Mexico City — U.S. antitrust regulators have approved the proposed merger of Mexican airlines Viva Aerobus and Volaris, moving the carriers closer to creating Grupo Mas Vuelos, a combined company that would control more than three-quarters of Mexico’s domestic air market.
The Federal Trade Commission’s approval was issued under the “sua sponte” principle, which allows the agency to act without a formal request from the companies, according to an FTC docket and confirmation from Viva Aerobus.
The merger has already secured clearance in Colombia, leaving Mexico as the last jurisdiction where it remains under review. The country’s antitrust authority is still deliberating, and the airlines expect a decision before the end of 2026.
Grupo Mas Vuelos would also hold about 27% of the binational air market between Mexico and the United States. The combined carrier intends to keep operating the Viva Aerobus and Volaris brands separately for commercial purposes.
The airlines have said the merger aims to reduce operating costs, strengthen their financial position and create growth opportunities that would benefit shareholders. They also plan to expand in the U.S., a market that already generates $1.5 billion in revenue for their businesses.
Under the proposed structure, Volaris would serve as the surviving corporate entity. Each airline would hold 50% of the new company, which is expected to list on the stock exchange, and the board of directors would be restructured.
