Tampa International Airport (TPA) has officially announced a game-changing partnership with Aeromexico, bringing daily nonstop service to Mexico City International Airport (MEX). This exciting development, revealed on Monday, marks a significant milestone for TPA and the Tampa Bay region, fulfilling a long-sought-after connection to one of North America’s largest and most vibrant cities. For years, Mexico City has been a top priority for Tampa International Airport, and this new route promises substantial benefits for both business and leisure travelers, as well as the numerous families in the Tampa Bay area with close ties to Mexico. The economic impact of this direct link is projected to be around $70 million for the Tampa Bay region, highlighting the significance of this new international connection.
For Aeromexico, Tampa Bay represented their largest unserved market in the United States, making this new route a strategic expansion. Tampa Bay becomes Aeromexico’s 23rd U.S. destination and their third in Florida, joining Orlando and Miami in their growing network. The Mexico City International Airport route will be serviced by Embraer E190 aircraft, offering 99 seats, including 11 in Aeromexico’s premium Clase Premier cabin. As a founding member of the SkyTeam Alliance, alongside Delta Air Lines, Aeromexico’s service to Mexico City International Airport provides passengers with seamless connections to an extensive network throughout Mexico and Latin America. This partnership greatly enhances travel options and convenience for passengers flying to and from Mexico City International Airport.
“It’s a big day when we get to announce both a new airline and a new route that connects Tampa Bay with the largest metropolitan area in North America,” stated Tampa International Airport CEO Joe Lopano. “We’re proud to welcome Aeromexico to TPA with this nonstop service to Mexico City and we are so grateful to our Tampa Bay community partners who have stepped up to help ensure the success of this flight.” The enthusiasm was mutual, with Aeromexico representatives joining TPA, tourism officials, and economic development leaders on Monday to share the exciting news and details of this important collaboration.
“This new service to the Tampa Bay area demonstrates our commitment to offer the best connectivity between Mexico and the United States, hand in hand with our partner Delta Air Lines,” said Jose Zapata, Vice President of Sales for US, Canada and Latin America at Aeromexico. “As a result, our customers will have more options for leisure and business travel, and Tampa Bay has a lot to offer.” Thanks to Aeromexico’s alliance with Delta, tickets are readily available through both airlines’ online platforms, with attractive introductory fares to entice travelers.
Flight Schedule for Mexico City International Airport Route
The flight schedule, effective from July 1st, is designed for convenience and optimal travel times:
| Route | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| MEX – TPA | 10:00 a.m. | 3:20 p.m. |
| TPA – MEX | 4:35 p.m. | 6:14 p.m. |
Travelers interested in experiencing this new direct route to Mexico City International Airport can book flights now through Aeromexico.com or Delta.com.
Tampa Bay Leaders Celebrate Enhanced Connectivity to Mexico City International Airport
Business and tourism leaders throughout the Tampa Bay region have warmly welcomed the new route, recognizing it as a significant achievement and a valuable asset for the community.
Santiago Corrada, President & CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, commented, “We’ve just returned from a very successful sales mission to Guadalajara and Mexico City and see great potential. We will continue working with the Airport and our partners to keep strengthening the links between our communities. We’re proud that our efforts over many years are reflected in Aeromexico’s decision and we look forward to mutual success. With top-tier amenities and an ever-growing cultural scene, the spotlight continues to shine on Tampa Bay as a top international destination.”
Brian Lowack, President & CEO of Visit St. Pete Clearwater, added, “Our award-winning beaches and world-famous arts and attractions remain a key factor in bringing more visitors to Pinellas County and our entire region. All the advertising and in-market work of our teams have helped grow our region’s visitation from Mexico. It will be great to welcome even more new visitors making their first visit to our destination, arriving daily aboard this new Aeromexico flight.”
Craig Richard, President & CEO of the Tampa Bay EDC, and Chairman of Global Tampa Bay, stated, “As one of TPA’s top targeted markets in Latin America, this new flight to Mexico City is major win for business owners looking to expand global trade and open new investment opportunities. On behalf of Global Tampa Bay, the international trade and investment partnership between Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco County Economic Development Organizations, we are thrilled to see Aeromexico flying into this region, we and are behind this partnership all the way.”
Bob Rohrlack, President & CEO of the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, noted, “This is a huge win for Tampa Bay and the entire state of Florida. Mexico is one of our state’s biggest trading partners, so this new flight from Aeromexico is sure to amplify the business ties between our regions.”
Chris Steinocher, President & CEO of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, concluded, “It’s great news that we are adding an international destination that opens so many connections across all of Mexico. Local businesses can only prosper from the opportunities this announcement brings to our area.”
This new direct flight to Mexico City International Airport not only enhances travel convenience but also strengthens economic and cultural ties between Tampa Bay and Mexico, opening up a world of opportunities for both regions.
