Delta-Aeromexico Partnership Gets Reprieve After Termination Order is Dismissed

A U. S. appeals court has ruled in favor of Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico, allowing their immunized joint venture to continue. The decision comes after the Department of Transportation attempted to end the pact, citing concerns over the Mexico City market. However, the court found that the DOT's focus on this specific market rather than a broader U. S. -Mexico market analysis was the basis for the termination order. As a result, the joint venture and its antitrust immunity remain in effect, allowing the airlines to continue providing enhanced connectivity and increased competition for customers traveling between Mexico and the United States. The partnership has enabled the airlines to add dozens of new routes, including flights from Mexico City to Phoenix, Raleigh-Durham, and Tampa. Delta and Aeromexico's combined flight schedule would represent the second-largest share of seats between the U. S. and Mexico, with reciprocal loyalty benefits for Delta SkyMiles members and Aeromexico Rewards members.