Tampa International Airport and Aeromexico on Monday rang in new nonstop service between Tampa Bay and Mexico City with a warm welcome, traditional treats and even some Mariachi music and a ballet performance.
Before TPA’s latest airline arrived on its first journey from the Mexican capital, officials from the Airport, Aeromexico, their SkyTeam Alliance partner Delta Air Lines, and Tampa Bay tourism and economic development agencies celebrated the occasion.
In addition to Aguas Frescas and Mexican pastries, the festivities included a Mariachi band and the Tampa City Ballet performing a piece from its show “If I Cry,” inspired by the life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.
Tampa Bay was previously Aeromexico’s largest unserved market in the United States, and is now its 23rd destination in the country and third in Florida, behind Orlando and Miami.
“Tampa International Airport celebrates a major milestone in connecting our region to the world today by welcoming our new airline partner Aeromexico and this daily, nonstop service to Mexico City,” TPA CEO Joe Lopano said. “I’d like to thank our community partners across Tampa Bay for working tirelessly to help make this relationship possible and for strengthening ties to encourage the continued success of our thriving region.”
Almost 80,000 people in Tampa Bay are from Mexico, making them the region’s second-largest foreign-born population, behind only Cuba. Economic estimates say this new route will generate almost $70 million per year, strengthening the regional economy and improving relations with Mexico, an important trade partner for Florida.
Aeromexico is flying the new route to Mexico City International Airport (MEX) aboard Embraer E190 aircraft with 99 seats, including 11 in Aeromexico’s premium cabin, Clase Premier.
Aeromexico is a founding member of the SkyTeam Alliance alongside of Delta Air Lines, and the airline’s daily service to Mexico’s capital will offer seamless connections to and from their extensive network across Mexico and Latin America.
«At Aeromexico, we are committed to strengthening our connectivity network between Mexico and the United States, working with our partner Delta Air Lines,” said Jose Zapata, Vice President of Sales for the United States, Canada and Latin America. “Today, we begin flying directly to Tampa from Mexico City, making it much easier and more convenient to travel between these two destinations for our diverse passengers.»
Go to Aeromexico.com today to book a flight.
| Route | Departure | Arrival |
| MEX – TPA | 9:55 a.m. | 3:15 p.m. |
| TPA – MEX | 4:36 p.m. | 6:15 p.m. |
Tampa Bay business and tourism leaders proudly celebrated the sought-after route. Here’s what they are saying:
Santiago Corrada, President & CEO Visit Tampa Bay:
“We will continue working with the Airport and our partners to keep strengthening the links between our communities. We’re proud that our efforts over many years are reflected in Aeromexico’s decision and we look forward to mutual success. With top-tier amenities and an ever-growing cultural scene, the spotlight continues to shine on Tampa Bay as a top international destination.”
Brian Lowack, President & CEO of Visit St. Pete Clearwater:
“Our award-winning beaches and world-famous arts and attractions remain a key factor in bringing more visitors to Pinellas County and our entire region. All the advertising and in-market work of our teams have helped grow our region’s visitation from Mexico. It will be great to welcome even more new visitors making their first visit to our destination, arriving daily aboard this new Aeromexico flight.”
Craig Richard, President & CEO of the Tampa Bay EDC, and Chairman of Global Tampa Bay:
“As one of TPA’s top targeted markets in Latin America, this new flight to Mexico City is major win for business owners looking to expand global trade and open new investment opportunities. On behalf of Global Tampa Bay, the international trade and investment partnership between Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco County Economic Development Organizations, we are thrilled to see Aeromexico flying into this region, we and are behind this partnership all the way.”
Bob Rohrlack, President & CEO of the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce:
“This is a huge win for Tampa Bay and the entire state of Florida. Mexico is one of our state’s biggest trading partners, so this new flight from Aeromexico is sure to amplify the business ties between our regions.”
Chris Steinocher, President & CEO of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce:
“It’s great news that we are adding an international destination that opens so many connections across all of Mexico. Local businesses can only prosper from the opportunities this route brings to our area.”
