Following Brazil, Avion Express will launch ACMI subsidiary in Mexico
Avion Express, one of the world’s leading ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operators, has officially launched the process to obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in Mexico.
The move is part of the company’s broader strategy to expand its presence in Latin America and solidify operations in high-growth aviation markets.
The announcement, made on May 2, includes the launch of a recruitment process to select the CEO who will lead Avion Express Mexico.
This executive will be responsible for building the local team, overseeing the certification process with Mexican aviation authorities, and managing the airline once it becomes operational.
Subsidiary in Brazil
With a strong presence in Europe, Avion Express recently obtained the AOC in Brazil, where it already has an Airbus A320 with local registration.
Avion Express is pursuing a strategy focused on counter-seasonal markets—regions where travel demand differs from European high seasons. Mexico fits this profile with a large and growing aviation sector.
According to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), the country welcomed more than 45 million international tourists in 2024, the highest figure since 2019. Domestically, over 830,000 flights were operated that year, with 596 city pairs served.
The Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) reported that the average number of flights per person in Mexico in 2024 was 0.85—well above the regional average of 0.62. Between 2017 and 2024, domestic air travel in Mexico grew at an annual rate of 4.4%.
ACMI model and global fleet
The ACMI business model allows airlines to lease aircraft complete with crew, maintenance, and insurance, providing flexibility during seasonal peaks or to cover operational gaps.
Avion Express currently operates a fleet of 55 Airbus A320 family aircraft, serving a wide range of clients including Wizz Air, Flybondi, Eurowings, Transavia, Viva, and others.
The company already has experience in the Mexican market through long-term ACMI partnerships and believes the new AOC will strengthen its long-term position in the region. The certification process is expected to be completed within 24 months.
“We’re laying the foundation for a sustainable and long-term operation in the region,” said Darius Kajokas, CEO of Avion Express. “With a local structure and experienced professionals, we believe we can deliver real value to Mexican carriers.”
About the Author
Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
