Mexico Joins Canada, US, UK, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and More Countries Around the World Supercharging Travel and Tourism with Aviation Growth Leading to New Airlines Routes: And You Won’t Believe the Results

Published on January 9, 2026

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Mexico is joining Canada, the US, the UK, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and more countries around the world, all supercharging travel and tourism with aviation growth. This explosive aviation growth has led to the introduction of new airline routes, connecting more global destinations than ever before.

Mexico’s aviation expansion is a game changer, bringing increased tourism, enhanced airline routes, and stronger global connections. With new routes on the horizon, travel and tourism opportunities in Mexico are set to soar. You won’t believe how these aviation growth strategies are changing the game!

Mexico’s AIFA Launches Bold Strategy to Supercharge Passenger Growth and Airline Connectivity

Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) has launched a public tender to hire a specialized consultancy aimed at dramatically boosting passenger traffic, attracting more airlines, and expanding cargo operations. The strategy will focus on identifying viable routes, negotiating with airlines, and addressing operational constraints nearly four years after the Mexico airport first opened.

The consultancy will review AIFA’s performance since its opening, including passenger numbers, route-level results, and airline responses, to understand which destinations have been successful and which haven’t. With this analysis, the firm will propose new routes, recommend which airlines to engage, and determine the ideal conditions for consolidating these flights. The role will be interactive, with the consultancy advising AIFA through ongoing negotiations with airlines over the coming year.

United States: Open Skies and Global Powerhouse Tourism

The United States has long been a powerhouse in tourism, and its air connectivity policies have only cemented its place as a top destination. The Open Skies agreements and the National Travel and Tourism Strategy are at the heart of U.S. efforts to boost global travel. Open Skies policies remove restrictive barriers, allowing airlines from various countries to operate freely between their hubs and U.S. cities. As a result, flights to iconic U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami have increased, making the country more accessible than ever. The U.S. government also incentivises direct flights, offering better infrastructure and promoting tourism through programs like Visit America Act. These efforts are designed to increase the number of international tourists visiting the country, leading to massive benefits for local economies, from restaurants to hotels, while creating thousands of jobs. With airline growth directly linked to tourism success, the U.S. is poised to lead the global tourism race. (congress.gov)

Canada: Federal Strategy Fueling Tourism via Air Connectivity

Canada has a comprehensive strategy in place to boost tourism, with air connectivity at the forefront of its efforts. The Canadian government’s Federal Tourism Growth Strategy aims to enhance air access to key international markets, focusing on building stronger partnerships with airlines. By promoting routes to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, Canada is making it easier for international tourists to reach its cities. The government’s collaboration with Transport Canada has led to a more competitive aviation landscape, where airlines can increase the frequency of flights to and from major global hubs. Additionally, emerging markets like India, China, and Mexico are seeing direct flights to Canada, further boosting inbound tourism. This strategic approach not only increases tourism numbers but also strengthens the local economy, creating more jobs, stimulating infrastructure, and expanding tourism offerings across the country. (tc.canada.ca)

Saudi Arabia: A Game-Changer with the Air Connectivity Program

Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a key player in the global tourism landscape with its Air Connectivity Program (ACP). Under Vision 2030, the government has implemented a series of initiatives to transform the Kingdom into a global tourism hub. The ACP encourages international airlines to operate new routes to Saudi destinations, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Mecca, helping the country achieve its ambitious tourism targets. By increasing access to the Kingdom through direct flights, Saudi Arabia aims to bring millions of visitors, boosting the local economy and supporting job creation in hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors. This strategic initiative is already yielding results with new routes opening from key global markets such as Europe, Asia, and North America. The government’s strong commitment to enhancing air access is a catalyst for inbound tourism, helping Saudi Arabia become a leading destination for both business and leisure travel. (acp.gov.sa)

Thailand: A Powerful Connectivity Strategy to Attract Global Tourists

Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) has made air connectivity a cornerstone of its tourism strategy. The country has implemented the Airline Focus strategy, which partners with global carriers to introduce new flights to Thailand, making it easier for tourists from around the world to visit its stunning beaches, temples, and vibrant cities. Through these strategic partnerships, Thailand has seen an increase in direct flights from Europe, Australia, and Asia to Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. This move not only increases accessibility but also diversifies the country’s tourist base, targeting new markets and enhancing the global appeal of Thailand as a top destination. With greater competition between airlines and affordable flights, Thailand’s tourism industry continues to thrive, bringing in millions of visitors each year who explore its rich culture and landscapes.

