On July 19, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a series of enforcement measures against Mexico, citing violations of the 2015 U.S.–Mexico Bilateral Air Transport Agreement.
According to the Department of Transportation, since 2022 Mexico has revoked airport slots from U.S. airlines and forced U.S. all-cargo carriers to relocate from Mexico City International Airport (AICM), altering market conditions and increasing costs for U.S. operators.
In response, the DOT introduced three key measures:
Mexican airlines must now submit all U.S. flight schedules. U.S. with the Department of Transportation.
Charter flights involving large aircraft require prior approval from the DOT.
The DOT has proposed withdrawing antitrust immunity from the Delta–Aeroméxico alliance.
These measures are aimed at addressing what U.S. authorities consider anticompetitive behavior and restoring a level playing field in the bilateral aviation market.
In response to the aforementioned DOT announcement, the Government of Mexico, thru the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC), provided an update on its strategy to strengthen the airport system in the Mexico City metropolitan area.
According to AFAC, the key measures include the planned reduction of operations at Mexico City International Airport (AICM), the transfer of cargo operations to Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), and the modernization of airport infrastructure. These measures aim to improve aviation safety, operational efficiency, and competition.
Following a 2023 capacity study that highlighted safety and service risks at AICM, the Mexican government prioritized operational improvements, resulting in:
- 22% less runway occupancy time
- 83% reduction in immigration wait times
- 69% improvement in security checkpoint efficiency
- AICM ranks third worldwide in on-time performance
- MXN 8 billion invested in runways, taxiways, and terminals
The development of AIFA has redistributed flights and relieved pressure on AICM. Since February 2023:
- Cargo airlines operating at AIFA increased by 161%.
- More than 843,000 tons of cargo were handled (compared to AICM’s 250,000 tons per year in 2022).
- Unrestricted availability in a modern, specialized facility
- Coordinated security and logistical support from all levels of government
- Strong land connectivity to major industrial and commercial corridors
AFAC noted that Mexico reaffirmed its commitment to a safe, efficient, and competitive aviation sector and will continue to coordinate with airlines, international authorities, and stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth and improved service for passengers.
