US-based Delta Air Lines has started implementing its joint cooperation agreement (JCA) with Mexican carrier Grupo Aeroméxico to operate transborder flights between the two countries.

The JCA was launched after the two airlines confirmed about the completion of necessary steps required to launch the agreement with the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Mexico’s Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE).

Under the JCA, which is the first immunised transborder alliance between Mexico and the US, both airlines will be able to expand competition and serve new destinations.

“We are now well positioned to provide significant benefits to our customers, our businesses and our employees.”

They will also be able to offer additional services and more convenient schedules to their customers.

Delta and Aeromexico will also jointly work to improve customer experience on the ground and in the air by investing in airport facilities, boarding gates and lounges.

Both carriers will further be able to employ joint sales and marketing initiatives in the US and Mexico.

Delta will use its connecting hubs in Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York, Salt Lake City and Seattle to provide services in the US, while Aeromexico will offer better access to Mexico through its hubs in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara.

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said: “The ability to cooperate fully with Aeromexico brings additional competition to one of the most dynamic transborder markets in the world.

“Our opportunity to leverage Delta’s experience and our proven record of successful joint ventures, together with a long history of working with Aeromexico, will make this a great JCA. 

“We are now well positioned to provide significant benefits to our customers, our businesses and our employees.”

In March, Delta completed a cash tender offer to purchase 32% of Grupo Aeromexico.

Image: Infographic on partnership between Delta and Grupo Aeromexico. Photo: courtesy of Delta Air Lines.