Claudia Sheinbaum's Aerospace Agenda

Claudia Sheinbaum Prado, Mexico’s president-elect, has outlined several proposals for the aerospace industry during her campaign, focusing on expanding airport infrastructure, strengthening national security via satellite technology, and enhancing the performance of the state-owned airline, Mexicana de Aviación, as well as other state-owned enterprises related to airport operations. The key initiatives presented by Sheinbaum are as follows:

Sheinbaum’s plan emphasizes the consolidation of the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) project. This airport, under development as a major hub, is central to her strategy for modernizing the nation’s aviation infrastructure. The project aims to alleviate congestion at Mexico City's primary airport and serve as a catalyst for regional economic development.

The document "100 Steps Towards Transformation" outlines the completion of Phase 2 of the AIFA as a significant aspect of the plan. This expansion will enable the airport to handle 700,000 tons of cargo and more than 80 million passengers annually. It will feature 68 fixed positions and 39 remote positions for aircraft operations, significantly boosting the airport’s operational capacity.

Sheinbaum also prioritizes the expansion of several regional airports. The airports in Tamuin, Tepic, Torreon, Lazaro Cardenas, and Puerto Escondido are slated for significant upgrades. Additionally, there will be comprehensive improvements to the Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City (AICM). These upgrades are expected to push the aviation industry's capacity to move over 160 million passengers annually and more than 1.2 million tons of cargo. 

To accomplish these goals, the Sheinbaum administration plans to strengthen state-owned aerospace companies such as ASA, GAFSACOMM, CASIOPEA, and GATM. These companies are vital to the construction, development, and operation of airports across Mexico. Enhancing their capabilities will be critical to supporting the country's aviation infrastructure growth. This will be supported by investments in Air Navigation Services in Mexican Airspace (SENEAM) to ensure its proper functioning. 

Additionally, the state-owned airline Mexicana de Aviación is set to receive substantial support and performance enhancements under Sheinbaum's administration. The goal is to improve the airline's operations and expand its market share.

In the space sector, Sheinbaum plans the launch of a new satellite to improve communication capabilities and strengthen national security and technological sovereignty.

Finally, Sheinbaum proposes the creation of a support and knowledge transfer program to attract nearshoring in the aerospace industry. This program will include training, incentives, and partnerships with educational and technological institutions. "Our goal is to develop a dynamic and innovative ecosystem that adapts local companies to new market demands and emerging technologies," Sheinbaum explained.