How Trump’s Mexican Flight Limits Could Disrupt LAX Operations

As of July 22, 2025, the United States 🇺🇸 government has introduced new restrictions on Mexican flights, directly affecting Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), airlines, and travelers. These changes are a response to recent Mexican aviation policies and are already causing concern among those who depend on regular travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽. This update explains what has changed, who is affected, what actions are required, and what these developments mean for pending and future travel plans, especially for those using LAX.

Summary of What Changed

On July 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), led by Secretary Sean Duffy, announced new rules for all Mexican airlines operating flights into the United States 🇺🇸. These rules require every Mexican passenger, cargo, and charter airline to submit their flight schedules to the DOT and receive government approval before flying into the country. This is a major shift from previous practice, where airlines could operate flights based on existing agreements and schedules.

Additionally, the DOT is considering ending the antitrust immunity for the Delta Air Lines–Aeromexico partnership. This partnership, which has been in place since 2016, allows the two airlines to coordinate schedules and prices on U.S.–Mexico routes. If the DOT follows through, the order would take effect in October 2025, unless legal challenges or negotiations change the timeline.

Who Is Affected

These changes impact several groups:

• Travelers using Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): LAX is a major hub for flights between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽. Many travelers rely on direct flights for family visits, business trips, and vacations.
• Mexican airlines: All Mexican airlines, including passenger, cargo, and charter carriers, must now get approval for every flight into the United States 🇺🇸.
• Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico: Their joint venture is under threat, which could affect the number of flights, ticket prices, and route options.
• Cargo airlines: Companies that ship goods between the two countries will face new rules and possible delays.
• Tourism and business sectors: Reduced flights and higher costs could impact tourism, business travel, and jobs in both countries.

Effective Dates

• Immediate effect: As of July 22, 2025, all Mexican airlines must submit flight schedules and obtain approval before operating flights into the United States 🇺🇸.
• Delta–Aeromexico partnership: The DOT’s order to end antitrust immunity is set to take effect in October 2025, pending further review and possible legal action.

Required Actions

For those affected by these changes, here’s what needs to be done:

Mexican Airlines:
– Submit flight schedules: All Mexican airlines must send detailed flight schedules to the U.S. DOT for review.
– Obtain approval: Airlines cannot operate flights into the United States 🇺🇸 without explicit approval from the DOT.
– Ongoing compliance: Airlines must continue to follow these rules until the U.S. government is satisfied with Mexico’s treatment of U.S. carriers.

Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico:
– Prepare for possible changes: Both airlines are working together to respond to the DOT’s order and are expected to challenge it in court and through regulatory appeals.
– Monitor partnership status: The future of their joint venture is uncertain, and they must prepare for possible changes to their route network and pricing.

Travelers:
– Check flight status: Travelers should regularly check with airlines and LAX for updates on flight schedules, cancellations, or changes.
– Plan for higher prices: Reduced flight options may lead to higher ticket prices and less flexibility.
– Stay informed: Use official sources like the U.S. Department of Transportation and LAX’s official website for the latest information.

Cargo Airlines and Businesses:
– Adjust logistics: Companies that rely on air cargo between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽 should prepare for possible delays and increased costs.
– Monitor regulatory updates: Stay in touch with industry associations and government agencies for new rules and guidance.

Background and Reasons for the Change

The U.S. government’s actions are a direct response to Mexico’s airport policies. In 2023, Mexico’s government required airlines to move operations from the busy Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) in Mexico City to the newer Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), which is about 30 miles outside the city. U.S. officials believe this move violates the 2015 U.S.–Mexico Air Transport Agreement, which was designed to ensure fair access for airlines from both countries.

U.S. officials argue that Mexico’s policy restricts access for U.S. airlines and gives Mexican carriers an unfair advantage. They point out that Mexico also took away flight slots from U.S. airlines and forced cargo carriers to move, which has disrupted business and travel.

Mexico’s government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, says the changes were needed for safety and efficiency. They argue that the old airport was too crowded and risky. President Sheinbaum has dismissed the idea of U.S. sanctions and says her government has not received formal notice from the United States 🇺🇸.

Quantitative Impact on LAX and U.S.–Mexico Travel

The numbers show just how important flights between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽 are:

• Over 40 million passengers traveled between the two countries in 2024, making Mexico the top international destination for U.S. travelers.
• Nearly 25 million Americans visited Mexico last year, with LAX serving as a major gateway for these trips.
• LAX-specific impact: The new restrictions could mean:
  • Fewer direct flights from LAX to Mexican destinations, reducing convenience for travelers.
  • Higher ticket prices due to less competition and fewer available seats.
  • Loss of nearly two dozen joint Delta–Aeromexico routes, which would reduce options for LAX travelers.
• Economic consequences: Delta and Aeromexico estimate that ending their partnership could put $800 million to $1 billion in yearly economic benefits at risk. This includes tourism spending and jobs in both countries.

Stakeholder Positions

Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico: Both airlines argue that the U.S. government’s actions unfairly punish private companies for decisions made by governments. They say these changes will hurt consumers, reduce jobs, and weaken competition on transborder routes. The airlines are preparing a joint response and are expected to fight the order in court and through regulatory appeals.

