In a major development for international aviation and cross-border logistics, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) recently announced the revocation of approval for 13 air routes operated or planned by Mexican airlines to the U.S., as well as the review and suspension of combined passenger and cargo (“belly cargo”) services from Mexico. This decision reflects a stricter enforcement of the United States–Mexico Air Transport Agreement (2015) and highlights the critical importance of international aviation compliance to ensure safe and uninterrupted operations in cross-border markets.

According to the DOT, these measures are based on non-compliance by the Mexican government, including the cancellation of U.S. airline flights in Mexico, irregular slot redistribution, and the forced relocation of cargo operations from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to other facilities such as Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU). The affected routes include active Aeroméxico services between NLU and Houston (IAH) and McAllen (MFE), projected Viva Aerobus routes from NLU to Austin, Newark, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, and Orlando, as well as other international routes operated by Aeroméxico and Volaris to New York, San Juan, and beyond. The measures also include a temporary suspension of any future expansion of combined passenger and cargo operations, affecting the ability to transport goods in the belly hold of passenger aircraft to the U.S. until bilateral compliance issues are resolved.

For companies specializing in air transport, cargo, and logistics, the DOT’s decision presents multiple strategic and operational challenges. Airlines will need to reconfigure itineraries, redirect cargo to alternative airports, and reorganize slot allocations, which may result in delays and additional supply chain costs. The U.S. action underscores that compliance with bilateral agreements is essential and that any violations can lead to significant operational restrictions. Sectors such as automotive, electronics, and light manufacturing, which rely on air transport between Mexico and the U.S., may face bottlenecks or higher logistical costs if cargo capacity is affected. The measure also seeks to restore fair market access for U.S. airlines, placing pressure on Mexico to comply with international regulations and ensure continuity of its air operations. Logistics companies must proactively inform clients about potential impacts, propose alternative routes, and ensure that transportation and delivery processes are efficiently adjusted to the new restrictions.

The Mexican government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, has expressed disagreement with the U.S. decision and is seeking a dialogue with U.S. authorities to review actions considered unilateral. The DOT maintains that the non-compliance situation dates back to 2022, when violations related to slot redistribution and cargo operations were first identified. This event highlights the importance of strategic planning and operational adaptability in a highly regulated sector subject to bilateral decisions. For transport operators, airlines, and logistics companies, minimizing risks requires anticipating regulatory changes, diversifying routes and airports, and maintaining transparent communication with clients and strategic partners. In an environment where international agreements can directly impact operational capacity, efficiency in route, cargo, and compliance management becomes as critical as the operation itself. Companies that adopt a proactive and flexible approach will be better prepared to face these changes and ensure continuity in cross-border transport and logistics services.