Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The shortage of aircraft has emerged as a critical factor contributing to the slowdown in air tourist flows to Puerto Vallarta in 2024, a trend expected to persist through the year's second half. This situation has not only impacted this popular beach destination but has also posed challenges across other Mexican tourist hubs and the global aviation industry.
Aircraft Maintenance and Spare Parts Shortages
One of the main reasons for limiting air routes has been delays in aircraft engine overhauls. This issue has become a global challenge, exacerbated by a lack of spare parts, forcing airlines to keep some planes grounded. These operational constraints have significantly affected airlines' abilities to meet travel demand, leading to fewer available flights to Puerto Vallarta.
At the recent Global Aviation Finance Summit, industry leaders expressed deep concerns over the aircraft shortage. The critical issue of sustainability, usually a primary agenda item, took a backseat as airlines grappled with keeping planes operational amid persistent parts shortages.
Impact on Mexican Aviation Sector
The Center for Aviation (CAPA), a leading authority on global aviation, noted that while the outlook for most Mexican airlines remains favorable heading into 2025, Mexicana, the state airline, faces ongoing struggles. Despite celebrating its first anniversary, Mexicana has cut several routes, including those serving Puerto Vallarta, and has yet to establish a meaningful presence in the domestic market.
Geopolitical and Economic Concerns
CAPA also highlighted potential geopolitical risks that could create uncertainty for the Mexican aviation sector. The looming threat of new tariffs on Mexican products by former U.S. President Donald Trump could impact the U.S. economy and, by extension, tourist flows to Mexican destinations.
Challenges for Major Airlines
Both Viva Aerobús and Volaris are experiencing difficulties with keeping Airbus A320neo family aircraft operational due to issues with Pratt & Whitney turbofan engines. In the fourth quarter of 2024, Volaris had an average of 32 inoperative aircraft, while Viva Aerobús reported an average of 24 idle aircraft in the third quarter.
Despite these challenges, Volaris remains optimistic about growth opportunities in the Mexican market. In an investor presentation in August 2024, the airline emphasized the potential of converting bus travelers to air passengers, representing an addressable market of 72 million travelers in the medium term. Notably, on 55% of Volaris’ routes, buses are the only competition.
Viva Aerobús has also managed to maintain profitability despite the difficulties. The airline reported a 26% year-on-year increase in profits during the third quarter of 2024, totaling $70 million. Additionally, in November 2024, the airline saw a 13% increase in passenger numbers compared to the same month in 2023.
Aeromexico's Expansion Efforts
Aeromexico continues to expand its network despite industry challenges. Seasonal flights from Guadalajara to Orlando, Miami, Las Vegas, and Denver have been launched through its joint agreement with Delta Air Lines. By early 2025, Aeromexico and Delta share 25% of the seat market between Mexico and the United States. American Airlines follows with 20%, United Airlines with 16%, and Volaris with 14%.
Mexicana’s Struggles and Future Plans
According to data from the Ministry of Communications and Transport (SCT), Mexicana held less than 1% of the domestic passenger market between January and November 2024. The airline accounted for only 1% of domestic flight frequencies as of January 2025.
Starting operations with aircraft leased from TAR, Mexicana now has just three Boeing 737-800s. However, the airline expects to receive 20 Embraer E-190 E2 and E-195 E2 jets beginning in May 2025. This fleet expansion is anticipated to stabilize its network after initial operational setbacks.
Global Aviation Outlook
The ongoing aircraft and parts shortages have forced airlines worldwide to extend the operational lifespan of older planes. Industry experts remain cautiously optimistic, hoping that manufacturing bottlenecks will ease and allow airlines to meet growing demand. For Puerto Vallarta and other Mexican tourist destinations, resolving these challenges is essential to sustaining growth in air travel and tourism.
