México

The Mexican aviation sector is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, serving as a strategic hub between the Americas and Europe. Air traffic is centralized through the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), alongside major tourism hubs such as Cancún and Guadalajara. Regulation is overseen by the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC), which operates under the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transport (SICT). Consumer protection standards are enforced by PROFECO (*Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor*), which holds the legal authority to mediate disputes between passengers and airlines.

Passenger rights in Mexico are governed by the Civil Aviation Law (*Ley de Aviación Civil*).

• Delays:
• 1 to 4 hours: The airline must provide discounts for future flights and/or food and beverages.
• Over 4 hours: This is considered a cancellation, and the corresponding compensations apply.
• Cancellations/Denied Boarding: The airline must offer:
• A refund of the ticket price + minimum compensation of 25%.
• Transport on the next available flight + food, communication, and hotel accommodation (if necessary).
• Transport on a later date with minimum compensation of 25%.
• Compensation: Indemnity payments must be settled within a maximum of 10 days following the claim, unless the passenger explicitly accepts vouchers as an alternative.

Under current legislation, airlines are required to allow the free transport of carry-on baggage, provided it does not exceed 10 kg (on domestic flights) and meets standard dimensions (typically 55x40x25 cm).

• Checked Baggage: Policies vary according to the chosen fare class. Airlines must clearly state the weight and dimensions included in the contract of carriage.
• Valuables: The carrier is liable for loss or damage to checked baggage, with liability limits calculated in UMAS (*Unidad de Medida y Actualización*).

The entry of dogs and cats is regulated by SENASICA (*Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria*):

• Health Certificate: Must be issued by an official or licensed veterinarian, dated no more than 15 days prior to arrival.
• Vaccination: Proof of valid rabies vaccination is mandatory.
• Inspection: Upon arrival in Mexico, pets undergo a free inspection by OISA personnel (*Oficina de Inspección de Sanidad Agropecuaria*). If the pet does not meet the requirements, the owner is responsible for the costs of quarantine or return to the country of origin.

• Unaccompanied Minors: Must carry authorization notarized or issued by the National Migration Institute (SAM - *Sistema de Autorización de Menores*).
• Gratuity: Children under 2 years old (infants) are exempt from seat fares but must be registered and carry proper documentation.
• Rights: Airlines must prioritize boarding for families with young children and ensure that unaccompanied minors receive continuous assistance.

The General Law for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities guarantees:

• Priority: Priority service during check-in, security, and boarding.
• Equipment: Free transport of wheelchairs and mobility assistance.
• Discounts: Seniors who are residents of Mexico (holding an INAPAM card) are entitled to guaranteed discounts on various domestic airfares. Foreign nationals should consult specific airline policies regarding special assistance.

• Passport: Must have a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry.
• FMM (Multiple Immigration Form): In 2026, Mexico digitized entry for most visitors. It is essential to complete the online form prior to arrival.
• Visas: Brazilian citizens do not require a tourist visa if they hold a valid visa from the USA, Canada, Japan, the UK, or the Schengen Area. Otherwise, it is mandatory to apply for an Electronic Authorization (SAE) or a physical visa at a consulate.
• ETIAS/ETA: Mexico does not require ETIAS (European system) or ETA (Canadian system). The country operates under its own immigration border control regulations via the National Migration Institute.

• Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC): https://www.gob.mx/afac
• Federal Consumer Protection Office (PROFECO): https://www.gob.mx/profeco
• National Health Service (SENASICA - Pets): https://www.gob.mx/senasica
• National Migration Institute (Entry Requirements): https://www.gob.mx/inm
• Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (Visas): https://www.gob.mx/sre