Mexico’s Huge Potential After Category 1 Recertification

Mexico

became, in 2023, the largest Latin American aviation market, surpassing Brazil for the first time in history. Additionally, the North American country has an incredible opportunity to keep growing strongly once the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) publishes the latest IASA audit results and possibly restores Mexico’s Category 1 status.

Huge potential for the country after the possible recertification

On Tuesday, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) held the first day of the Wings of Change Americas event in Mexico City. During this event, the Latin American airline industry gathered to discuss the latest trends and needs in the region. In the case of Mexico, regaining Category 1 status remains the top priority for the airline industry and regulator. Fortunately, the process is reportedly closing in on a successful ending.

Mexico was first downgraded to Category 2 status in May 2021. The downgrade caused a setback for Mexican airlines, as they are unable to launch new routes to the United States, expand their existing codeshare agreements, and use newly received aircraft in services to this country, among other restrictions. The government has been slow to address the multiple issues found by the FAA regulators.