Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico have secured a major legal victory after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit overturned a Department of Transportation (DOT) order that would have terminated the carriers' joint venture.
The ruling overturns the DOT's September 2025 decision to withdraw approval of the airlines' transborder cooperation agreement, which allows Delta and Aeromexico to coordinate schedules, pricing, capacity and revenue sharing on routes between the United States and Mexico. The partnership, originally approved in 2016, has been one of the largest and most significant airline JVs in the North American market.
Delta welcomed the court of Appeal’s decision. “We appreciate the 11th Circuit's careful review and remain focused on ensuring our customers, employees, and communities continue to benefit from this longstanding partnership,” the airline said in a statement.
Aeromexico gave the verdict a more cautious appraisal: “Aeromexico is reviewing the Court’s opinion and potential next steps with Delta and its legal advisors and will keep the market informed of any material developments going forward”.
The dispute stems from broader tensions between the Trump administration and Mexico City over aviation policy, particularly Mexico's actions at Mexico City International Airport (MEX).
The DOT had argued that Mexican government policies, including reductions in available airport slots and restrictions affecting cargo operators, undermined competition and violated commitments under the 2015 U.S.-Mexico Air Transportation Agreement. Those concerns led the agency to order the dissolution of the JV last year.
