Introduction to the New Era of Budget Air Travel in Mexico
December 26, 2023 marked a turning point in the Mexican airline industry with the historic flight of the first aircraft of the new Mexicana de Aviación airline, resurrected from bankruptcy over a decade ago. The flight, from the new Felipe Ángeles airport north of the capital, ushered in an era of increased competition in the budget air transport industry.
Birth of a unique low-cost carrier
The Sublime Departure of the 737
In a ceremony that honors aeronautical traditions, the Boeing 737 of the renewed Mexicana de Aviación, was solemnly christened by the water jets of fire-fighting engines, celebrating its first air journey.
An Irresistible Offer
With an aggressive fare strategy, the new airline run by the Mexican army is starting operations with fares starting from 389 Mexican pesos, or around 20 francs, an offer that defies the established competition in the country.
Change direction
As the weather did not spare the inaugural flight, the planned itinerary to Tulum was adjusted, leading the aircraft to land in Merida to guarantee passenger safety. An adjustment that demonstrates the flexibility and responsiveness of the new airline.
The rebirth of a national symbol
Heritage Investment
Last August, the government finalized the acquisition of Mexicana de Aviación for 815 million pesos (41.1 million francs), bringing the former icon under state control.
Military Management
Led by the Olmeca-Maya-Mexica group, this return marks the army's move into the management of strategic infrastructures. A move strongly supported by the current president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who is banking on this direction to eradicate corruption.
A New Airport for a New Company
Mexicana de Aviación has been allocated the brand-new AIFA airport, inaugurated by the President himself, as its point of departure, with the aim of reducing the saturation of the old international airport.
The Role of the Army in the Modernization of Mexico
Fighting Corruption at All Levels
President López Obrador, whose term ends in 2024, has not hesitated to give the armed forces responsibility for major civilian projects, seeing this as an effective way of preventing malfeasance.
A Changing Airline Market
With this expansion of the Mexican airline portfolio, the company joins Aeroméxico and the two other low-cost players, Volaris and Viva Aerobus, now making up the competitive landscape of low-cost aviation in Mexico.
All in all, this new development is a cornerstone in the history of Mexican civil aviation, and of strategic interest in view of the army's growing role in key sectors.
Source: Agence France-Presse (AFP)
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