The United States has lifted restrictions on Mexican airlines following a resolution to a dispute concerning airport access and air transport operations between the two countries. This decision comes after the US Department of Transportation announced the revocation of measures introduced last year, which were based on alleged violations 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 when Mexico altered airport slot allocations for US airlines and mandated that cargo operators shift their operations from Mexico City International Airport to AIFA. Washington contended that these changes breached the bilateral agreement and imposed undue costs on US companies.
In recent months, intensified negotiations culminated in an agreement reached in May, where Mexico committed to ensuring fair access for US airlines to operating slots at Mexico City International Airport. This commitment was a crucial step toward resolving the disagreement and restoring normal air transport operations between the two nations.
Mexican authorities have welcomed the US decision, considering it a significant move towards enhancing air connectivity and expanding flight routes and frequencies between the US and Mexico. The lifting of these restrictions is expected to open up new opportunities for airlines to develop services from both Mexico City International Airport and AIFA to the US market.