US Court Blocks DOT Order: Delta, Aeromexico Get a Stay

The US Courts of Appeals have temporarily blocked the US Department of Transportation's (US DOT) order that required Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico to dissolve their joint venture by January 1, 2026.

The three-judge panel ruled that the DOT’s directive would be paused until the court conducts a more thorough review. This means that Delta and Aeromexico may continue to coordinate operations and marketing across their networks for the time being.

The US DOT issued the order in September 2025, citing concerns over competition in the US–Mexico aviation market. The nearly nine-year-old joint venture allows Delta and Aeromexico to coordinate routes, schedules, pricing, and capacity, giving them control of nearly 60 percent of the market through Mexico City International Airport.

In response, Delta and Aeromexico challenged the order in court, arguing it was arbitrary and harmful to passengers, employees, and regional economies that rely on cross-border travel.

The airlines also warned that ending the partnership would cause operational disruption, including cancelled flights, staffing challenges, and IT system overhauls.

The case remains under judicial and regulatory review, and both airlines are seeking a favorable outcome that preserves their alliance and maintains stability in the transborder market.

Photo by Trac Vu on Unsplash