Mexican government holds technical talks with the United States
The president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, confirmed that the Mexican government maintains a permanent dialogue with the authorities of the United States following the decision of the Department of Transportation (DOT) to revoke the authorization for thirteen air routes operated by Mexican companies. This regulatory measure included the order to suspend all codeshare services to Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), a decision that directly impacts connectivity and the supply of flights between both nations.
In a press conference, the president explained that a team of Mexican specialists traveled to Washington to hold a working meeting with representatives of the U.S. Department of Transportation. During this meeting, the Mexican delegation presented the arguments and official position of the Government of Mexico regarding the restrictions imposed by the administration of President Donald Trump. Sheinbaum stressed the existence of an open communication channel, stating: “There are meetings with the Department of Transportation of the United States government,” when questioned about the progress following the cancellation of routes and reports on an alleged demand for the return of slots in favor of US airlines.
Technical foundations of the Mexican position
The President explained that the Mexican representation emphasized to their American counterparts that the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico operates with a dual infrastructure, made up of two main airports: the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and the AIFA. From the Mexican perspective, it is a fundamental responsibility of the State to promote both airport complexes as components of an interconnected and complementary system. “What we want is for the two airports to have enough flights and be part of a system… It is very important that they recognize the importance of promoting the two airports also with their American airlines,” Sheinbaum said, outlining the administration’s strategic objective.
According to the president’s report, the DOT showed receptivity and understanding to this structural approach. It should be noted that, in the weeks prior to this negotiation, a redistribution of slots had already been carried out in the AICM, assigning operating spaces to US airlines within a framework of fair and balanced competition. This precedent is seen as a gesture of goodwill and a step towards finding mutually beneficial solutions that respect current bilateral aviation agreements.
Modernization and future perspectives for national aviation
In a significant announcement for air traffic management, Sheinbaum announced that an advanced digital system for slot management at the AICM will come into operation next year. This technological innovation will allow optimization in allocation, promoting greater competition and a more efficient order in the distribution of schedules between national and foreign airlines. This modernization is aligned with the commitments established in the treaties signed with the United States and other nations, seeking to raise standards of operation and transparency.
Regarding the logistics and air cargo transportation segment, the President commented that she held a direct meeting with representatives of companies in the sector to identify their most pressing operational needs. “There are some issues related to customs processes that need to be improved and other issues that were raised. We are going to accompany them in this process,” he stated, pledging government support to expedite this crucial economic activity. Despite the challenge posed by the restrictions imposed by Washington, Sheinbaum characterized the general atmosphere of the negotiations as “positive”, anticipating that the dialogues will extend for several more weeks. The final objective is to reach a consensus that guarantees both the efficient operation of the Mexican airport system and full compliance with bilateral commitments in aviation, ensuring connectivity and economic development for both countries.
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