Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara

Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Mexican Cargo Airline Gets US Foreign Charter Permit for North American Routes

Awesome Cargo, a Mexican cargo airline, has been granted permission by the US government to operate charter flights within North America. This opens up new opportunities for the airline to expand its network, particularly connecting Mexico with major US cities. Their ambitious plans include launching ten new routes originating from Mexico City and Guadalajara, targeting key markets like Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and New York.

The airline's focus remains on enhancing the flow of cargo between Mexico and the United States, a market that appears to be in need of more capacity. As a means to achieve this, Awesome Cargo has formed a collaboration with WestJet Cargo, a Canadian cargo carrier, to operate Boeing 737 freighters on routes within the US and Mexico, beginning this winter. While it's positive that they've secured a partner, it raises questions about whether Awesome Cargo's own fleet will be sufficient for this scale of operation. They're considering adding Airbus A330s to their plans, and potentially adding leased Boeing 737s to their operation for the charter flights they aim to perform. Time will tell if these plans will translate into a more robust air cargo network and whether they will succeed in the competitive US market.

It's fascinating to see how Awesome Cargo, a Mexican carrier officially known as TM Aerolineas, is strategically expanding its reach into the North American air freight market. Securing a US foreign charter permit, effective earlier this year, grants them the ability to operate across the continent. Their plan is ambitious, encompassing ten new routes between Mexico City's Felipe Ángeles International Airport and Guadalajara to major US hubs like Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and New York. This is not just about carrying goods; it suggests a more integrated North American logistics network is taking shape.

Their approach to expansion is multi-faceted. They are actively considering the Airbus A330 for longer routes, awaiting regulatory approval. Meanwhile, they've also struck a partnership with WestJet Cargo, employing Boeing 737-800BCF planes to bridge Los Angeles and Chicago for a while. The idea of potentially leasing additional Boeing 737-800 freighters hints at their dedication to solidifying their foothold in the US market.

It is interesting how their plans play into the broader picture. Air freight capacity is a critical asset, especially with predictions of explosive growth over the coming years. Awesome Cargo's expanded reach isn't only about their own operations; it signals a broader shift towards connecting the US and Mexican economies through air transport. Their strategy to cater to local US demand aligns with this trend, and the fact that they're already involved with flights to Latin America and the Asia-Pacific suggests they see this expansion as a crucial piece of their long-term operational strategy.

The interesting thing is that Felipe Ángeles International Airport becomes even more important. It will function as a major operational hub as the airline expands its network of connections between Mexico and the United States. The question remains whether it can handle the increase in operations and serve as an efficient logistics hub for the expanding cargo operations. The future will show how the US and Mexican markets reshape themselves with this development. It could spur competition and reshape the landscape of air transport in the region. Their business model, encompassing both charter and scheduled freight, points toward an agile approach to market conditions. Overall, it's a development worth keeping an eye on in terms of logistical and economic impacts for North America.

What else is in this post?

1. Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Mexican Cargo Airline Gets US Foreign Charter Permit for North American Routes
2. Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Los Angeles and Miami First Among Ten New US Destinations from Mexico
3. Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - New Air Cargo Hub at Mexico City Felipe Angeles Airport Opens December 2024
4. Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - WestJet Cargo Partnership Brings Boeing 737-800BCF Aircraft to Mexican Routes
5. Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Cross Border Air Freight Links Chicago O'Hare with Guadalajara
6. Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Former Alitalia Airbus A330 Joins Mexican Cargo Fleet for US Operations

Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Los Angeles and Miami First Among Ten New US Destinations from Mexico

Los Angeles and Miami are among the first ten US destinations targeted by Awesome Cargo's ambitious expansion plans. The Mexican cargo carrier is gearing up to launch new routes from both Mexico City and Guadalajara, further strengthening the air travel connection between the two countries. This move falls in line with a broader trend of increased air travel options between the US and Mexico, with other airlines like Aeromexico also adding routes to major US cities such as Chicago and New York. The upswing in air travel between these regions is undoubtedly driven by greater travel demand, which is reflective of a growing economy and increased traveler confidence. This development also speaks to the evolving landscape of the North American air freight sector. The question remains, can Awesome Cargo effectively compete and carve out a significant role for itself in such a crowded and established market? It’s a question that time will undoubtedly answer. Their plans seem promising but there's certainly a high bar for success within the US air cargo scene.

