The United States has lifted restrictions on Mexican airlines after reaching an agreement with Mexico on airport access and air transport operations. This development follows the resolution of a dispute that arose due to changes in airport slot allocations and cargo operations requirements by Mexican authorities.
Last year, the US Department of Transportation imposed restrictions on Mexican airlines, citing violations of the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement. As a result, 13 routes were canceled, and operations involving Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) were limited. The dispute was primarily fueled by Mexico’s decision to adjust airport slot allocations for US airlines and mandate that cargo operators move from Mexico City International Airport to AIFA, which the US argued breached the bilateral agreement and added costs for American companies.
Intense negotiations in recent months led to a breakthrough in May, with Mexico agreeing to ensure fair access to operating slots at Mexico City International Airport for US airlines. This agreement has been pivotal in the US decision to revoke the restrictions, which took immediate effect.
Mexican authorities have welcomed the US move, describing it as a significant step toward enhancing air connectivity between the two nations. The lifting of these restrictions is expected to open new opportunities for airlines, allowing for the expansion of flight routes and frequencies between Mexico City International Airport, AIFA, and the United States.