Aeromexico trades domestic & international market share gains for lower yields as 2Q profits drop

Aeromexico recorded a sharp drop in profits in 2Q2014 as market conditions in Mexico became unfavourable. An economic slowdown has coincided with rapid capacity expansion by Aeromexico and the overall Mexican market, putting pressure on yields.

Aeromexico's capacity was up by 17% in 2Q2014, driven by a 27% spike in international ASKs. The group has adjusted domestic capacity, which was up by less than 3% in 2Q2014, but competitors continued to pursue aggressive domestic expansion.

Despite the relatively disappointing results Aeromexico has been consistently profitable over the past four years and boasts the highest margins in the Mexican airline industry. Challenging market conditions are likely to persist over the short term but the group's medium to long term outlook is relatively bright. Following its recent market share gains Aeromexico should be in prime position to benefit as the Mexico economy improves and competition becomes more rational.