Mexicana Sees Subsidy Surge Amid Criticism Over Funding Plea

Mexicana experiences a 1,030% increase in subsidies, while experts criticize its plea for additional funding. Felipe Angeles International Airport sees an 81.7% surge in domestic passenger traffic. Across the border, the government allocates US$76 million for airport upgrades and maintenance nationwide.

This is the Week in Aerospace!

AIFA Witnesses 81.7% Growth in Passenger Transit for 1Q24

The Felipe Angeles International Airport (AIFA) experienced a 81.7% surge in domestic passenger traffic in the first quarter of 2024, according to data provided by the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC). During this period, AIFA moved 944,000 people, an increase compared to the same period last year when 519,600 passengers used the airport facilities.

Deployed Satellites Jump 12.4% in 2023 Versus Previous Year

As of the end of 2023, there were a total of 12,597 spacecraft orbiting Earth, including 3,356 inactive satellites. This represents a 12.4% increase in deployed satellites compared to the previous year. The surge in satellite numbers is largely attributed to ambitious projects like SpaceX's Starlink constellation, which has propelled the commercial sector to hold an overwhelming 89% share of all operational satellites, reveals a report by Slingshot Aerospace.

NASA, Mexico to Strengthen Space, Environmental Cooperation

Bill Nelson, Administrator, NASA, and Pamela Melroy, Deputy Administrator, NASA, bolstered collaborative efforts in space exploration and environmental initiatives, reaffirming Mexico and the United States’ shared commitment to scientific progress and planetary stewardship.

Experts Criticize Mexicana de Aviación Funding Plea

The recent request by the Ministry of National  Defense (SEDENA) to the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP) for over MX$20 billion (US$1.1 billion) for aircraft acquisition for Mexicana de Aviación and other purposes has sparked controversy and raised concerns over its legality and financial viability.

FAA Allocates US$76 Million for US Airport Upgrades

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has announced a new allocation of funds totaling US$76.1 million to support 45 airport infrastructure projects across 22 states. These funds originate from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program, which earmarked a total of US$25 billion for airport enhancements.

Mexicana de Aviación Sees 1,030% Surge in Q1 Subsidies

Mexicana de Aviación, the state-owned airline, has experienced a 1,030% increase in subsidies allocated in the first quarter of 2024, according to the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP).