Air Cargo Transportation in Mexico: Key to Global Logistics

Air cargo transportation in Mexico has evolved significantly in recent decades, positioning itself as a strategic axis for global logistics. This sector has been driven by the growing demand for speed and efficiency in international markets, as well as by the expansion of e-commerce, the Nearshoring trend, export diversification, and the support of trade agreements such as the Mexico-United States-Canada Agreement (USMCA). These factors have strengthened Mexico's role as a crucial logistics point, especially in sectors such as automotive, electronics, and manufacturing. Factors Driving Air Cargo Transportation Growth E-commerce: The digitization of consumption and the expansion of global platforms like Amazon and Mercado Libre have increased the need for fast logistics solutions. Air cargo enables meeting the reduced delivery times demanded by e-commerce. Nearshoring: The relocation of supply chains to Mexico due to trade tensions between the United States and China has generated increased demand for fast and reliable transportation to connect manufacturers with their main markets. Diversified Exports: Mexico has expanded its range of exported products, including high-value goods such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and technology, which require air transport to guarantee their quality and delivery speed. Trade Agreements: The USMCA and other treaties have strengthened commercial exchange with North America and other regions, increasing air traffic for specialized cargo. Relevant Figures from the Most Important Airports in 2024 From January to November 2024, Mexican airports registered a 6.3% increase in total cargo volume, reaching 1,160,035.5 tons, according to data from the Federal Aviation Agency (AFAC). This growth reflects the sector's dynamism and the challenges it faces. Santa Lucia: Leader with 413,223.7 tons, consolidating itself as a key hub for air trade. Its modern infrastructure and strategic location have been determining factors. Mexico City (AICM): Despite its 49% decline (217,950.7 tons), it remains relevant, although it faces challenges such as saturation and the need for modernization. Guadalajara: Showed 5.4% growth (159,922.1 tons), positioning itself as an outstanding regional logistics center. Monterrey and Querétaro: With 73,321.8 and 70,785.5 tons respectively, they continue strengthening their role in cargo transportation for the Bajío and northern regions of the country. Tijuana: With 9.4% growth (35,270 tons), it benefits from its proximity to the United States, ideal for cross-border shipments. Airport Infrastructure Investments The expansion and modernization of airports are fundamental to maintaining Mexico's competitiveness in air cargo transportation. Some key projects include: Pacific Airport Group (GAP): Announced an investment plan of 52,000 million pesos (2025-2029) to modernize 12 airports. Among them, the construction of a new terminal in Guadalajara and the acquisition of land for a third runway stand out. Tijuana: Will receive 9,833 million pesos to expand its terminal, reinforcing its role as a link with the United States. Querétaro: Its 2050 vision includes transforming into a sustainable airport city, with capacity to handle up to 207,000 tons of cargo annually. AICM: Began 2025 with an 8,000 million peso investment focused on modernizing its operational infrastructure and optimizing processes. Technological Innovations and Sustainability Technology is transforming air cargo transportation. Tools such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and blockchain are optimizing supply chains, reducing costs and times. Additionally, sustainability has become a priority: Biofuels: Reduce the carbon footprint of cargo aircraft. Carbon Offsetting: Programs that help mitigate environmental impact. Energy Efficiency: Technologies that improve energy consumption in air terminals. Challenges and Opportunities While air cargo transportation offers great opportunities, it also faces significant challenges: Customs Regulations: Mexican airports must simplify processes to speed up the movement of goods. Operating Costs: Reducing costs is key to remaining competitive against other countries. Operational Capacity: The saturation of some airports limits their potential, making infrastructure investment urgent. Perspectives for 2025 and Key Events According to IATA, global air cargo demand will continue growing in 2025, supported by the recovery of international trade and declining inflation in major economies. Events such as Road 2 Logistics (June 11-12 in León, Guanajuato) will address these challenges and opportunities, bringing together experts in the supply chain and automotive industry. Air cargo transportation in Mexico has the potential to become a global leader, but this will depend on the ability to adapt to trends, invest in technology and infrastructure, and promote collaboration between government and private initiative. Air logistics not only connects goods but also drives the country's economic development.