A merger of equals, they’re calling it.
Viva and Volaris announced a surprise tie-up last December. The two are fierce competitors in the Mexican market, completing a near-triopoly in the domestic space.
The task of turning a triopoly into a de facto duopoly is not easy. The merger still needs regulatory approval from Mexico, the U.S. and Colombia, hurdles the airlines expect to clear by the end of 2026/early 2027.
This chart was included in a Cranky Network Weekly report a few weeks ago, and showcases how the two airlines are still aggressively competing. In what can only be appropriately termed a “Mexican Standoff,” Viva and Volaris continue to stare down one another in their enemy’s/future partner’s fortress hub. For Volaris, it’s GDL, and for Viva, it’s MTY.
Will the merger happen? Probably. It should, anyway, but when it comes to Mexican politics, we’re not exactly experts.
But Mexico hasn’t exactly had much luck with airlines over the past two decades - except, of course, for the two airlines in question. For a domestic market that has finally grown into its potential, Mexico could stand the kind of stability a merger like this would bring.
Talking engines with Steve Boecker
The latest Time on Wing podcast showcases Steve Boecker of HKAM Aviation. Steve has had quite the career, including stints at Pratt & Whitney, IAE, and Delta Tech Ops.
We talk about the engine current state of the engine market, the outlook for the GTF Advantage program, LEAP challenges, and quite a bit more.
Research published this week
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