Q COSTARICA — Two of Mexico’s leading low-cost airlines, Viva and Volaris, have agreed to merge, forming what could become one of the biggest domestic airlines in the country.
Volaris has had a presence in Costa Rica for years, while Viva began operations in Costa Rica a few weeks ago, connecting San José with Monterrey, Mexico, with initial flights of two per week.
According to the agreement, the companies will continue operating under their current brands and maintain their own operations, the airlines announced in a joint statement.
“We expect that the formation of the new airline group will allow us to realize significant growth opportunities for air travel in Mexico,” said Enrique Beltranena, president and CEO of Volaris.
The agreement is subject to regulatory approval in Mexico and could face opposition from Aeroméxico, the main competitor of these low-cost carriers.
The potential merger comes amid some instability in the country’s aviation industry. In October, the U.S. Department of Transportation canceled plans for more than 13 routes to the United States for Mexican airlines.