In recent years, Mexico’s commercial aviation market has experienced steady growth, surpassing the world average, according to the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA). The ALTA presented its Aviation Insight Mexico analysis, which revealed that in 2023, a record 118.1 million passengers were transported, representing a 10.6 percent increase from the previous year.
Despite this positive trend, challenges remain for the industry’s sustained growth in Mexico. High fees and taxes imposed on the aviation industry contribute to making it one of the most expensive regions in Latin America where passengers pay significantly more in total fees and taxes than other countries. Additionally, there is a lack of investment in airport infrastructure and legal uncertainties surrounding the airline market discourage investment and long-term planning efforts.
The high taxes imposed on international flights also contribute to making Mexico one of the most expensive countries globally when it comes to aviation fees and taxes. The AICM airport use fee has also increased dramatically, becoming one of the highest globally and further adding to the cost burden on passengers.
Infrastructure deficiencies in Mexico contribute to flight congestion at terminals, limiting growth potential for the industry. Legal uncertainties surrounding airline regulations in the country discourage investment and long-term planning efforts by stakeholders such as airlines and airports alike. However, despite these challenges, Executive director of ALTA José Ricardo Botelho emphasized that air transportation provides significant economic benefits for Mexico’s economy by generating employment opportunities and attracting tourists from around the world.
Understanding these challenges and opportunities is crucial for stakeholders to address issues such as high fees, infrastructure limitations, and regulatory uncertainties to support sustainable growth and maximize economic benefits generated by air transportation in Mexico.