United Kingdom: Connectivity Growth through Carrier Expansion

The United Kingdom has long been a leader in tourism, and its air connectivity strategy is vital to maintaining that position. UK airports, led by London Heathrow, Manchester, and Gatwick, are rapidly expanding international routes, especially to Asia, Africa, and the Americas. In addition to the expanded flight offerings from major carriers like British Airways, the UK government also supports increased open skies agreements with key tourism partners, which means more affordable and direct flights for international tourists. Post-Brexit, the UK has embraced opportunities for expanded air routes with EU countries and non-EU markets, ensuring that tourism continues to thrive despite geopolitical changes. This enhanced connectivity is helping the UK maintain its competitive edge as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. (travelandtourworld.com)

Vietnam: New International Connectivity & Bilateral Links

Vietnam has made significant strides in expanding its airline connectivity through new routes to international destinations. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines have launched direct flights to markets like Europe, India, and East Asia, ensuring that Vietnam remains accessible to international tourists. The government’s support for direct routes has led to increased air capacity and higher frequencies, benefiting tourism in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Additionally, the Vietnam Ministry of Transport has entered into bilateral agreements with countries like South Korea and Japan to boost air connectivity. This has significantly impacted Vietnam’s tourism industry, with the rise of international arrivals looking to explore its natural beauty, history, and cuisine. Direct flights now make Vietnam’s cultural gems more reachable than ever before, helping the country compete with other Southeast Asian tourism hotspots. (vietnam-briefing.com)

Qatar: National Vision & Strategic Tourism Policy

Qatar has crafted a strong aviation strategy as part of its Vision 2030 national development plan, positioning Doha as a key transit hub for international tourists. Through state-owned Qatar Airways, the country has established direct air routes to Asia, Europe, and Africa, ensuring that Qatar is more accessible than ever before. The government-backed tourism policies focus on infrastructure development and visa facilitation to further enhance the nation’s appeal. By increasing the frequency of international flights, Qatar is becoming a major player in the global tourism market, attracting millions of visitors each year who are drawn to its luxury tourism and cultural landmarks. With Qatar Airways continuously expanding its network, Qatar’s tourism numbers are expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. (mofa.gov.qa)

Azerbaijan: Tourism & Route Expansion

Azerbaijan is making waves in tourism by enhancing air connectivity to key global destinations. Azerbaijan Airlines has expanded its flight network, launching new routes to cities like Seoul and Copenhagen. These direct services are vital in driving international tourism to Azerbaijan, as more global travelers can now easily reach the country. The government’s efforts to improve air access align with the broader national goal of increasing international visitors. Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage, combined with easier air access, is making it an increasingly popular destination for tourists interested in history, nature, and adventure tourism. This strategic growth in air routes is paving the way for future tourism expansion in the country, enhancing its position as a tourism hub in the Caucasus region.

Jordan: Tourism Policy with Aviation Linkages

Jordan is making huge strides in tourism growth through strategic aviation developments. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has collaborated with aviation authorities to improve direct flight access to Jordan, enabling tourists to reach Amman, Petra, and Aqaba from all over the world. New routes from Europe, North America, and the Middle East are boosting international arrivals. These efforts are reflected in Jordan’s Vision 2025, which seeks to enhance air connectivity to facilitate tourism growth. With better air access, more tourists are visiting Jordan’s ancient historical sites, deserts, and beaches, fueling the growth of the tourism sector.

AIFA plans to compare its performance with nearby airports like Mexico City International Airport (AICM), identifying domestic and international markets lacking direct connections. The ultimate goal is to develop a five-year route growth plan that includes passenger and cargo traffic projections, as well as profitability estimates. Key performance indicators will be established to track results over time.

The strategy also includes a thorough assessment of ground access and mobility to AIFA, addressing how passengers and cargo access the airport, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing solutions to improve transportation links. The consultancy will also create a sales dossier, conduct demand analysis, and organize commercial missions for airlines and investors.

Since its opening in 2022, AIFA has transported over 17 million passengers and closed 2025 with more than 7 million passengers, a 12% increase over the previous year. With projections aiming for 9 million passengers in 2026, the airport continues to expand its international network, currently serving routes to Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Bogota, and Caracas, along with occasional charter flights to Sofia, Bulgaria.