Eleventh Circuit preserves Aeromexico-Delta joint venture

A U.S. appeals court, the 11th Circuit, vacated the Department of Transportation’s order to unwind the Delta-Aeroméxico joint venture, preserving its antitrust immunity and cross-border coordination. The decision sustains a decade-long alliance that coordinates scheduling, pricing, and frequent-flyer programs between the United States and Mexico, reinforcing connectivity and competition for travelers. The court criticized the DOT for conducting a narrower market analysis than normal, calling into question the rationale for ending the venture. The Delta-Aeroméxico partnership accounts for a large share of U.S.-Mexico flights, underscoring the alliance’s significance for trans-border travel and industry dynamics. The rulings build on earlier Trump administration-era actions toward Mexican carriers, with observers watching for further regulatory and legal developments. Aeroméxico and Delta say they will review the opinion with their advisers and determine next steps.