The Trump administration is effectively prompting the Mexican government to reinstate air transport contracts that had been repeatedly violated during the Biden presidency, according to a memo. Mexican officials have been urged to “take immediate action” to align with the US-Mexico Air Transport Agreement, a move that follows a series of retaliatory actions from Trump’s Department of Transportation (DOT). This development showcases the Trump administration’s assertive approach with Mexican authorities, aiming for outcomes more favorable to U.S. interests.
The memo states, “We brought President Trump and the Department of Transportation. Mexico must adhere to the US-Mexico air transport agreement, which the Biden administration has failed to uphold.” It goes on to note that, due to the Trump administration’s tough stance, the Mexican government has rapidly taken steps to enhance transparency regarding airport slots in Mexico City and return slots to U.S. carriers that were temporarily withdrawn in 2022.
There’s been no immediate response from the DOT regarding the memo. However, the actions are part of a broader effort by the Mexican government to comply with previous agreements, as shown in documents acquired by the DCNF. Mexican authorities are working to return slots that U.S. airlines had relinquished in 2022, thereby restoring some competitive edge to American companies. Additionally, they appear to be adjusting scheduling guidelines internationally, seemingly opening up cargo operations in the capital.
The background to this is a bilateral air transport agreement signed in December 2015, which took effect in August 2016. The agreement was meant to “substantially increase” trade and travel between the two countries. It aimed to eliminate government restrictions on routes, allowing airlines from both nations to operate freely between U.S. cities and any locations in Mexico, thus facilitating more air travel options.
However, in subsequent years, Mexican officials began violating this agreement, stifling competition and providing major airline competitors with what many believe is an “unfair” advantage in both U.S. and Mexican markets. In 2022, actions were taken by Mexico that included withdrawing airline slots and compelling all American Cargo Airlines to shift operations, according to Trump’s DOT. The following year, a Mexican official announced a law mandating the relocation of operations from Mexico City International Airport to Felipe Angeles International Airport, which disrupted logistics.
In light of these issues, Duffy initiated a series of retaliatory measures against Mexico in July, mandating that Mexican airlines submit schedules to the DOT for all state businesses. He required prior approval for operating charter flights from the U.S. as well. Duffy remarked, “Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg have deliberately allowed Mexico to violate our bilateral aviation agreement. That’s over today. These actions serve as a warning to the U.S., our airlines, and any countries that think they can exploit our market.”
Trump has consistently positioned himself as a tough negotiator, particularly on the international scene, and has been accused of undermining American interests in dealings with Mexico and other nations. Shortly after taking office, he pressured Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to deploy resources at the southern border in exchange for suspending 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico.
