The Airforwarders Association (AfA) says it is concerned by the US government’s withdrawal of 13 routes operated by Mexican airlines, warning that it will reduce air cargo capacity between two of North America’s largest trading partners.
It follows an announcement by US Transportation Secretary, Sean Duffy, that prevents several Mexican carriers from operating passenger flights – with bellyhold cargo capacity – into the US.
Earlier, the US Transportation Department (DOT) ordered Delta Air Lines to end its joint venture with Aeromexico – in which the US carrier holds a 20% stake – citing a number of actions by the Mexicans government, including restrictions on freighter operations at Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport and slot confiscations and restrictions on aircraft movements.
AfA executive director, Brandon Fried, 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.”
