The United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit has temporarily halted the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) order to force Aeroméxico and Delta Air Lines to unwind their joint venture agreement by January 1, 2026. This decision was made after the carriers filed suit in October, arguing that the mandated dissolution would be operationally and financially burdensome, citing their interconnected operations in the cross-border market.
Both airlines maintain a significant presence in the US-Mexico aviation market, with a combined 20.1% share. Delta and Aeroméxico emphasized that their partnership enhances service and competitiveness, and the court’s decision allows them to continue their collaboration during ongoing legal review. The US government previously found the joint venture to be anti-competitive, citing market distortions stemming from Mexican government actions, which included scheduling restrictions and cargo carrier relocations at Mexico City International Airport.
The Mexican government plans to engage in further discussions with US officials in early December, seeking a resolution to the dispute without resorting to international arbitration. President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo stated that the decrees implemented by the prior administration remain in effect, asserting no breach of the air transport treaty and emphasizing the importance of bilateral cooperation.
Dispute Over Belly Cargo Regulations
In addition, Aeroméxico challenged the US Department of Transportation’s proposed ban on Mexican carriers’ belly cargo transport from Benito Juárez International Airport. Aeroméxico argued that the regulation lacks sufficient evidence of imbalance and could harm market participants. The airline advocates for dispute resolution procedures over unilateral bans, asserting their impact on shippers and consumers.
Entities explicitly referenced in the article include the Mexico City International Airport, Monterrey Mariano Escobedo Airport, airlines such as Aeroméxico, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Aerus. Mentioned aircraft include Airbus A321 and Boeing 737-800 models.
