The United States has canceled 13 Mexican airline routes and frozen extensions of new service from Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX), escalating tensions over aviation rights between the two nations. The move was announced on Tuesday by the Minister of Transport Sean P. Duffystops all passenger flights between the US and Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) and responds to what U.S. officials call Mexico’s “ongoing abuses.” 2015 US-Mexico Air Transport Agreement.
Routes affected include from Aeroméxico NLU-Houston and NLU-McAllen flights, From Volaris MEX-Newark service, and Viva Aerobus planned NLU routes to major US destinations such as Los Angeles, Miami and New York. The Department of Transportation has also proposed banning Mexican carriers from shipping belly load between Mexico City and the United States, which could come into effect in approximately 108 business days.
Secretary Duffy said Mexico has not fulfilled the agreement since 2022, when it withdrew airport slots from U.S. airlines and forced all freight carriers to move out of MEX. “These deals are binding, and like our trade agreements, President Trump will put America first and enforce them,” Duffy said.
Potential impact on Mexican tourism
The cancellations can have major consequences The Mexican tourism sectorone of the country’s most important economic engines. With fewer flight options between major U.S. and Mexican cities, travel capacity could become tighter, potentially increasing ticket prices and reducing accessibility for U.S. tourists. The U.S. remains Mexico’s largest source of international visitors, and air connections have been critical to tourism’s post-pandemic recovery.
Industry analysts warn that reduced competition and reduced route availability could impact popular destinations served by Mexico City’s hubs such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos. Mexican airlines could also suffer financial losses if restrictions remain, especially during the upcoming winter season.
Travelers affected by the cancellations are advised to contact their airline for rebookings or alternative flight options.