Travelers: Many passengers at LAX are worried about fewer flight choices and higher prices. Some are concerned about how this will affect family visits, vacations, and business trips.

Cargo Airlines: The Cargo Airline Association supports the U.S. measures. They argue that Mexico’s forced relocation of cargo operations has raised costs for American businesses and disrupted supply chains.

Procedural Details

The new rules are clear and strict:

• All Mexican airlines must:
  • Submit detailed flight schedules to the U.S. DOT.
  • Obtain explicit approval for every passenger, cargo, and charter flight into the United States 🇺🇸.
  • Continue to follow these rules until the U.S. is satisfied with Mexico’s treatment of U.S. airlines.
• Delta–Aeromexico partnership:
  • The DOT is reviewing whether to end the antitrust immunity that allows these airlines to coordinate schedules and prices.
  • A final decision is expected by October 2025, but legal challenges could delay or change the outcome.

Implications for Pending Applications and Future Travel

If you have already booked a flight between LAX and Mexico 🇲🇽, or are planning to do so, here’s what you need to know:

• Pending flights: If your flight is operated by a Mexican airline, it may be subject to new approval requirements. Check with your airline for updates.
• Future bookings: There may be fewer flights available, and prices could rise. Book early and be flexible with your travel dates if possible.
• Delta–Aeromexico routes: If the partnership ends, some routes may be canceled or changed. Travelers should watch for updates from both airlines.
• Cargo shipments: Businesses should expect possible delays and higher costs for air cargo between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

This dispute is adding tension to U.S.–Mexico trade relations. It could spill over into other areas, such as tariffs and infrastructure projects. If the restrictions continue or become stricter, LAX could see a long-term drop in flights to Mexican destinations, affecting both leisure and business travel.

The situation is still developing. Both governments, airlines, and industry groups are negotiating and lobbying for a solution. There is also a chance of further retaliatory measures from either side, which could make things even more complicated for travelers and businesses.

Key Takeaways for LAX Travelers and Stakeholders

• Expect fewer direct flights to Mexico 🇲🇽 from LAX, especially if the Delta–Aeromexico partnership ends.
• Prepare for higher fares and less flexibility in travel plans.
• Monitor official channels for updates, as the situation may change quickly.
• Businesses should review logistics and prepare for possible delays or increased costs for cargo shipments.

What Should Travelers and Businesses Do Now?

• Check flight status regularly: Airlines may change schedules or cancel flights with little notice.
• Book early: With fewer flights, seats may sell out faster and prices may rise.
• Stay flexible: Be ready to adjust travel dates or routes if needed.
• Follow official updates: Use resources like the U.S. Department of Transportation and LAX’s official website for the latest news.
• Contact airlines directly: For the most accurate information about your flight, reach out to Delta Air Lines, Aeromexico, or your chosen carrier.

Official Resources and Contacts

For more information and the latest updates, use these official resources:

• U.S. Department of Transportation
• LAX Traveler Information
• Delta Air Lines
• Aeromexico
• Mexico’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation

Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that travelers and businesses should stay alert and be ready for more changes in the coming months. The fate of the Delta–Aeromexico partnership is especially important for LAX, as it could directly affect the number of available flights, ticket prices, and overall convenience for those traveling between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The new restrictions on Mexican flights are already changing the way people travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽, especially through Los Angeles International Airport. With immediate requirements for Mexican airlines to get approval for every flight, and the possible end of the Delta–Aeromexico partnership, travelers and businesses face uncertainty.

To manage these changes:

• Stay informed: Use official government and airline websites for the latest information.
• Plan ahead: Book flights early, consider alternative routes, and be flexible with travel plans.
• Monitor legal and regulatory updates: The situation could change quickly based on court decisions or new negotiations.
• Contact airlines for help: If you have questions about a specific flight or booking, reach out directly to the airline.

By following these steps and keeping up with official updates, travelers and businesses can better prepare for the ongoing changes at LAX and in U.S.–Mexico air travel. The coming months will be important for everyone who depends on these vital connections, and staying proactive is the best way to handle the uncertainty.

Learn Today

Department of Transportation (DOT) → U.S. federal agency regulating transportation including airline policies and flight approvals.
Antitrust immunity → Legal protection allowing airlines to coordinate schedules and pricing without violating competition laws.
Flight schedule approval → Requirement for airlines to submit and get government authorization before operating flights.
Joint venture → Partnership between airlines to coordinate services like pricing and scheduling on shared routes.
Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) → Mexico City’s main airport affected by relocation policies impacting U.S.–Mexico flights.

This Article in a Nutshell

New U.S. flight restrictions require Mexican airlines to get approval before flying into the U.S., risking LAX flight reductions. The Delta–Aeromexico partnership may end in October 2025, threatening routes and raising prices. Travelers and businesses face uncertainty, urging close monitoring and flexible planning amid evolving regulations and future legal actions.
— By VisaVerge.com