Air Traffic Grows but Is Still Below Expectations

While COVID-19 quarantines are over, the global aviation industry continues to face challenges in getting passengers to fly again. AIFA had 1.4 million passengers in its first year, representing only 3.1% of AICM’s traffic. Meanwhile, Mexico’s aerospace supply chain needs to grow in expertise, talent and technification to capitalize on blooming opportunities.

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Mexico Sees Surge in Air Traffic Demand in the Wake of COVID-19

While COVID-19 quarantines are over, the global aviation industry continues to face challenges in getting passengers to fly again. In Mexico, airlines received little governmental support during the pandemic, but the country’s open border policy allowed the industry to stay afloat and swiftly recover once other countries opened their borders. The country is now seeing a robust recovery of passenger traffic but the industry is still being threatened by both internal and external factors. 

AIFA Saw Fewer Passengers Than Government Expected

In its first year of operation, the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) had 1.46 million passengers, which is less than the 2.5 million expected by the federal government. Furthermore, industry leaders remain skeptical about moving their operations to the capital city’s new airport. The government reported that between March 2022 and March 2023, the number of passengers at AIFA only represented 3.1% of those using the Mexico City International Airport (AICM).

Quest for Aerospace Growth Requires Talent, Technification

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Mexico’s aerospace industry was growing rapidly. However, the outbreak caused massive setbacks for the sector. Today, as the industry rebounds globally and nearshoring becomes increasingly important to Mexico, the local industry is again in a good position to grow. To take advantage of the coming opportunities, Mexico’s aerospace supply chain must grow in expertise and adopt new technologies and certifications.

Interjet Union Challenges Auction of Assets in a Single Lot

Interjet’s union voiced its concerns over the Federal Conciliatory Board’s decision to auction the airline's assets in a single lot, which they argue stops potential buyers from making offers for individual assets. The union plans to file a motion to review previous execution acts, claiming that the decision to auction the company's assets in a single lot directly undermines the workers' right to receive payments. The next auction hearing is set for May 31, 2023.