Focusing on the US-Mexico air cargo market, Awesome Cargo's plans for ten new routes are centered around leveraging key locations like Los Angeles and Miami. Miami's role as a gateway to Latin America suggests a strategy to maximize the reach of its cargo operations, targeting not just the US but potentially connecting to other regional markets.

The collaboration with WestJet Cargo introduces an interesting dynamic. It showcases a trend towards airlines working together to cover wider networks, potentially improving the consistency and reliability of service across the North American region. The use of Boeing 737-800BCF freighters in this venture shows a growing reliance on converted passenger jets to handle cargo demands, suggesting an ability to quickly adapt to changing market needs without needing to entirely overhaul an airline's fleet.


The rapid growth projected in air cargo volumes, spurred by factors like e-commerce and global trade, likely factored into Awesome Cargo's expansion. Capturing a piece of this increased demand is a smart strategic move, potentially allowing them to compete more effectively in a crowded market. Felipe Ángeles International Airport is expected to take on a much more prominent role as a hub for cargo operations. However, the airport will need to be prepared for the increased freight activity and demonstrate that it can serve as an effective center for this increased logistical activity.


It is unclear how frequent flyer programs might evolve to include cargo services in the future. The current set-up mostly favors passenger services. It'll be fascinating to see whether the mileage-based points systems offered by different airlines and their partners will adjust to this developing sector. Increased air cargo transport can have ripple effects on both culinary scenes. Fresh produce and niche ingredients might move more easily, potentially enriching the food cultures on both sides of the border.

Naturally, the larger economic picture will benefit from this heightened connectivity. Increased trade between the two countries can spur economic activity and create jobs in related sectors like logistics, support services, and the aviation industry. Gaining the US foreign charter permit itself illustrates the intricate regulations involved with cross-border operations. The strategic approach that Awesome Cargo has taken underscores the importance of understanding and complying with these regulatory frameworks to ensure a successful international expansion. This development could trigger more competition and potentially alter how air cargo moves within the region. It’s definitely an industry sector worth watching for its ripple effects on the North American economic landscape.

Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - New Air Cargo Hub at Mexico City Felipe Angeles Airport Opens December 2024

Mexico City's Felipe Angeles International Airport is poised to become a major player in the air cargo industry with the launch of its new cargo hub in December 2024. This development follows a Mexican government decision to redirect freight traffic away from the older, congested Mexico City International Airport. Lufthansa Cargo, a major player, has already made the switch, operating all its Boeing 777 freighter flights from the new location, highlighting the growing importance of Felipe Angeles.

The new hub is intended to be a major catalyst for growth in cargo volume, attracting a variety of carriers to the facility. This anticipated surge in activity signifies a substantial shift in the North American air cargo market. Awesome Cargo, a newcomer on the scene, is set to start operations with inaugural US-bound flights in December, which will rely heavily on Felipe Angeles' ability to smoothly handle the increasing volume of cargo. Whether or not Felipe Angeles can efficiently manage this ramp-up remains to be seen. Overall, this airport is likely to reshape the cargo landscape in the region, impacting not only the airlines but potentially the broader economy and logistics industry in both Mexico and the United States. The coming months will likely reveal whether the new airport fulfills its promise and the full effects of its emergence on the cargo sector.

Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), located about 45 kilometers from Mexico City's downtown area, is poised to become a major player in the air cargo sector when it officially opens its cargo hub in December 2024. With an initial design capacity of handling 60 million passengers and over a million tons of cargo annually, it's a bold bet by the Mexican government to alleviate congestion at the existing airport and become a more efficient international cargo hub. It's geographically positioned in a way that might benefit both the city and its broader metropolitan area, attracting cargo not only bound for the capital but also acting as a major transshipment point for freight between Mexico and the US.

The timing of its opening coincides with predictions of significantly rising global air freight volumes over the next decade, mostly driven by growth in online shopping and faster transport of perishable goods. This seems to be a good time to get into the cargo business. AIFA's new infrastructure features upgraded cargo facilities and dedicated runways designed to cut down turnaround times – a crucial factor in the competitive airline industry where profits are directly tied to operational efficiency. The new airport is meant to support cargo-intensive sectors like Mexican avocado and berry exports, which require fast delivery to meet strong US demand.

It's intriguing to see that Awesome Cargo, a relatively new Mexican cargo carrier, is planning to launch ten new routes to the US from AIFA and Guadalajara, focusing on regions that accounted for a sizable portion of Mexico's air cargo imports in recent years. This suggests they've performed a thorough market analysis and are capitalizing on existing trade routes. They are partnering with WestJet Cargo to utilize a network of converted Boeing 737-800BCF freighters, which seems like a good, and likely more economical, way to address the growth of the air cargo sector, especially when compared to the capital expenditures of acquiring a new fleet of cargo aircraft. However, the operational efficiency benefits through such partnerships are still somewhat up for debate. There are studies that show aircraft utilization improvements of up to 20% but that depends on factors that are often outside of an individual carrier's control.

The airport, when operating at full capacity, will need to meet the very specific and increasingly rigorous security regulations for air cargo to move across borders. This includes meeting international standards and mitigating the risks inherent in cross-border trade, which adds a layer of complexity to the already challenging process of running a cargo operation. With the anticipated increase in flights between the two countries, the logistics industry could see around a 2% yearly growth. That will, of course, create jobs in transportation and related service industries. It is worth keeping an eye on how AIFA manages the transition from a brand new facility to a successful, internationally operating cargo hub. It's going to take some time to observe if it can handle the growing air cargo demand and, importantly, meet the needs of the diverse logistical operations that are expected to use it. There is certainly potential but also a lot of challenges ahead for AIFA and the surrounding logistics sector in Mexico.

Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - WestJet Cargo Partnership Brings Boeing 737-800BCF Aircraft to Mexican Routes

Awesome Cargo's expansion into the US market includes a partnership with WestJet Cargo, which will see Boeing 737-800BCF aircraft operating on US-Mexico routes, starting in December 2023. This partnership signifies a strategic move to bolster air cargo capacity between the two nations, particularly focusing on routes that connect major cities like Los Angeles and Chicago. While the 737-800BCF's cargo capacity necessitates stopovers for extended routes to Latin America, it allows for greater fuel efficiency and operational flexibility compared to larger cargo planes.

The initiative is a response to growing demand for air freight services within North America, with e-commerce and increased international trade contributing to this upward trend. It's worth noting that this use of converted passenger aircraft is becoming a common practice for airlines looking for a more agile and cost-effective solution for their cargo operations. Whether the operational benefits of these converted aircraft outweigh any limitations in the long run remains to be seen. As cargo demand rises, airlines like WestJet and their partners need to prioritize efficiency and optimized routing to stay competitive and ensure goods move swiftly through the transport chain. This is certainly a fascinating trend in the aviation and logistics industries, hinting at the evolving landscape of cargo movements within North America.

The partnership between Awesome Cargo and WestJet Cargo, using Boeing 737-800BCF aircraft on US-Mexico routes, is a fascinating case study in adapting to the changing air cargo landscape. The Boeing 737-800BCF, a converted passenger plane, is increasingly popular as it offers a cost-effective way for airlines to expand their cargo capacity without large upfront investment. This conversion trend likely explains why WestJet has opted for this model, and perhaps explains some of Awesome Cargo's expansion plans.

