Mexican airlines can once again expand their service to the United States from the two major airports serving the capital. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) revoked a restrictive order on Friday, October 16, with immediate effect, restoring the ability of carriers to add routes and frequencies.

What was the previous restriction?

The revocation voids an October 2025 order that had disapproved existing, proposed, and future schedules from both Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA). This previous measure had frozen the growth of Mexican airlines and canceled 13 current or planned routes.

Some of the affected services included:

  • Aeroméxico flights from AIFA to Houston and McAllen.
  • A planned Volaris service between Mexico City and Newark.
  • Various Viva routes from AIFA to cities including Austin, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Why did the U.S. change its decision?

The DOT determined that recent actions by the Mexican government addressed concerns regarding the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement. According to Grupo Aeroméxico, the decision follows steps taken to resolve previous disputes. Mexican authorities attributed the change to strengthened bilateral dialogue following a memorandum of consultations signed in May.

Previously, Washington had cited breaches of the air transport agreement, specifically regarding the removal of slots from U.S. passenger airlines at AICM and the relocation of cargo flights to AIFA.

Are there still limitations for airlines?

While the freeze is lifted, the relief is not absolute. The DOT will continue to require Mexican carriers to register their schedules for flights to and from the United States. Additionally, airlines must still obtain specific approval to operate widebody aircraft.

Major carriers like Aeroméxico and Volaris have expressed that the move provides greater flexibility to evaluate new international connections and increase flight frequencies. However, neither company has announced specific new routes or launch dates yet.

FAQ

Does this mean all flights are automatically approved?

No, airlines must still file their schedules for approval and meet individual regulatory and logistical conditions.

Which airports are included in this decision?

The decision applies to flights operating from both the Benito Juárez International Airport (AICM) and the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA).