The US lifted curbs that had blocked extra routes from Mexico City's Benito Juárez (AICM) and Felipe Ángeles (AIFA) airports, opening the door for local airlines to launch new US flights. Those limits, in place since October 2025, derailed over a dozen existing and planned Mexico to US routes by local carriers.
Washington imposed the measures after the Mexican government restricted US airlines, including cutting slots at Benito Juárez and moving cargo flights to Felipe Ángeles, steps the US said violated bilateral aviation accords. In an emailed statement, the Department of Transportation said it based the move on steps Mexico took to remedy what the US described as a failure to comply with an agreement reached last year. The DOT added that "Mexico has demonstrated progress" toward its commitments and that officials will continue to monitor adherence to a memorandum reached in May with Mexico's transportation ministry.
The policy shift gives Mexican carriers more room to grow in the US market. Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Francois Duflot said the opening should help Aeromexico reinforce its position as Mexico's leading airline and could enable new routes for budget player Volaris amid weak domestic demand. He also cautioned that elevated jet-fuel costs are likely to postpone near-term choices about adding US flying. Earlier on Friday, Mexico announced the lifting of restrictions, highlighting implementation of commitments after progress on the May agreements.
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A new rail connection is making it easier to reach Felipe Ángeles, whereas Benito Juárez, which sits closer to the city center, is still struggling with overcrowding. The bottom line: for portfolios exposed to Mexican airlines, monitor US route announcements and fuel expenses, bearing in mind that elevated jet-fuel prices are likely to temper near-term expansion moves.
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