The United States has removed restrictions on Mexican airlines after the two countries made progress in resolving a dispute over airport access and air transport operations. The US Department of Transportation announced the immediate revocation of measures introduced last year due to alleged violations of the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement, which had resulted in the cancellation of 13 routes and limited certain operations involving Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA).
The conflict originated when Mexico altered airport slot allocations for US airlines and required cargo operators to transfer their operations from Mexico City International Airport to AIFA. Washington contended that these actions breached the bilateral agreement and imposed additional costs on US companies. In response, the US had implemented restrictions affecting Mexican airlines.
Negotiations between the two nations intensified over recent months, culminating in an agreement in May. As part of the resolution, Mexico committed to ensuring fair access for US airlines to operating slots at Mexico City International Airport. This development was crucial in paving the way for the US to lift its restrictions.
Mexican authorities have welcomed the US decision, viewing it as a significant step toward enhancing air connectivity and expanding flight routes and frequencies between the two nations. The removal of these restrictions is anticipated to open new opportunities for airlines to develop services from both Mexico City International Airport and AIFA to the US market.