The partnership introduces a level of operational flexibility for both carriers. Depending on the cargo demands at a particular time, the planes can be deployed more dynamically, potentially reducing the number of empty return flights. This kind of agility is crucial in the fast-paced world of air cargo, where responsiveness and efficiency are paramount. However, one must question if this kind of partnership will also lead to complications or slowdowns if both airlines need to adjust operational workflows to share planes.

The global air cargo market is expanding rapidly. This is fueled by the growth of e-commerce and a surge in international trade, and it presents an enormous opportunity for carriers. WestJet and Awesome Cargo, by choosing routes connecting the US and Mexico, are targeting a growing market with substantial import and export volumes. A significant portion of that trade involves perishable goods like berries and avocados, products that heavily rely on quick and reliable air transport. This could open the door for WestJet to participate in other related markets that might have a smaller cargo weight and possibly lower revenue. However, it will take some time to observe the practical impact of this on the profit margins of both carriers.

One of the key goals of this partnership is likely to improve the efficiency of cross-border cargo transport. A large portion of goods moving between the US and Mexico requires fast and reliable air transport. The combination of new routes and partnerships like this has the potential to boost flight frequency which will have impacts on pricing and cargo availability.

Felipe Ángeles International Airport has been conceived as a cargo hub, capable of handling a wide variety of goods, including sensitive items like pharmaceuticals and electronics. Its success will depend on whether it can meet the specialized facilities and customs protocols needed to handle these complex cargo types efficiently. The success of the airport and it's surrounding logistics sector is likely dependent on if it can streamline procedures and develop robust customs checkpoints for imports and exports to the US. It'll be interesting to see how Felipe Angeles manages security protocols and if this will slow the cargo handling process.

The US foreign charter permits bring increased complexities. Airlines will need to comply with a complicated set of rules and regulations, which could affect their efficiency. Increased air cargo operations create jobs not only in the aviation sector but across a wide range of related industries. The introduction of automated systems at Felipe Angeles could significantly accelerate the process of handling freight, making the airport even more competitive and streamlining the logistical process. However, it's unknown how such automation would integrate with the operational workflows of both carriers and if this will create bottlenecks.

This entire scenario poses several interesting questions. Will this partnership impact the overall logistics in the region? How efficient will the cargo process be under a shared-asset model? How will this development affect the future growth plans of both carriers? Ultimately, only time will tell how successful this partnership becomes. It will require close observation of both carriers and their ability to adapt and adjust their operational workflows to the complex demands of the cargo market.

Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Cross Border Air Freight Links Chicago O'Hare with Guadalajara

Awesome Cargo's expansion into the US market has led to a new air freight link between Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Guadalajara. This connection is facilitated by Awesome Cargo's partnership with WestJet Cargo, which brings Boeing 737-800BCF aircraft into service on the route. This development represents a notable boost in air cargo capacity between the US and Mexico, addressing the rising demand for freight services. This demand is spurred by factors like increased e-commerce and the growing volume of international trade.

With the introduction of these new flights, Felipe Ángeles International Airport is expected to play an increasingly important role in the logistics landscape. It remains to be seen how efficiently this newer airport will handle the additional freight movement and ultimately reshape the air cargo sector in North America. While the potential for streamlining logistics and fostering economic growth through these new links is significant, it's important to monitor how the operation unfolds to determine the full impact on businesses and consumers. The coming months and years will be crucial in assessing the effectiveness of this new air freight connection and understanding its broader implications for the US-Mexico trade relationship.

The new air freight link between Chicago O'Hare and Guadalajara presents an interesting opportunity for optimizing cargo flow between the US Midwest and Mexico. Chicago's central location offers a strategic advantage, potentially streamlining deliveries to both coasts and minimizing travel times from Guadalajara. The airport itself has a reputation for relatively quick cargo aircraft turnaround times, which could significantly boost the operational efficiency of this new route compared to other US airports that often suffer from extensive delays.

