U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced a series of actions aimed at addressing issues related to Mexico’s adherence to the 2015 U.S.–Mexico Air Transport Agreement and ongoing concerns about competitive practices in the aviation market.
According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), Mexico has not been in compliance with the agreement since 2022, when it rescinded slots and required U.S. all-cargo carriers to relocate operations from Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX). Mexican authorities cited airport congestion and construction needs as the reason for the move, but U.S. officials note that planned construction has yet to occur. The shift has reportedly increased operational costs for U.S. businesses and raised concerns about market disruption.
“Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg deliberately allowed Mexico to break our bilateral aviation agreement,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “That ends today. Let these actions serve as a warning to any country who thinks it can take advantage of the U.S., our carriers, and our market. America First means fighting for the fundamental principle of fairness.”
DOT also stated that it is monitoring other countries to ensure compliance with air transport agreements. For example, it is reviewing how European states apply noise abatement procedures to ensure they follow the established Balanced Approach and do not impose unjustified operational restrictions.
The three actions announced include:
- Part 213 Order: Requiring Mexican airlines to file schedules with DOT for all U.S. operations.
- Part 212 Order: Requiring prior DOT approval before operating large passenger or cargo aircraft charter flights to or from the United States.
- Supplemental Show Cause Order: Proposing to withdraw the Delta/Aeromexico joint venture’s antitrust immunity (ATI) as a corrective measure to address competitive concerns in the market.
DOT emphasized that these steps are intended to ensure compliance with international aviation agreements and maintain fair and competitive air travel markets.
The original announcement can be found here.