More than a dozen cross-border air routes between the United States and Mexico are being grounded this weekend under a US Department of Transportation (DOT) order targeting what it calls “unfair aviation practices” by Mexico.
The move impacts 13 key services operated by Aeroméxico (AM), Volaris (Y4), and Viva Aerobus (VB), effectively cutting several U.S.–Mexico City (MEX, NLU) connections and affecting thousands of travelers across both nations.
US Suspends 13 Mexico Flight Routes
The DOT’s directive marks one of the most significant shifts in U.S.–Mexico air travel since the two countries signed the 2015 Open Skies Air Transport Agreement. That agreement allowed airlines to freely determine routes, capacity, and pricing without government interference.
However, tensions have grown over the past few years as U.S. officials accuse Mexico of favoring its domestic carriers and restricting access for American airlines at key airports like Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU).
The DOT’s ruling primarily targets Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus. The order mandates the suspension of 13 flight routes by November 7, 2025, citing violations of competition laws and unfair slot allocation at Mexico City’s main airports.
It also includes a halt on all Mexican carrier operations between Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) and any U.S. destination, effectively closing that corridor to Mexican operators.
The U.S. government argues that the three airlines’ joint operations—especially the Delta Air Lines (DL) and Aeroméxico (AM) partnership—distort competition.
The DOT described their collaboration as “legalized collusion,” claiming it gave them a dominant 60 percent share of U.S.–Mexico City passenger traffic.
Legal Battle Between Carriers and the US Govt
Delta and Aeroméxico have appealed to delay the order, seeking to maintain their joint venture until the U.S. Court of Appeals reviews the case. Both airlines warned that unwinding their alliance prematurely would cause significant financial harm.
However, the DOT insists that restoring open competition takes priority over individual airline losses.
The dispute dates back to 2022 when U.S. carriers accused Mexico of breaching the Open Skies Agreement after several of their flight slots were revoked at Mexico City International Airport (MEX).
The U.S. government later downgraded Mexico’s aviation safety rating, citing oversight issues, though it was restored in 2023.
Impact on Travelers and Airlines
Passengers booked on affected routes face immediate disruptions. The DOT confirmed that travelers are entitled to full refunds or rebooking options.
While major U.S. airlines such as American Airlines (AA), United Airlines (UA), and Delta Air Lines (DL) continue to operate regular services to Mexico City, fares are expected to rise as low-cost options disappear.
Viva Aerobus, the most affected carrier, acknowledged that the suspension will impact thousands of passengers. The airline called for “constructive dialogue” between the U.S. and Mexican governments to resolve the conflict and limit disruption.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the U.S. action, warning it could strain bilateral travel and trade. She confirmed plans to meet with domestic airlines and request talks with the U.S. Secretary of State to seek a fair resolution.
Full List of 13 Canceled Routes
Aeroméxico (AM):
- Mexico City (Benito Juárez International Airport, MEX) → San Juan, Puerto Rico (Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, SJU)
- Mexico City (Felipe Ángeles International Airport, NLU) → Houston (George Bush Intercontinental Airport, IAH)
- Mexico City (NLU) → McAllen International Airport (MFE)
Volaris (Y4):
- Mexico City (MEX) → Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Viva Aerobus (VB):
- Mexico City (NLU) → Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
- Mexico City (NLU) → John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Mexico City (NLU) → O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Mexico City (NLU) → Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Mexico City (NLU) → Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Mexico City (NLU) → Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Mexico City (NLU) → Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Mexico City (NLU) → Orlando International Airport (MCO)
General Suspension:
- All combined passenger and cargo flights by Mexican carriers from Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) to any U.S. destination.
Outlook for Bilateral Air Travel
Analysts suggest the dispute could push fares higher and limit seat availability during the upcoming travel seasons.
Unless the DOT revises its order, airlines may need to reroute through Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) or reduce U.S.–Mexico frequencies altogether.
Both governments have indicated a willingness to reopen discussions, but no timeline has been announced. For now, travelers are advised to verify bookings directly with their airline before departure and monitor official updates from the DOT and Mexico’s civil aviation authority.
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