US Threatens to Halt Flights in Response to Mexican Airline Slot Disputes

The US Department of Transportation has issued a stern warning to the Mexican government, indicating that flight requests from Mexico could be denied if certain issues remain unresolved. This escalation follows Mexico’s decision to revoke American airline slots at Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport, forcing carriers such as American, Delta, and United Airlines to vacate the airport within 108 days.

These actions are part of a broader dispute over bilateral aviation agreements. The US accuses Mexico of violating the 2015 agreement, which initially allowed US carriers to operate at the airport. The Mexican government’s move to seize slots and restrict access has led the US to consider suspending privileges like antitrust immunity for airlines such as Delta and Aeromexico, citing concerns about market competitiveness and economic harm.

American cargo carriers, originally granted slots under the agreement, have yet to return to Mexico City after the suspension was enacted over three years ago. Despite the delay, the Department of Transportation reports that the required construction that prompted the cargo carriers’ removal has still not begun.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized Mexico’s lack of a transparent slot allocation system, accusing it of harming airlines, consumers, and trade. He warned that these actions compromise long-term market competitiveness and could lead to significant consequences, including the termination of joint ventures that allow airlines to share revenue and coordinate operations.

Furthermore, the US intends to revoke antitrust protections, which could impact the ability of Delta and Aeromexico to collaborate. Delta Airlines expressed concerns that such measures would negatively affect travelers, jobs, and transborder competition, and is reviewing orders to resolve the ongoing issues with the US government.

Illustrative Images

Aeromexico airplanes at an airport — Aeromexico airplanes at Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport.

Aeromexico airplane at Mexico City airport — Assessments of Mexico’s aviation safety standards have become a point of concern amid ongoing disputes.

Delta Airlines plane at airport — A Delta Airlines aircraft, amid ongoing industry tensions stemming from the slot dispute.

These escalating tensions highlight the delicate balance of international air agreements, with the US emphasizing that unfair practices and lack of transparency in Mexico’s airline operations threaten fair competition and the broader economic relationship.