Volaris Approved for Foreign Pilots by AFAC; ASPA Protests
The Mexican Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) has approved Volaris to use foreign pilots on 10 aircraft between December 1, 2025, and January 12, 2026. Industry groups and pilot unions claim this decision contradicts the Mexican Constitution and Civil Aviation Law.
Details of the Authorization
Documents from El Financiero reveal that this authorization allows Volaris to hire crews from Malta and Lithuania. These foreign pilots will be based at both Mexico City International Airport and Guadalajara International Airport. The arrangement is described as a wet-lease contract and involves compensation from engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney.
Legal Concerns Raised
- Pilot unions argue that Article 32 of the Mexican Constitution states that only Mexican-born captains may command aircraft in national airspace.
- They believe the authorization bypasses regulations related to aircraft leasing.
ASPA, the Asociación Sindical de Pilotos Aviadores de México, has formally protested the AFAC’s decision. ASPA spokesperson José Suárez emphasized that current regulations do not allow foreign pilots to command flights within Mexico. Furthermore, he indicated that the union would pursue legal action against those who approved the measure.
Arguments Against Foreign Pilots
Suárez criticized the rationale behind the authorization, stating it appears linked more to financial compensation from Pratt & Whitney than to operational needs. He urged the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport (SICT) to rectify what he called an irregularity in AFAC’s approval process.
Response from the Colegio de Pilotos Aviadores de México
The Colegio de Pilotos Aviadores de México (CPAM) has also voiced strong opposition. CPAM President Ángel Domínguez affirmed the availability of qualified Mexican pilots to meet operational demands. He argued that replacing them with foreign crews lacks legal and technical justification.
- CPAM emphasizes that reliance on foreign pilots contradicts the government’s focus on national employment and sovereignty.
- They warn that the approval could lead to concealed cabotage, negatively impacting Mexican pilots’ labor rights.
- CPAM labeled the decision a “precedent” that undermines the integrity of Mexico’s aviation regulations.
Despite inquiries, Volaris has not provided any comments regarding the operational necessity for hiring foreign pilots. ASPA maintains that the airline has ample personnel capable of fulfilling the approved flights without external assistance.
