Volaris Seeks AFAC Approval to Wet-Lease Seven Jets for Year-End

Volaris has requested temporary authorization from the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) to wet-lease up to seven aircraft for a maximum of 43 days to maintain its year-end schedule. The airline said the measure is necessary to ensure operational continuity during the high-demand December–January period. The Aeronautical Industry Workers’ Union (STIA) publicly supported the request, noting that it “does not represent a risk to the labor rights, job stability or contractual conditions” of its members.

The announcement followed concerns raised by the Mexican College of Pilots and the Pilots’ Union Association, which reported that the carrier planned to resume wet-lease operations beginning Dec. 1. Volaris, led by Enrique Beltranena, responded that three new Airbus aircraft will join its fleet in the coming days, allowing the company to “protect passengers traveling to meet with their loved ones during the holiday season” while maintaining service continuity.

The airline said the request is tied to an increase in scheduled inspections of Pratt & Whitney NEO engines. According to the company, the number of required engine checks in December 2025 and January 2026 is “higher than originally planned,” reducing aircraft availability during a peak travel window. Volaris said the temporary wet-lease solution will allow it to preserve its published schedules.

The carrier added that all flights operated under the wet-lease arrangement will include Volaris crew members. STIA reiterated that the measure complies with existing labor protections and does not alter employment conditions.

Volaris cited the legal framework supporting wet-lease approvals, including Article 83 Bis of the International Civil Aviation Convention, Article 45 of the Civil Aviation Law, Article 4 of its corresponding regulation and mandatory circular CO AV-08.3/20. The airline noted that the procedure has been used by other domestic carriers.

The company said its priorities remain operational safety, reliability, connectivity and consistent service delivery. Pilot associations previously noted that AFAC updated Volaris’ Air Operator Certificate on Nov. 24 to permit the use of wet-lease arrangements, similar to an authorization granted to another airline two years ago.