Aviation Routes Blocked Affecting North American Travel

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Route Cancellations: The U.S. DOT blocked 13 U.S.-Mexico air routes, affecting major Mexican carriers like Viva Aerobus, Volaris, and Aeroméxico.
  • Reason for Action: The DOT alleges that Mexico violated a 2015 bilateral air transport agreement by canceling U.S. carrier slots and relocating cargo operations at Mexico City’s main airport.
  • Airline Response: Viva Aerobus and Volaris have stated they are working with authorities to find a solution and minimize disruption for thousands of affected passengers.
  • Government Opposition: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has opposed the DOT’s decision and plans to initiate a high-level diplomatic meeting with the U.S. Secretary of State

Mexican airlines Viva Aerobus and Volaris have issued responses after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) blocked 13 current or planned routes to the United States. The DOT’s decision, announced on Tuesday, cited alleged violations of the 2015 bilateral air transport agreement between the two countries.

Viva Aerobus submitted comments warning that the cancellations would disrupt the travel plans of numerous passengers, particularly during the upcoming holiday season. The low-cost carrier stated it is actively communicating with both Mexican and U.S. authorities to understand the scope of the order and is working to support its customers. Viva Aerobus expressed confidence in diplomatic dialogue to find a resolution that minimizes the impact on travelers. The routes specifically disapproved for Viva Aerobus included service from Felipe Ángeles International Airport near Mexico City to nine U.S. cities, with flights originally scheduled to start in November.

Volaris, which had its planned Mexico City to Newark route scrapped, made a similar public statement. The airline affirmed its commitment to maintaining air connectivity between Mexico and the U.S. and is engaging with the Mexican Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation to prevent future disruptions to the Mexican air transport sector. Mexico’s flag carrier, Aeroméxico, also had routes to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and two cities in Texas canceled, but has not yet provided comment. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly opposed the DOT’s action and plans to seek a meeting with the U.S. Secretary of State to address the issue.