This route is clearly tapping into a substantial trade flow, with US-Mexico cargo volumes exceeding $600 billion annually. This route will likely benefit from the demand for expedited delivery of high-value goods like electronics and auto components. It is also noteworthy that a significant portion of air freight consists of perishable goods, such as Mexican avocados and berries. These require careful temperature control throughout transport. This new link might help streamline the transport of such sought-after produce to the US market, which would benefit both economies.

The decision to use the Boeing 737-800BCF is a pragmatic one from Awesome Cargo's perspective. The converted passenger jets provide a significant increase in payload capacity compared to standard passenger configurations, allowing them to potentially increase profits without incurring the massive costs of acquiring new cargo aircraft. It remains to be seen whether this approach will prove to be sustainable in the long run, particularly as larger freight aircraft become more prevalent.

However, the success of this venture is not without its challenges. US air cargo regulations, including customs and border patrol processes, add significant complexity to logistics and can significantly impact turnaround times and overall operational workflow. Failure to effectively manage the compliance aspects of the operation could slow things down or even make the operation financially unviable.

It's not only about the airlines though. Increased air freight is expected to fuel around a 2% annual growth in related logistics and services in both the US and Mexico. This could create job opportunities in warehousing, distribution, and related fields, potentially benefitting both economies in the long run.

The partnership between Awesome Cargo and WestJet Cargo is a prime example of how resource sharing can be a powerful tool in the aviation industry. This collaborative approach could potentially reduce operating costs by 15%, a significant advantage in the competitive air cargo market. It will be interesting to see how the airlines deal with shared resources and schedules going forward.

The use of modified passenger aircraft highlights a clear trend of adaptability in the air cargo market. E-commerce continues to drive the need for fast delivery times, and airlines that can rapidly adapt to changing demands by using existing aircraft for cargo operations are likely to thrive. However, it could be argued that reliance on converted passenger aircraft might be a short-term solution.

Reports suggest that Felipe Ángeles International Airport might introduce advanced automation for cargo handling. If implemented successfully, these technologies could lower labor costs and increase dispatch speeds, possibly establishing a new standard for cargo operations. This could make Felipe Angeles a more attractive option for airlines that value speed and efficiency in their logistics processes.


This new air freight route will require close observation. The long-term success of the partnership, the impact on the wider logistics sector, and the optimization of operational workflows will all influence how this new route performs in the competitive air cargo landscape. It will certainly be an interesting case study on how airlines can adapt to the growing demands of the air cargo market.

Awesome Cargo Expands North Mexican Carrier Plans 10 New US Routes from Mexico City and Guadalajara - Former Alitalia Airbus A330 Joins Mexican Cargo Fleet for US Operations

Awesome Cargo, in its quest to expand its US operations, has added a former Alitalia Airbus A330 to its fleet. This aircraft, now configured as a freighter, significantly expands AeroUnion's capacity, specifically designed to transport delicate and temperature-sensitive cargo. The change should make it easier for the airline to transport highly perishable goods like fresh produce, which likely plays a key role in their route planning. It’s part of a larger effort by the airline to upgrade its fleet, replacing older Boeing 767s with newer and more capable Airbus models.


This strategic move by Awesome Cargo coincides with its ambitious plan to establish new routes connecting Mexico City and Guadalajara with various US cities. The carrier is solidifying its position within the air freight sector, especially now that Felipe Angeles International Airport is becoming a key cargo hub. The airline's collaboration with Avianca Cargo further strengthens its network, but it’s not entirely clear how successful they will be in the crowded US market. There is strong competition from other players, and questions remain regarding the feasibility of their ambitious growth plans. The future will reveal how well they navigate this landscape and how Felipe Angeles will ultimately shape the air freight industry within the region. This development has the potential to significantly impact the flow of goods between Mexico and the US, potentially altering the economic landscape of both countries. However, the overall success hinges on the airline’s ability to efficiently utilize its expanded fleet and seamlessly integrate operations within the challenging North American market.

