Aeromexico and Delta JV: major uncertainty reigns after the DoT hits hard with slot divestitures

A transborder joint venture between SkyTeam partners Aeromexico and Delta is hanging in the balance now that the US DoT has required slot divestitures and other stipulations in order for the airlines to move forward with their proposed business agreement. Not surprisingly, Aeromexico and Delta believe limitations proposed by US regulators would diminish the economic benefits of the joint venture, and are warning they are reconsidering deepening their business ties.

Numerous airlines expressed concerns about Aeromexico and Delta's concentration of slots at Mexico City Juarez, and the DoT responded by requiring slot divestitures at the airport along with the relinquishment of slots at New York JFK. The airlines have countered that the DoT's analysis is flawed, and that a smaller number of slot divestitures at Juarez required by Mexico's government should allay any concerns expressed by competitors. Aeromexico and Delta also argue another stipulation imposed by US regulators - limiting the joint venture to a five-year term - would create too much uncertainty for the viability of the business venture.

Delta's plans to take its stake in Aeromexico up to 49% was contingent on the JV proposal succeeding. But with the stipulations imposed by DoT in order for the partners to establish their joint venture a dark cloud of uncertainty is hovering over Aeromexico's future ownership structure.