Source: The Points Guy
Summary
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit ruled that Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico can continue their joint venture, which provides antitrust immunity. The Department of Transportation had sought to end the partnership in 2024, citing a narrow focus on the Mexico City market. The decision allows the airlines to maintain coordinated schedules, pricing, and service options. The joint venture covers the U.S.-Mexico market, the largest international market by seats. Delta and Aeromexico added multiple new routes, including to Phoenix, Raleigh-Durham, and Tampa. The partnership also includes reciprocal loyalty benefits for SkyMiles and Aeromexico Rewards members.
Our Reading
The escape is carefully planned.
Airlines coordinate schedules and routes, offering more options for travelers between the U.S. and Mexico.
New flights connect cities like Phoenix, Raleigh-Durham, and Tampa to Mexico City.
Loyalty programs reward frequent travelers with reciprocal benefits.
The trip is organized, not spontaneous — a break that requires a ticket and a plan.
Author: Evan Null
Delta and Aeromexico’s Joint Venture
Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico have maintained their joint venture after a U.S. appeals court ruled in their favor. The decision allows the airlines to continue their partnership, which provides antitrust immunity and enhances connectivity between the U.S. and Mexico. The Department of Transportation had attempted to end the pact in 2024, citing a narrow focus on the Mexico City market. The court found that the DOT had not conducted a broad U.S.-Mexico market analysis, as was done in 2016 when the partnership was first approved.
Enhanced Connectivity and Service
The joint venture enables Delta and Aeromexico to offer a broader network, more convenient service options, and increased competition for travelers. The partnership allows for coordinated scheduling, pricing, and joint sales, which can lead to more flights and routes than would be possible without the collaboration. Since the partnership began a decade ago, the airlines have added dozens of new routes, including from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), and Tampa International Airport (TPA).
Market Share and Competition
Delta and Aeromexico’s joint venture represents the second-largest share of seats between the U.S. and Mexico. According to schedule data from aviation analytics firm Cirium, the partnership holds just under 20% of the market, compared to American Airlines’ 20% and Volaris’ 19%. The partnership includes reciprocal loyalty benefits for Delta SkyMiles members and Aeromexico Rewards members, enhancing the value for frequent travelers.
Previous Challenges and Resumption
The partnership faced challenges when the Federal Aviation Administration downgraded Mexico’s safety rating to Category 2 in 2021, forcing Delta to suspend its codeshare and coordination with Aeromexico. The pact resumed in 2023 after Mexico was returned to a Category 1 rating. The recent court decision ensures the joint venture can continue without interruption, allowing the airlines to maintain their expanded network and service offerings.
Impact on Travelers and the Industry
The continuation of the Delta-Aeromexico joint venture benefits travelers by providing more flight options, better connectivity, and enhanced loyalty rewards. It also strengthens competition in the U.S.-Mexico market, offering more choices for passengers. The decision highlights the importance of regulatory considerations in airline partnerships and the impact of such decisions on both airlines and customers. As the travel industry evolves, such collaborations play a key role in shaping the future of air travel between the U.S. and Mexico.
