Mexico Expands State Control Over Airports and Air Services

Mexico is advancing plans to expand state control of its airspace and airport infrastructure, with both federal and state governments offering new incentives to attract airlines. David Sandoval, deputy director of Grupo Mundo Maya, the military-run airport operator, highlighted incentives such as reduced landing fees, parking charges, and baggage services. He called the new Tulum International Airport a “cherry on top,” noting it is already drawing traffic away from nearby Cancun.

Military-run airports benefit from lower usage tariffs and have been assigned the task of boosting activity at underused and unprofitable regional airports. Eric Mario Barrera of the Mexico City Airport Group said they are working to modernize infrastructure and attract airline partners. He cited Guaymas Airport in Sonora as a challenge due to limited traffic and outdated facilities.

Guaymas is also the focus of a port expansion project launched by outgoing President López Obrador, aimed at transforming it into a key export hub.

Raul Revuelta, CEO of airport operator GAP, noted that most regional airports require at least one million annual passengers to break even and often rely on government subsidies. Despite the financial strain, officials emphasized the importance of connecting underserved communities, a goal private operators have often neglected.

Mexicana, the revived state airline relaunched in 2023, is expected to operate at a loss for nearly a decade. At a recent ceremony, President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized Mexicana’s mission to fly “wherever you are.” Officials are also exploring new public-private partnerships, citing early success in Tepic and Puerto Escondido.