The United States has lifted restrictions on Mexican airlines, following an agreement over airport access and air transport operations between the two countries. This move comes after the US Department of Transportation announced the revocation of measures imposed last year due to alleged violations of a 2015 bilateral air transport agreement.
The restrictions had previously led to the cancellation of 13 routes and limited operations involving Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA). The conflict originated when Mexico altered airport slot allocations for US airlines and mandated that cargo operators transfer their operations from Mexico City International Airport to AIFA. The US argued that these actions breached the bilateral agreement and imposed additional costs on American companies.
After intensive negotiations, an agreement was reached in May, with Mexico committing to providing US airlines with fair access to operating slots at Mexico City International Airport. Mexican authorities have expressed approval of the US decision to lift the restrictions, viewing it as a significant step toward enhancing air connectivity and expanding flight routes and frequencies between the two nations.
With the removal of these restrictions, new opportunities may arise for airlines to develop services from both Mexico City International Airport and AIFA to the US market. The decision is seen as a move that could strengthen the aviation ties between the US and Mexico, benefiting travelers and the airline industry in both countries.