Mexico Regains FAA’s Category 1 Aviation Rating After Over Two-Year Downgrade

Mexico has successfully regained its Category 1 aviation rating from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), marking a significant achievement after being downgraded to Category 2 for more than two years. The restoration of the highest safety rating is a result of close collaboration between civil aviation authorities in both countries, according to the FAA.

During the period when Mexico held a Category 2 rating, Mexican airlines were prohibited from initiating new routes to the United States and engaging in new codeshare flight partnerships. However, it’s worth noting that existing flights were not impacted by the downgrade.

The news of Mexico’s return to Category 1 has been met with enthusiasm from the country’s airlines and aviation groups, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Aeromexico, one of Mexico’s prominent airlines, expressed its satisfaction with the development, stating, “The return to Category 1 allows us to reinforce this connectivity with one of our most important markets.”

Before the downgrade, Mexican airlines held a substantial 35% share of cross-border flights. However, since the downgrade, this market share had dwindled by approximately half.

This achievement holds significance for Mexico’s aviation industry, as it not only enhances safety standards but also paves the way for increased connectivity and collaboration with the United States, one of its vital aviation markets.