Mexicana Expands Fleet as AIFA–Tulum Fare Debate Heats Up

Mexicana, the state-operated airline relaunched in 2023, has received its third Embraer E195-E2 as part of a 20-aircraft order from the Brazilian manufacturer. The new jet arrived at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) and will join a fleet scheduled for full delivery by 2027.

The first aircraft was delivered on July 1, followed by the second on Aug. 9. Two additional units are expected by year-end, with seven more in 2026 and eight in 2027, completing the expansion.

“There will be 20 aircraft: ten from the E190 family with 108 seats and ten E195s with 132 seats. With this strategic vision, we expect to achieve a market share of over 4.5% starting in 2028,” said Mexicana Director General Leobardo Ávila Bojórquez.

President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted the milestone on social media, reiterating that the airline aims to offer affordable fares without compromising financial sustainability. “The objective is to fly at lower costs without sacrificing profitability and efficiency,” she stated in July.

However, Mexicana’s pricing strategy has drawn scrutiny. While Ávila claims fares are 20% lower than competitors on the AIFA–Tulum route, independent reviews suggest otherwise. “Mexicana offers fixed prices, including taxes and fees. Monday’s flight is 20% cheaper than any other airline on the same route at similar times,” Ávila emphasized during the aircraft reception.

Yet, price comparisons from industry outlets indicate otherwise. A21 reported Sunday that a round trip on Mexicana’s AIFA–Tulum route cost MX$4,028 (US$237), compared with MX$3,259 (US$190) on Viva for similar dates. Aeroméxico, also serving the route, listed higher prices but operates under a full-service model rather than low-cost.

Ávila also stated the inaugural flight was fully booked: “This first commercial flight is full. There has been a strong response.” However, as of Sunday, the airline’s website still showed seats available for purchase.