Delta-Aeroméxico Alliance Gets Court Reprieve

A federal appeals court in the United States has provisionally suspended an order from the administration of Donald Trump that required Delta Air Lines and Aeroméxico to dissolve their cross-border alliance by January 1, 2026.

The ruling was issued by a panel of three judges from the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, based in Atlanta, and halts the enforcement of the measure while the legal challenge filed by both airlines is reviewed. The decision provides a respite for the joint venture, which allows for the coordination of routes, fares, and air capacity between Mexico and the United States, and is considered one of the most significant strategic collaborations in the North American market.

Sheinbaum Rejects DOT Decision, Accuses "Other Interests"

President Claudia Sheinbaum described the original resolution from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as unjustified, stating that Mexico has complied with all observations related to the Mexico City International Airport (AICM).

"We do not find any reason for the decision they are making," stated the president, who recalled that international airlines have operated without setbacks following the transfer of cargo to the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) and that no formal complaints exist.

Sheinbaum suggested that behind the DOT's measure "there are other interests," beyond technical or regulatory arguments.

The U.S. Argument: Anticompetitive Advantages

The Trump administration justified the order by indicating that the alliance could generate anticompetitive advantages, stemming from Mexican aviation policies that allegedly benefit the involved airlines.

However, Aeroméxico lamented the decision and emphasized that its cooperation with Delta has strengthened binational connectivity, boosted tourism, and improved options for passengers.

What's Next for the Alliance?

The litigation continues in the courts. In the meantime, Delta and Aeroméxico are analyzing their next legal steps to sustain the partnership, whose continuity is key for the air traffic flow between both countries.

The temporary suspension opens the door for the alliance to potentially be maintained, in a context marked by political tensions, cross-border regulations, and a direct impact on millions of North American travelers.