mexico will co-host. He proposed diverting traffic to a newer airport located about 48 kilometres away.

The US transportation department said these measures disrupted commercial aviation, increased costs for American businesses, and violated previously agreed commitments.

“By restricting slots and mandating that all-cargo operations move out of MEX, Mexico has broken its promise, disrupted the market, and left American businesses holding the bag for millions in increased costs,” the department said in a statement.

In response, Transportation Secretary Sean P Duffy announced three new measures:

1. Mexican airlines must now submit schedules for all US operations for approval.
2. Charter flights using large passenger or cargo aircraft to and from the US will require prior authorisation.
3. The department is considering withdrawing antitrust immunity for the joint venture between Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico.

Delta and Aeromexico, who formed their alliance in 2016, have pushed back against the threats. They stated that their partnership should not be penalised for government actions beyond their control.

They warned that breaking up the alliance could jeopardise nearly two dozen flight routes and eliminate around $800 million in annual consumer savings.

The US government also warned it will block future flight requests from Mexico unless it takes corrective action.

Despite current tensions, Mexico remains a top travel destination for Americans.

In 2024 alone, the country welcomed approximately 45 million international tourists, according to data from the Mexican National Institute of Statistics and Geography.

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