Mexican Airlines Respond to U. S. Transportation Department’s Cancellation of Routes to the U. S.

In response to the recent decision made by the U. S. Transportation Department to block 13 planned or current routes to the U. S. , Mexican airlines are now facing potential disruptions to their operations. The department has cited alleged violations of the air transport agreement between the two countries as the reason for the cancellations.

One of the affected airlines, Viva Aerobus, has expressed concern over the impact this decision will have on the upcoming holiday season. The Monterrey-based low-cost carrier has stated that it is working closely with authorities in both Mexico and the U. S. to fully understand the order and assist affected passengers.

Viva Aerobus has also expressed their trust in the ongoing dialogue between the two governments to find a fair and reasonable solution to this issue, while minimizing its impact on travelers. The airline had planned to launch flights between Felipe Ángeles International Airport and multiple U. S. cities in November, but the DOT has now disapproved these routes.

Similarly, Volaris, another low-cost carrier, has had its planned route between Mexico City and Newark, New Jersey canceled. The airline has issued a statement acknowledging the Transportation Department’s decision and has pledged to support affected travelers. Volaris has also stated that it is in contact with relevant authorities and the aviation industry to find a solution and prevent future disruptions to its operations.

Aeroméxico, Mexico’s flag carrier, has also been affected by the cancellations, with routes to San Juan, Puerto Rico and Houston and McAllen, Texas being scrapped. The airline has yet to submit any comments on the matter.

In response to the DOT’s decision, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed her opposition and is seeking a meeting between Mexico’s foreign minister and the U. S. Secretary of State to discuss the grounds for the cancellation. She is also expected to meet with representatives from the Mexican airline industry to hear their perspective on the issue.

The U. S. Transportation Department has stated that Mexico has repeatedly violated the terms of the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement by canceling slots for U. S. carriers at Benito Juárez International Airport and relocating U. S. cargo operations to the more distant Felipe Ángeles. These alleged violations have also led to the cancellation of Delta’s joint venture with Aeroméxico in September, with the department citing concerns about market distortions.

In conclusion, the cancellation of these routes to the U. S. has caused concern and disruption for Mexican airlines. The ongoing dialogue between the two governments and the efforts of the airlines to find a solution will be crucial in minimizing the impact on travelers and maintaining air connectivity between the two countries.