Delta, Aeroméxico Appeal Ruling to End Joint Venture: Aero Week

This week in aerospace news: Delta Air Lines and Aeroméxico have appealed a US order to dissolve their joint venture. IATA warned that continued aircraft production delays could cost the industry over US$11 billion in 2025 and defended low-cost carriers following criticism from United’s CEO. Mexico City International Airport’s renovation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached 15% completion. In innovation, Skyfly received FAA clearance to begin Axe VCA eVTOL test flights in the United States. Meanwhile, Boeing is nearing EU antitrust approval for its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems.

More news below:

Aeroméxico Tops Global Punctuality Rankings in September 2025

Aeroméxico was recognized as the world’s most punctual airline in September 2025 by Cirium, achieving an On Time Performance (OTP) rate of 91.80%. The Mexican carrier operated 14,366 flights during the month, with a 99.98% tracking rate and 99.95% of scheduled flights completed without cancellations—rising from second place in August to the top position.

IATA Warns 2025 Aircraft Delays May Hit US$11 Billion in Losses

Ongoing disruptions in aircraft production are projected to cost the aviation industry over US$11 billion in 2025, according to the study “Restarting the Commercial Aircraft Supply Chain” by The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and consulting firm Oliver Wyman. 

Mexico City Airport Renovation for 2026 World Cup Reaches 15%

The Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is undergoing a major MX$8.5 billion (US$460 million) renovation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. AICM General Director Juan José Padilla said the project is currently 15% complete and is expected to reach 70–80% progress by the tournament’s start on June 11, 2026.

Puerto Vallarta Gains Ground With Canadian Tourists

Puerto Vallarta is solidifying its position as a favorite destination for Canadian travelers, boosted by rising visitor numbers, new air routes, and a major sustainable airport modernization project.

Delta, Aeroméxico Challenge US Order to End Joint Venture

Delta Air Lines and Aeroméxico have filed a legal challenge against the US government’s order to dissolve their joint venture coordinating US–Mexico flights, arguing that compliance would impose significant operational and financial burdens. The carriers submitted their petition on Oct. 9 to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, seeking a stay to delay enforcement of the Jan. 1 deadline while the court reviews the case.

Skyfly Receives FAA Clearance for Axe VCA eVTOL Test Flights

Skyfly, a UK-based developer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has received Experimental authorization from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its Axe Vertically Capable Aircraft (VCA) prototype, allowing the company to begin piloted flight testing and customer demonstrations in the United States.

AICM, SSC-CDMX Partner to Boost Airport Security via Data Sharing

The Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and the Ministry of Citizen Security of Mexico City (SSC-CDMX) have signed an agreement to enhance security at the airport and its surrounding areas. The agreement was formalized by SSC-CDMX Chief Pablo Vázquez and AICM Director General Juan Padilla.

AIFA, Mexicana de Aviación Earn “Made in Mexico” Distinction

The state aviation entities Mexicana de Aviación and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) have been awarded the “Made in Mexico” distinction for their contributions to national industry and public service, highlighting their commitment to millions of Mexicans.

Putin Acknowledges Russian System Shot Down Azerbaijan Jet

On Oct. 9, President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that Russian missile defense systems caused the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 on Dec. 25, 2024, killing 38 people. Flight 4K-AZ65, carrying 62 passengers and five crew members, was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Chechnya, when it crashed in western Kazakhstan.

Airbus Projects 3.6% Annual Growth in Aircraft Services to 2044

Airbus projects a 3.6% average annual growth in its aircraft services sector through 2044, anticipating a total market value of US$311 billion per year. The company expects this expansion to support 2.35 million pilots, mechanics, and aviation workers, reflecting rising global air travel demand.

IATA Backs Low-Cost Carriers, Dismissing United CEO’s Critique

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reaffirmed the strength and viability of the low-cost carrier (LCC) model after United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby declared it “dead” and “terrible.” IATA Director General Willie Walsh rejected the claim, emphasizing that low-cost airlines remain essential and continue expanding globally.

GE Aerospace’s FlightPulse App Reaches 60,000 Pilots, 42 Airlines

GE Aerospace’s flight data monitoring application, FlightPulse, has expanded rapidly over the past year, increasing its registered pilot base from 40,000 to more than 60,000, with expectations to surpass 70,000 by the end of 2025, according to the company. Launched in 2017, FlightPulse is now used commercially by 42 airlines, including Qantas, Delta Air Lines, and NetJets, helping pilots evaluate performance across multiple metrics to enhance efficiency and safety.

Boeing’s US$4.7 Billion Spirit Deal Set for EU Antitrust Approval

Boeing is expected to secure European Union antitrust approval for its US$4.7 billion acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, according to sources cited by Reuters. To address competition concerns, Spirit may need to sell certain businesses.