US DOT Revokes 13 Mexico–US Routes, Airlines Respond: Aero Week

This Week in Aerospace News:

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) revoked 13 Mexico–US flight routes over alleged violations of the 2015 Air Transport Agreement, affecting AICM and AIFA. Volaris, Viva, and Aeroméxico have taken measures in response. Meanwhile, Aeroméxico and Delta petitioned to delay ending their joint venture, a process that could extend into 2026.

Bombardier is investing US$18 million in Queretaro to expand aerospace production and create 246 jobs. Airport operators ASUR and OMA posted revenue growth of 17.9% and 8.2%, driven by strong leadership and US investments.

Globally, Embraer warned that US tariffs on Brazil could delay orders, while Airbus expects its freighter fleet to grow 45% by 2045. Boeing reported strong 3Q25 results despite a US$5 billion charge tied to the 777X program.

More news below:

Boeing Sees Strong 3Q25 Performance Despite US$5 Billion Charge

Boeing reported strong revenue and a return to positive cash flow in 3Q25, despite a US$5 billion charge linked to delays in its 777X program. CEO Kelly Ortberg called the results an “important milestone,” while noting the company’s recovery remains a work in progress.

Volaris, Viva, Aeroméxico Respond to US DOT Route Cancellations

Mexican carriers Volaris, Viva, and Aeroméxico are responding to the US Department of Transportation’s (DOT) decision to cancel 13 flight routes between Mexico and the United States, citing violations of the 2015 bilateral Air Transport Agreement. The  news triggered a market reaction, with Volaris shares falling 4.45% to MX$12.02 on the Mexico City Stock Exchange (BMV).

Thales Recognized With “Hecho en México” for Made-in-Mexico Tech

Thales has been awarded the official “Hecho en México” designation, recognizing its products and services designed and manufactured in Mexico. “Receiving the ‘Hecho en México’ label honors the Mexican engineers, researchers, and professionals behind our technological achievements,” said Analicia García, Country Director, Thales Mexico.

Mexico's Aviation Frontier: Forging Connectivity for Growth

Mexico’s aviation and airport system is undergoing a critical transformation to meet rising passenger demand, strengthen connectivity, and enhance competitiveness in logistics and tourism.

US Revokes 13 Mexico Flight Routes Over Alleged Violations

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has revoked approval for 13 routes operated by Mexican airlines between Mexico and the United States, citing ongoing violations of the 2015 Air Transport Agreement. The decision affects flights from Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), effectively suspending current and planned routes “until further notice.”

Airbus Forecasts 45% Global Freighter Fleet Growth by 2045

Airbus projects the global freighter fleet will grow 45% over the next two decades, reaching 3,420 aircraft by 2045, according to its 2025 Cargo Global Market Forecast. The fleet is expected to include 815 existing aircraft and 2,605 new units. Of the additional aircraft, 1,530 will replace older models, while 1,075 will respond to market growth. Airbus noted that “freight transport demand will continue to grow in line with global economic activity and trade development.”

Mexico’s Auto and Aerospace Sectors Navigate Tariffs, Talent Gaps

Mexico’s automotive and aerospace industries are undergoing significant adjustments due to new US tariffs and shifting trade conditions. Between January and September 2025, light vehicle exports fell 0.9%, according to INEGI, while aerospace sector growth slowed to 9%, below post-pandemic averages, according to FEMIA. Tariffs of 25% on vehicles and parts with non-US content, and 50% on steel and aluminum, are reshaping cost structures and prompting companies to rethink supply chains and production strategies.

Embraer Warns US Tariffs on Brazil Could Delay Orders, Add Costs

Embraer is preparing for potential delays and cancellations of aircraft orders if the United States imposes punitive tariffs on Brazil, CEO Francisco Gomes said during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Malaysia.

Key Trends Shaping Air Cargo, Airport Infrastructure in Mexico

As Mexico consolidates its position as a strategic trade hub in the Americas, air cargo emerges as a critical link for high-value and time-sensitive goods. Although it remains a minor component of national freight, representing just 0.12% of Mexico’s total cargo movement in 2023, according to CANACAR, it plays an outsized role in connecting industries, accelerating exports, and ensuring supply chain continuity. Amid the nearshoring wave and regional integration, aviation is becoming indispensable to manufacturing, e-commerce, and cross-border logistics.

ASUR and OMA Post Robust Revenue Gains in Early 2025

Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR) and Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte (OMA) reported total revenue growth of 17.9% and 8.2%, respectively, in the first nine months of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. ASUR, under the leadership of Adolfo Castro Rivas, recorded total revenue of MX$19.4 billion (US$1.05 billion) from January to September, up from MX$16.4 billion a year earlier. OMA also reported revenue growth, attributing it to strategic investments and acquisitions in the United States.

Bombardier Expands Queretaro Site with US$18 Million Investment

Bombardier announced an US$18 million investment in Queretaro, Mexico, aimed at expanding its manufacturing capacity and creating 246 specialized jobs in aerospace component production. The announcement took place during a meeting between company executives and Queretaro Governor Mauricio Kuri González at the state government headquarters.

Aeroméxico, Delta Seek Pause on JV End, Process May Last a Year

Aeroméxico and Delta Air Lines filed a joint motion with the US Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit to suspend a US Department of Transportation (DOT) order requiring them to end their joint venture by Jan. 1, 2026. Analysts and aviation experts said the legal process could take at least a year. The airlines requested the court to pause enforcement until the appeal is resolved.

Aeroméxico, Copa Focus on Expansion and Improved Customer Tech

Aeroméxico and Copa Airlines are boosting investment in network expansion and digital services to enhance passenger connectivity across Latin America, airline executives said during a virtual forum hosted by Marriott International. The session, titled “Latin American Travelers: Trends, Priorities and the Future of Tourism,” explored market behavior and strategies carriers are deploying to attract and retain regional travelers.

IATA Urges Realistic EU SAF Policies as Costs Climb

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned that the European Union’s ReFuelEU Aviation mandate is raising operating costs for airlines without sufficiently increasing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. Speaking at IATA’s World Sustainability Symposium, Director General Willie Walsh called the regulation “not fit for purpose.”

How 3D CAD and Additive Manufacturing Drive Automotive Innovation

“The automotive industry is facing its most transformative decade in more than a century. Electrification, autonomy, digitalization, and sustainability are reshaping how vehicles are designed, manufactured, and sold” says Ricardo Saenz, Business Development, Intellegy.