The AFAC budget is set at US$75.8 million for 2027

Jesus Esteva, head of the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT), has confirmed that the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) will receive a budget of US$75.8 million for 2027, thereby turning the cut proposed in the budget bill submitted by the Chamber of Deputies into a larger allocation for the agency.

The budget document proposes funding of US$9.5 million, which is 73% less than the amount authorized for this year, despite the fact that Mexico is currently undergoing an audit by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the outcome of which will determine whether Mexican aviation remains in Category 1 or is downgraded to Category 2.

The plan to reduce funding was rejected by the private sector, and following a meeting with representatives of the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP), Esteva confirmed that he had secured an increase in that amount, which is a commitment between government agencies.

“We will have an AFAC that is stronger than ever. In 2027, it will receive the largest budget in its history: 1.4 billion pesos, and by the end of this administration, we plan for it to have a staff of 900 new professionals, 100 of whom will join this year. By 2027, the number of inspectors hired will have nearly quadrupled compared to 2024. We will have a larger budget, more staff, and better-trained personnel,” he said.

During his participation in one of the summits of the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA), the official emphasized that aviation is a strategic priority for the federal government.

Similarly, the head of the SICT noted that the Mexican Aviation Policy 2026–2030 (developed with industry input and in accordance with the methodology of the International Civil Aviation Organization) will be published shortly as the first comprehensive update in this area in 25 years, serving as the roadmap that will guide civil aviation.