The Department of Transportation (DOT) finalized an order on Sept. 15, terminating the Delta and Aeromexico joint venture, with the dissolution taking effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
The DOT noted the airlines can still operate under less integrated agreements, such as codeshares and loyalty program reciprocity.
The antitrust immunity agreement, in place for nearly nine years, enabled the carriers to coordinate schedules, pricing and capacity on U.S.–Mexico routes.
Following the order, Delta Air Lines issued the following statement: “We are disappointed that the Department of Transportation has chosen to terminate its approval of the strategic and pro-competitive partnership between Delta and Aeromexico, a decision that will cause significant harm to U.S. jobs, communities and consumers traveling between the U.S. and Mexico. We are reviewing the Department’s order and considering next steps.”
In its Monday announcement, the DOT stated that ending the joint venture “is necessary because of ongoing anticompetitive effects in U.S.-Mexico City markets that provide an unfair advantage to Delta and Aeromexico.” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the move followed Mexico’s 2022 decision to relocate all-cargo carriers from Mexico City’s main airport.
According to the DOT statement, Delta will also be able to retain its equity stake in Aeromexico and both carriers can maintain all of its existing flying in the U.S.-Mexico market unimpeded.
