Industry body calls for swift resolution as the decision to prevent Mexican carriers from operating US passenger flights removes valuable freight capacity
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has warned against the reduction in air cargo capacity and of disruption in supply chains following the US government’s withdrawal of 13 routes operated by Mexican airlines.
U.S. Transportation Secretary, Sean Duffy, announced the decision to prevent several Mexican carriers from operating passenger flights into the U.S. last week, removing valuable belly-hold capacity.
But Brandon Fried, AfA executive director, said: “The loss of these flights won’t just affect passengers; it pulls critical cargo capacity out of the market."
“Forwarders depend on belly capacity to move everything from critical spare parts to fresh produce and medical supplies. Taking that away will strain supply chains that are already operating at tight margins.”
Fried urged policymakers to prioritise solutions that safeguard freight connectivity while addressing competition concerns through dialogue and collaboration, rather than capacity restrictions.
“Mexico is one of our most important trading partners, and maintaining efficient air links is critical to keeping goods moving,” added Fried.
“We encourage both governments to find a swift, balanced resolution that supports fair competition without compromising air cargo access.”
The AfA represents hundreds of freight forwarders that depend on stable, predictable international air service to move essential goods, from manufacturing components to consumer products and medical supplies.
In July, the US government placed restrictions on Mexico's air cargo and passenger operations in response to what it said is "abuse" of the 2015 U.S.-Mexico Air Transport Agreement and ongoing anti-competitive behaviour.
The US said the country had not been in compliance with the 2015 U.S.-Mexico Air Transport Agreement since carriers were required to shiift cargo operations from Benito Juarez International Airport, known as Mexico City International Airport (MEX), to Felipe Angeles International Airport (AFIA).
However, Mexico later defended its decision to move cargo operations to AFIA and claimed the airport was running smoothly.
Then in September, the US government ordered Delta & Aeromexico to dissolve their joint venture (JV) following its ongoing disagreement with Mexico.
