PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) – After approximately 29 months under the shadow of demotion, the Mexican aeronautical authority has proudly reclaimed its Category 1 status in air safety. The momentous announcement came on Wednesday when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) handed the certification to Mexico.
Sources from the agency informed El Financiero that FAA auditors convened earlier today at the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) headquarters to relay the decision to the Mexican representatives. The meeting, which is currently underway, sees the presence of officials from the AFAC, dignitaries from the United States embassy in Mexico, and the AFAC’s director, Enrique Vallín.
The return to Category 1 has been a long time coming for Mexico. Despite being demoted for over two years, the aeronautical authority met the safety requisites, aligning with global norms. However, it should be noted that while they complied, it wasn’t in a comprehensive manner.
The Struggle to Category 1
The FAA decided to downgrade Mexico in May 2021 after two years of rigorous audits of the nation’s aviation safety standards. This relegation to Category 2 status meant that Mexican airlines were barred from introducing new routes to the U.S. Furthermore, it prohibited integrating new aircraft into flights bound for the United States.
The Mexican Congress passed a pivotal law in April to regain the esteemed status. This legislation modified the structural configuration of the Aeronautical Authority, AFAC, a crucial step and one of Mexico’s prerequisites for achieving the rating reinstatement.
It’s crucial to understand that the FAA’s audits are specifically tailored to determine if countries possess robust aviation regulations and, more importantly, the capability to implement them efficiently. The International Civil Aviation Organization, a subsidiary of the United Nations, institutes these rigorous standards. Notably, this wasn’t the first instance of such a downgrade for Mexico. Back in 2010, the FAA had previously downgraded the nation. Fortunately, that demotion was short-lived, with Mexico regaining its status within months.
This recent reinstatement is a testament to Mexico’s persistent efforts to enhance and uphold aviation safety, paving the way for its aeronautical endeavors’ brighter, safer future.
PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) - After approximately 29 months under the shadow of demotion, the Mexican aeronautical authority has proudly reclaimed its Category 1 status in . . .
