Mexico Aviation, Space See Boost from Jets and Drones

Mexico’s aviation and aerospace sectors are poised for significant growth, with Boeing forecasting 600–800 new jets by 2045 and Latin American air traffic increasing 4.3% annually. Key investments include GAP’s MX$2.8 billion airport expansion and GE Aerospace’s MX$550 million modernization program. The FAA is advancing eVTOL pilot programs, while Mexico pursues space innovation through KIO-Lonestar partnerships and developments in drone technology.

Clear for takeoff—This is the Week in Aerospace!

AI-Powered Drones: Revolutionizing Intelligence and Security

AI has expanded the functions and capabilities of drones, enabling greater autonomy and precision in their operations. With features such as object detection, image recognition, and real-time decision-making, drones can now perform complex tasks without human intervention.

GAP to Invest MX$2.8 Billion in Guanajuato Airport Through 2029

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) plans to invest more than MX$2.8 billion (US$164.7 million) in Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) from 2025 to 2029, according to its latest Master Development Plan. This investment triples the amount spent between 2020 and 2024 and aims to accommodate growing passenger traffic and operational needs.

GE Aerospace to Invest MX$550 Million in Mexico Expansion in 2025

GE Aerospace will invest MX$550 million (US$29.4 million) in 2025 to expand and modernize its operations in Hermosillo and Saltillo. The bulk of the investment—MX$538.6 million (US$28.8 million)—will go to the Hermosillo facility, which manufactures components for narrow-body aircraft engines, including critical rotating parts used in LEAP turbofan engines for aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX, and COMAC C919.

Boeing Signals More 777X Delays, Misses 2026 Certification Target

Boeing has signaled another potential delay in certifying its long-range 777X aircraft, which is already six years behind schedule. CEO Kelly Ortberg said on Sept. 11 that the company is falling behind its target to secure regulatory approval by 2026.

FAA Launches Pilot Program to Accelerate eVTOL Integration

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched a new pilot program to accelerate the integration and commercial deployment of electric air taxis. The initiative will support at least five projects through partnerships between state and local governments and private-sector companies developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

Aeroméxico Drops to 2nd in August 2025 On-Time Performance

Aeroméxico has lost its position as the world’s most punctual airline in Cirium’s latest global On-Time Performance (OTP) ranking for August 2025. After leading the ranking in July, the Mexican carrier slipped to second place with an OTP of 87.63%.

Mexico Has a Five-Year Window to Join Space Industry

The main goal is to build a Mexican aerospace and space industry that leads in innovation, design, and intellectual property—not just manufacturing for others. The future is “mindfacturing”: creating value through knowledge and creativity.

Mexico Could Need Up to 800 New Jets by 2045, Says Boeing

Mexico is projected to require between 600 and 800 new aircraft over the next 20 years as passenger demand and air cargo activity expand, according to Boeing’s latest market outlook. The forecast, presented in Mexico City by senior executives, positions the country as one of the largest sources of aircraft demand in Latin America.

Mexico’s KIO, Lonestar Partner on Space Data Storage by 2027

Mexican data center operator KIO and US-based Lonestar have announced a strategic alliance to develop space-based data storage infrastructure. The plan includes four ground stations—in the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Australia—and an initial constellation of six satellites with a combined storage capacity of 200 to 400 petabytes. Commercial deployment is targeted for 2027, with the Mexico-based station serving as the hub for Latin America.

Aviation to Grow in Latin America Over Next Two Decades: Boeing

Boeing forecasts a robust future for the aviation sector in Latin America. The company's research indicates that air traffic in the region will grow 4.3% annually over the next two decades, a figure that surpasses global projections. This expansion will demand significant investment in the modernization and enlargement of existing fleets, as well as in the training of new technical and cabin personnel.