US Threatens to Block Mexican Flights Amid Growing Airline Competition Dispute

US Warns of Flight Blocks Over Mexico's Airline Policy Disputes

Tensions are rising in the skies between the United States and Mexico, as the U.S. government has issued a strong warning: if Mexico doesn’t change its current approach to airline competition, some Mexican flights to the U.S. could be blocked.

The announcement came from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy during a recent testimony before the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. According to Duffy, Mexico has not upheld certain aviation-related commitments, and the U.S. is now considering taking firm action in response.

At the heart of the issue is Mexico’s treatment of U.S. airlines and cargo carriers. According to Duffy, the Mexican government has been canceling critical flight slots that U.S. airlines rely on to land at key Mexican airports. On top of that, U.S. cargo airlines have reportedly been forced to relocate from Mexico City’s main airport—a move that’s caused major disruption and frustration for American carriers.

“The agreements we have with Mexico were built on mutual respect and fair treatment,” Duffy said. “Unfortunately, Mexico has broken its promise.”

In response, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced new oversight measures. From now on, all Mexican airlines will be required to submit their U.S. flight schedules for prior approval. This includes larger charter flights, which will no longer be automatically greenlit. Essentially, the DOT wants full visibility and control over incoming flights from Mexican carriers.

While no flights have been blocked yet, the warning is clear: if Mexico does not act to fix the ongoing issues, the U.S. is prepared to take further steps, including suspending or revoking parts of the bilateral aviation agreements that currently allow airlines from both countries to operate freely across borders.

These agreements are crucial for maintaining the flow of travel and trade between the U.S. and Mexico. Any restrictions could significantly impact passengers, tourism, cargo shipments, and business ties—especially as both countries are major trading partners with deeply integrated economies.

Mexican officials have not yet issued a public response to the U.S. warning. However, the aviation dispute adds to growing concerns about regulatory changes in Mexico’s aviation sector and their impact on international airlines.

Meanwhile, U.S. airlines and cargo companies are closely watching the situation unfold. Industry leaders are urging both governments to resolve the issue quickly and return to a level playing field.

For now, passengers planning to travel between the U.S. and Mexico shouldn’t expect immediate flight disruptions—but that could change if the dispute escalates.

This development serves as a reminder that even in the age of global air travel, international cooperation can be fragile, and political tensions can sometimes ground more than just planes.