Mexico’s pilot union ASPA has urged regulators to reject the proposed merger between Volaris and Viva Aerobus, bringing labour opposition directly into the antitrust review of the two low-cost carriers. The deal would combine two of Mexico’s biggest airlines and could create a new group with roughly 70% of the domestic market, making competition concerns central to the decision.
ASPA submitted a formal negative opinion after being asked to provide labour input on the transaction, citing concerns over employment and wages. The merger review remains under way before Mexico’s competition authority, which is still assessing the commercial effects of the combination.
The carriers are seeking operational efficiencies, better aircraft leasing terms and a stronger transborder presence in the US while keeping the Volaris and Viva brands separate under a new holding structure. Another union, STIA, has backed the transaction, underscoring a split among aviation labour groups as the review continues.