Mexico's aviation sector reached impressive heights in 2024, registering a record 119.5 million passengers on both domestic and international flights, according to information released by the Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora. This milestone reflects the strong air connectivity within the country and the integral relationship between tourism and air transport.
Data from the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) revealed significant figures, with 57.9 million passengers traveling on international flights, marking a notable growth of 5.8% compared to 2023 and a staggering 20.9% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Meanwhile, domestic flights accounted for 61.5 million passengers, indicating solid growth and connectivity across Mexico's extensive air travel network.
"This reflects the strength of air connectivity in Mexico, as well as its tourism sector, since tourism and air transport maintain a close relationship," Rodríguez Zamora said, emphasizing the positive effects on the economy.
The Secretary highlighted how air transport plays a key role not only by facilitating travel but also as a significant source of employment. With the aviation industry recovering and continuing to expand post-pandemic, it attracts tourists eager to explore new destinations, thereby boosting local economies through increased tourist spending.
Looking at airline performances, Mexican airlines Aeroméxico and Volaris led the way with 13.6 million passengers on international flights, representing an increase of 11.4% from the previous year and 37.8% compared to 2019 numbers. Rogers Zamora noted the vitality of this upward trend, pointing out the outstanding efforts of airline workers who contributed to the overall positive travel experience.
On the larger scale of international bonding, American Airlines and United Airlines topped the charts among U.S. carriers, transporting 13.7 million passengers during the same period, also reflecting a growth rate of 5.8% year-over-year, and 49.4% when compared to 2019.
Among domestic carriers, Viva Aerobus and Volaris dominated the national flight sector, transporting 43.9 million passengers together, reinforcing their stronghold within the industry. Their performance demonstrates the resilience of the air transport industry and the increasing consumer confidence as travelers return to flying.
Rodríguez Zamora reiterated her appreciation for the consistent quality of service provided by airlines, stating, "Airlines and their collaborators are committed to quality and service, key factors for the travelers' experience. Their dedication is contributing immensely to Mexico’s appeal as a travel destination.”
The sustained growth of the air transport sector parallels the broader recovery and expansion of tourism following the severe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic experienced by the industry back in 2020. With each passing month, as international and domestic travel metrics continue to climb, Mexico positions itself as a central player on the global aviation stage.
By the end of the year, the aviation sector is expected to have played an even more instrumental role within the national economy, fostering connectivity, enhancing tourism opportunities, and continuing to attract millions of travelers worldwide. Already, the positive outlook is clear, marking the transformative potential of the aviation sector as both tourism thrives and the economy rebounds to pre-pandemic enthusiasm.