The former Alitalia Airbus A330, now in service with Awesome Cargo, is an interesting addition to their fleet. With a range exceeding 6,000 nautical miles, it's ideally suited for cargo operations across the Americas. It allows them to carry substantial quantities over long distances efficiently, which could be critical for their planned Latin American routes.

In contrast, the Boeing 737-800BCF operated in partnership with WestJet Cargo has a more limited cargo capacity, handling around 23,000 kilograms per flight. The adaptability of these converted passenger jets is intriguing. It seems like an approach to maximize existing assets while delaying major investments in new, dedicated freighters. It remains to be seen if this tactic will be a viable long-term strategy in the increasingly competitive air cargo industry.

Global airfreight is forecast to increase by 4.3% annually for the next ten years. This projection is mainly attributed to e-commerce and just-in-time inventory systems, reinforcing the need for faster delivery. This trend benefits air cargo, as goods can be transported across continents faster than via sea freight.

Mexico City and Guadalajara's central location within North America makes them significant logistics hubs. It's estimated that over 75% of the total air cargo between the US and Mexico passes through these two cities. This makes the expansion of Awesome Cargo and their choice of these cities as departure points very logical, from a logistical perspective.

Felipe Ángeles International Airport is well-equipped for this growing demand. With a design capacity of 1.1 million tons of cargo per year, it’s built with the growing demand for fast transport of goods in mind, and in particular, for perishable products and products that require prompt delivery, like the ones generated by e-commerce businesses.

The use of advanced technologies like automated cargo handling systems is crucial in making Felipe Ángeles more efficient. Studies show that these systems can potentially reduce operational costs by up to 30% while also boosting the speed of cargo handling, which would make the airport more attractive to airlines seeking to optimize their operations.

It's noteworthy that the collaboration with WestJet Cargo may help reduce operating costs for both airlines by up to 15%. This partnership illustrates a trend towards increased cooperation to leverage shared resources in the increasingly demanding air cargo market. One should expect that there will be logistical complexities and potentially conflicts as these two carriers share aircraft, and crews, and potentially ground crews.

The increased trade of perishables between the US and Mexico could become more important in the future. Mexico exports over 1.5 billion kilograms of avocados and berries each year to the US. This market underscores the importance of quick and efficient air transportation to maintain the quality of the products. This also opens a possibility for a carrier like Awesome Cargo to possibly branch out to other similar markets or increase frequency of flights for specific goods.


Chicago O'Hare has the potential to become an important location in this new air freight ecosystem. It's geographical location makes it suitable for reaching both the East and West coasts efficiently. The cargo infrastructure at Chicago O'Hare is designed for swift handling, which could help Awesome Cargo optimize their operations on that route. However, Chicago O'Hare is also known to have extensive ground operations issues at times, so it's not clear if this airport will provide the consistently smooth operations that would be necessary to make a new business like Awesome Cargo successful.

The air cargo industry is subject to stringent regulations and the landscape is changing quickly. Airlines like Awesome Cargo need to be mindful of these regulations. Meeting these requirements will significantly influence not only the time it takes for aircraft to turn around, but also the profitability of any new air routes. This compliance process needs to be implemented effectively, and if it is not done well, it could increase operational costs to a point where routes might become financially unviable.


The development of Awesome Cargo and their expansion plans are fascinating to watch. It will be interesting to see if they can overcome the challenges in the coming years, establish a firm position in the competitive air cargo industry, and contribute to the expansion of the North American trade network. It seems likely that both Mexico and the US will benefit economically from the increased connectivity, but the impact will likely depend on how well the airlines and airports operate and if the logistical challenges are solved efficiently.