Aeroméxico Adds 737 MAX9s, Boosting Seat Capacity by 83%

Aeroméxico announced plans to replace its Embraer 190 aircraft with Boeing 737 MAX9s, increasing its seat capacity by 83%. This strategic move aims to optimize operations at Mexico City's International Airport (AICM), where space constraints limit growth. The decision aligns with a positive traffic growth report, as the airline transported 25.3 million passengers in 2024.

The Embraer 190s, serving both Aeromexico and its regional brand Connect, will be phased out as part of a broader capacity expansion strategy. These 99-seat aircraft primarily operate domestic routes, comprising 30% of Aeroméxico's flights at AICM between October 2023 and September 2024. The larger Boeing 737 MAX9s, configured with 181 seats—16 in Premier class, 18 in Plus, and the rest in Economy—will better accommodate demand on higher-traffic routes. This upgrade is particularly beneficial as international demand grew by 15.8% in 2024.

The fleet transition also addresses slot constraints at AICM, where upgrading to larger aircraft enables Aeromexico to increase seating capacity without adding flights. "The Boeing 737 MAX provides a flexible, efficient solution, supporting both profitability and capital efficiency," said an industry source familiar with the airline’s goals.

As of September 30, 2024, Aeroméxico’s fleet included 149 aircraft: 22 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, 90 Boeing 737 MAX and 737-800s, and 37 Embraer 190s operated by Connect. Beyond fleet upgrades, the airline reported strong performance in 2024, with a 2.3% passenger increase over 2023, driven by international growth.

Aeroméxico’s financial strength is further supported by its nearly 30-year partnership with Delta Airlines. The airline’s EBITDAR over the past 12 months has doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.