Aiming to reduce the hefty costs associated with international flights in Mexico, the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) has presented two proposals to the federal government. The main concern is the high Tarifa de Uso Aeroportuario (Airport Usage Fee or TUA), which significantly contributes to the expensive airfare in the country.
The first proposal, known as the ‘revenue cap,’ suggests adjusting the TUA based on travel demand. During low seasons, such as off-peak vacation times, the fee would be lowered. Conversely, during peak months like Christmas, Semana Santa (Easter) or summer vacations, the TUA would increase. This model aims to strike a balance between affordable travel and sustainable airport revenue.
ALTA assures that implementing the revenue cap would not lead to a reduction in the federal government’s income from the TUA. Instead, lowering the airport fees would make air travel more affordable, attracting more international tourists and benefiting various sectors of the economy.
According to ALTA’s recent study, Mexico’s TUA ranks among the highest in Latin America, even surpassing fees at some airports in the United States. For instance, the International Airport of Mexico City and Monterrey charge 1,200 pesos per passenger for international flights, whereas Tocumen, Panama, and Bogota, Colombia charge 800 and 820 pesos, respectively.
Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta airports are also among the top ten airports with the highest TUA costs in Latin America, charging 54 and 53 dollars, respectively.
The second proposal involves reducing the TUA for a specific agreed-upon period or indefinitely, in exchange for granting extended concession rights to private companies operating the airports.
ALTA intends to discuss these proposals not only with the federal government but also with relevant associations and lawmakers. They believe that implementing one of these measures will lead to increased revenue and a surge in tourist arrivals to Mexico’s popular destinations.
With reports from Aviación 21 • Contra Línea
