Mexico’s National Antimonopoly Commission is expected to approve the proposed merger of low-cost carriers Viva Aerobus and Volaris before the end of 2026, creating Grupo Más Vuelos, which would become the country’s largest airline group. The transaction is structured as a merger of equals, while both airlines are expected to retain their existing brands and continue operating under separate identities.
The approval is expected to include conditions designed to limit the effects of greater market concentration. These could require Grupo Más Vuelos to preserve low fares and its low-cost operating model, avoid widespread layoffs and maintain most of Viva and Volaris’ current routes, particularly where competing services are limited.
The CNA is still defining how route obligations would be specified and monitored. Regulators have also considered addressing the number of flights permitted at major airports, although the scope of any such measures remains unresolved. The authority has stressed that the proceeding remains open and that due process must be followed, meaning no final decision has yet been issued.
Viva Aerobus and Volaris are continuing to cooperate with regulators and remain confident in the transaction’s strategic rationale. The merger has reportedly cleared antitrust reviews in the United States and Colombia, leaving Mexico’s decision and its definitive conditions as the key outstanding approvals.