U.S. Ban on Mexican Flights Threatens Key Air Cargo Capacity
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has expressed serious concerns over the U.S. government's decision to cut 13 flight routes operated by Mexican airlines. This action is expected to significantly reduce air cargo capacity and disrupt vital supply chains between the United States and Mexico, two of North America's largest trading partners.
Impact on Freight Capacity
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced last week that certain Mexican carriers will no longer be allowed to operate passenger flights into the U.S., resulting in the loss of substantial belly-hold cargo space. This cargo space is crucial for transporting various goods alongside passengers.
“The loss of these flights won’t just affect passengers; it pulls critical cargo capacity out of the market,” said Brandon Fried, Executive Director of the Airforwarders Association. “Forwarders depend on belly capacity to move everything from critical spare parts to fresh produce and medical supplies. Taking that away will strain supply chains that are already operating at tight margins.”
Growing Importance of Air Cargo
Data from the Department of Transportation shows that the combined air freight value among the U.S., Mexico, and Canada reached $6.1 billion in July 2025, a 22.9% increase from July 2024. This growth underscores the rising significance of air cargo in facilitating cross-border trade.
Call for Policy Dialogue
Brandon Fried urged policymakers to seek solutions that maintain freight connectivity, emphasizing cooperation rather than restricting capacity to avoid further disruption.
Fried called for “dialogue and cooperation rather than capacity restrictions.”
Author's summary: The U.S. ban on Mexican passenger flights threatens to reduce essential air cargo capacity, risking supply chain disruptions and highlighting the urgent need for cooperative policy solutions.