Mexico Air Travel Grows 5% Despite US Demand Dip

This week in aerospace news: Aeroméxico, Viva, and Volaris collectively transported 41.3 million passengers in the first half of 2025, marking a 5.08% year-on-year increase. International airlines adjusted their networks away from the United States due to softer demand from Europe and Canada, while domestic air travel in Mexico continued to grow.

Meanwhile, Bryan Bedford began a five-year term as FAA chief, with a focus on safety reforms, and space startups secured US$3.1 billion in Q2 funding, driven by momentum in the defense sector.

More news below:

Advanced Air Filtration to Boost Aerospace Safety

“The main challenge is willingness. When the interest is genuine — when companies properly implement systems, maintain them, and ensure continuity — the results are evident. These are the companies that manage to stay in the supply chain and expand their role in the industry”, says Luis Lince, General Manager of Filtermist. 

Space Startups Attract US$3 Billion in 2Q25 Amid Defense Boost

Global investment in space startups reached US$3.1 billion in 2Q25, up from US$2 billion in the previous quarter, according to a report by venture capital firm Seraphim Space. The surge is attributed to increased US defense spending and growing investor confidence in national security-related space ventures.

Delta Bypasses US Tariffs by Registering Airbus Jets Abroad

Delta Air Lines has adopted an unconventional strategy to avoid US tariffs on European-built Airbus aircraft: stripping engines and routing deliveries through third countries. Under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, new European aircraft entering the United States face a 10% tariff. By registering aircraft first in countries like Japan, Delta reclassifies them as “used” upon entry, thereby circumventing the duty. For example, the Airbus A350-900 (N528DN) was initially registered in Tokyo before joining Delta’s US fleet.

Mexico’s Top Airlines Carry 41.3 Million Passengers in 1H25

Aeroméxico, Viva, and Volaris transported a combined total of 41.3 million passengers during the first half of 2025, representing a 5.08% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to official traffic reports submitted by the carriers.

ASSA Union Prevails at Aeroméxico Connect, STIA Objects

The Union Association of Flight Attendants of Mexico (ASSA) secured the majority of votes in the recent union representation election at Aeroméxico Connect (Aerolitoral), winning 304 out of 378 ballots cast. The vote took place between June 30 and July 11, 2025, following a mandate from the Federal Labor Court of Collective Affairs in Mexico City.

NASA to Cut 2,145 Senior Roles Amid Budget Pressures

NASA is preparing to reduce its workforce by approximately 2,145 senior-ranking employees, according to internal documents cited by Politico. The move is part of a broader effort to downsize under fiscal pressure, targeting civil servants in GS-13 to GS-15 roles—positions that include many of the agency’s senior-level staff.

Airlines Cut US Flights, Boost Mexico Capacity in Early 2025

International airlines reduced flights to the United States by 1% during the first five months of 2025, while passenger traffic to Mexico rose by 2.9%, according to data from the US International Trade Administration and Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism. A decline in US-bound travel from Europe and Canada has prompted carriers to shift capacity to Mexico’s busiest airports.

Delta Restores 2025 Outlook, Eyes US$4 Billion Free Cash Flow

Delta Air Lines has reinstated its full-year 2025 earnings guidance, becoming one of the first major US corporations to resume forward-looking financial projections amid ongoing economic uncertainty. The company now expects earnings per share (EPS) between US$5.25 and US$6.25, and free cash flow between US$3 billion and US$4 billion. Delta had withdrawn its original guidance in April, citing trade-related uncertainty and macroeconomic volatility.

Edinburgh Airport Drops 100ml Liquid Limit with 3D Scanners

Edinburgh Airport has officially removed the 100ml liquid limit for hand luggage following the installation of eight new 3D CT scanners and two additional security lanes. This infrastructure upgrade, part of a £24 million (US$32.6 million) investment, enables passengers to carry liquids in containers of up to two liters through security without removing them from their bags.

Bedford Confirmed as FAA Chief, Flags Safety Concerns

The US Senate has confirmed Bryan Bedford as the new Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), launching a five-year term during a critical period of transformation for the agency. Bedford, a former CEO of Republic Airways and an experienced pilot, will oversee the FAA’s modernization process, backed by an initial US$12.5 billion investment recently approved by Congress.