The United States has lifted restrictions on Mexican airlines, a move announced by the US Department of Transportation following a resolution to a conflict over airport access and air transport operations between the two nations. This decision comes in the wake of an agreement reached in May that ensures US airlines fair access to slots at Mexico City International Airport.
These restrictions were initially imposed last year due to alleged violations of the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement by Mexican authorities. The measures resulted in the cancellation of 13 routes and imposed limitations on operations involving Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA). The dispute arose when Mexico altered airport slot allocations for US airlines and mandated that cargo operators relocate their operations from Mexico City International Airport to AIFA, actions which Washington claimed breached the bilateral agreement and imposed additional costs on US companies.
After months of intensified negotiations, the resolution of these issues has led to the removal of these restrictions, which Mexican authorities have hailed as a significant step forward. They noted that the lifting of these measures would enhance air connectivity and allow for an expansion of flight routes and frequencies between the two countries.
The agreement reached in May is seen as pivotal, as it addresses the core issues of slot allocations and operational access, which were central to the dispute. This development opens up new opportunities for airlines, enabling them to explore and expand services from Mexico City International Airport and AIFA to the US market.
The decision to revoke the restrictions reflects an improvement in diplomatic and commercial relations between the United States and Mexico in the aviation sector, potentially paving the way for increased collaboration and growth in air travel between the neighboring countries.