The United States has lifted restrictions on Mexican airlines, marking a significant development in the ongoing negotiations between the two countries over air transport operations and airport access. The U.S. Department of Transportation announced the revocation of measures that were implemented last year due to alleged breaches of the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement.
The restrictions had led to the cancellation of 13 routes and imposed limitations on operations involving Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA). The conflict arose after Mexico altered airport slot allocations for U.S. airlines and mandated that cargo operators transfer their operations from Mexico City International Airport to AIFA, prompting complaints from Washington about increased costs and violations of the bilateral agreement.
Recent months saw intensified negotiations, culminating in a May agreement where Mexico pledged to ensure fair access to operating slots at Mexico City International Airport for U.S. airlines. This agreement is seen as a pivotal step toward resolving the dispute and enhancing cooperation in air transport between the two nations.
Mexican authorities have welcomed the U.S. decision to lift the restrictions, citing it as a crucial move towards improving air connectivity and expanding flight routes and frequencies between Mexico and the United States. The lifting of these restrictions opens the door for airlines to explore new service opportunities from both Mexico City International Airport and AIFA to the U.S. market.