Mexicana de Aviación marks its first anniversary of operations, with the airline proudly announcing the transportation of over 382,000 passengers and the completion of 7,217 flights since its relaunch. This milestone is particularly significant as the airline, once shuttered due to bankruptcy, has successfully reestablished itself under the oversight of the Mexican government and the military, offering competitive services to the traveling public.
On December 26, 2023, Mexicana de Aviación resumed operations, aiming to recapture its role as a key player in Mexico’s aviation sector. By the end of its first year, the airline reported having achieved nearly 13% of its ambitious target of 3 million passengers annually by 2027, according to Leobardo Ávila Bojórquez, the airline's director.
"We have seen significant growth, having transported 382,011 passengers and conducting over 7,217 operations, covering more than 6 million kilometers," stated Ávila during the morning briefing held at the Palacio Nacional alongside Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. He emphasized Mexicana's commitment to rekindling connectivity for Mexican travelers.
The airline has focused on accessibility and competitiveness, offering fares up to 20% cheaper than those of private competitors. This strategy has proven beneficial as it has allowed more Mexicans to travel, stimulating economic activity across various regions.
For its first anniversary, Mexicana celebrated with special promotions and onboard festivities, especially on popular routes such as Tijuana, Tulum, and Mérida. The director outlined upcoming plans to expand services, stating, "Next year, we will begin operations to Guadalajara, Mérida, San José del Cabo, and Tulum." This initiative forms part of the airline's ambitious goals for enhanced connectivity.
Ávila also unveiled the airline’s future fleet expansion, noting the acquisition of five Embraer aircraft scheduled for 2025, followed by seven additional planes in 2026 and eight more by 2027. He stressed the new aircraft's potential to support the airline's goal of transporting 5.5 million passengers between 2025 and 2028.
"With the incorporation of these Embraer E190/195 E2 aircraft, we are not just enhancing our capacity; we are also addressing sustainability through advanced technology and efficiency," Ávila added. This procurement will facilitate the airline's projected launch of new domestic and international routes, contributing significantly to the reactivation of Mexico’s travel sector post-pandemic.
The director reflected on the importance of government strategies aimed at boosting domestic consumption, stating, "A través de las propias estrategias del Gobierno federal para incentivar el consumo interno se ha reactivado la economía, y eso ha permitido que mayores mexicanos puedan viajar y tener esa sensación de la conectividad que ofrece Mexicana." This support has been pivotal for Mexicana’s resurgence.
Looking forward, the airline is enthusiastic about achieving its milestones. The aim to acquire 20 new aircraft by 2030 will allow Mexicana de Aviación to target 30% market share within the domestic arena, showcasing its ambition to become a formidable competitor among airlines operating in Mexico.
Avila's commitment to restoring Mexicana de Aviación's legacy as the country’s first airline is resolute. He asserts, "Mexicana avanza de manera firme hacia el futuro y con la incorporación de los aviones Embraer, que son de los 190, 195 de última generación E2." This focus on modern, efficient aircraft will pave the way for improved service offerings and connectivity, thereby enhancing the overall passenger experience.
All these developments signify not only the airline's growth but also its role as part of the broader strategy to strengthen Mexico’s aviation network. By fostering connectivity across regions, Mexicana aims to help energize not just the travel industry but the country's economy as well.
With its first year behind it, Mexicana de Aviación looks forward to scaling new heights, ensuring safety, affordability, and convenience are integral to its operational philosophy and future growth. The aviation community and travelers alike are eager to see how this storied airline continues to evolve and contribute to Mexico's economic and social fabric.
