Mexican airlines can again seek new U.S. services from Mexico City’s two international airports after the U.S. Department of Transportation lifted route restrictions on October 16. For travelers, the decision removes a barrier to future flight choices; it is not itself an announcement that a particular route has started or is available to book.
Which airports are affected?
Mexico’s foreign affairs and transport ministries said the decision concerns Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU), according to their October 16 joint statement.
Those airport codes matter when comparing tickets. A Mexico City destination label alone does not tell you which airport an airline will use. Check each segment’s airport before arranging transfers or onward travel.
Not every restriction has disappeared
Reuters reported on October 16 that DOT would still require Mexican carriers to file schedules for U.S. services and obtain approval for large-aircraft operations. A U.S. official told Reuters that two other orders connected with the dispute remained in force.
The action follows the October 2025 restrictions on expansion from the two airports. It is separate from the FAA’s review of Mexico’s aviation oversight; it should not be described as a new FAA safety-rating upgrade.
What travelers should watch for next
The next useful information is an airline’s confirmed city pair, launch date, operating days and booking availability. Regulatory permission creates an opportunity for service; it does not establish the airline’s timetable or guarantee a lower fare.
Before buying, compare the complete itinerary: airport codes, baggage allowance, change conditions and any ground transfer. If separate tickets involve different airports, allow for the transfer rather than assuming the connection stays within one terminal.
Our Air Canada and United route guide covers a separate Canada–U.S. expansion with announced dates; it is not part of the Mexico decision.
Archive/context: Aeromexico at Guadalajara, November 23, 2024—not Mexico City or a newly approved route. NS777 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0. Resized and compressed to WebP.
