DOT Terminates Delta–Aeroméxico Joint Venture: What’s Changing, What Isn’t
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The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued its final order to dismantle the Delta–Aeroméxico transborder joint venture effective January 1, 2026. Delta says it’s “disappointed” and is reviewing next steps, but adds that flights continue to operate normally for now.
This decision also removes the pair’s antitrust immunity that has been in place since 2016, meaning the airlines can no longer coordinate pricing or schedules as a single entity on U.S.–Mexico routes once the order takes effect. They can still partner in looser ways—think reciprocal frequent-flyer perks—but the core metal-neutral JV that let them function as one carrier across the border is what’s being unwound.
What Travelers Should Expect
In the near term, no immediate schedule cuts are being announced; Delta has said operations continue as usual while it reviews the order. But as of Jan 1, 2026, the two airlines can’t jointly set fares or coordinate networks the way JV partners do. Expect a gradual shift toward independent scheduling and potentially more head-to-head competition on overlapping routes. Mileage accrual and loyalty reciprocity can remain via standard partnership agreements, but the metal-neutral, revenue-sharing framework that often stabilizes pricing and timing disappears.
The Bigger Picture
Delta and Aeroméxico are SkyTeam partners, and Delta holds a stake in Aeroméxico—relationships that don’t vanish with the JV. What changes is the legal permission to act as one on cross-border flying. That’s a significant reset for a tie-up regulators once approved, and it underscores how airport access and slot governance at MEX have become a flashpoint for U.S.–Mexico aviation policy.
Bottom line
The DOT’s final order ends the Delta–Aeroméxico JV and antitrust immunity on Jan 1, 2026. Expect the partnership to scale back to traditional codeshare-style cooperation and reciprocal perks, while real coordination on fares and schedules winds down. Watch for timetable changes and competitive responses as that deadline approaches.
