Full Breakdown
U.S. DOT Lifts Restrictions on New Mexican Flights from Mexico City Airports
By Drooid · · How we work
Policy Change Enables New Flights
On Oct 16, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that Mexican airlines may launch new services to the United States from Mexico City’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) and Benito Juárez International Airport. The lift of the restrictions follows steps taken by Mexico to address U.S. concerns about compliance with the 2015 bilateral air-transport agreement. The decision also allows carriers to file schedules and obtain approval for operating large aircraft on the new routes.
Background & Context
The restrictions stemmed from a 2021 downgrade by the U.S. regulator, which found Mexico’s aviation oversight did not meet international safety standards. That downgrade had limited Mexican carriers’ ability to expand U.S. services and allowed U.S. airlines to capture market share. In the months that followed, the Federal Aviation Administration restored Mexico’s top safety rating, clearing the way for broader route expansion. The 2015 agreement, originally negotiated under the Trump administration, set the framework for slot allocations and cargo operations that later became points of dispute.
Official Statements & Responses
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in May that Mexico had agreed to improve aviation access to Mexico City, a commitment that underpins the current policy shift. A U.S. Department of Transportation spokesperson described the lift as reflecting Mexico’s progress on the 2015 agreement and noted that two other orders related to the dispute remain in effect. Mexican ministries of foreign affairs, communications, and transportation issued a joint statement welcoming the change, emphasizing that it will strengthen air connectivity. Viva and Aeroméxico, the two carriers specifically mentioned, echoed the ministries’ optimism.
Data & Statistics
- Two Mexico City airports are now cleared for new U.S. routes.
- Two Mexican airlines—Viva and Aeroméxico—publicly expressed support.
- The U.S. DOT will continue to require schedule filings and large-aircraft approvals for all new services.
Implications for Air Connectivity
The policy adjustment is expected to increase flight options between the United States and Mexico’s capital, potentially boosting passenger and cargo volumes. Ongoing monitoring by the U.S. DOT and the FAA will determine whether additional restrictions are lifted or new requirements are imposed as Mexico continues to demonstrate compliance with the bilateral agreement.