Mexico's aviation agency faces FAA safety observations

Mexico’s Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) is working to address 21 technical, operational, and administrative observations issued by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The findings, part of the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) program conducted in August, involve the need to update norms, manuals, and circulars, as well as strengthening inspection, training, and personnel programs.

The National Institute of Aeronautical Legal Research (Inija) has expressed concern regarding the agency's ability to resolve these issues. Experts suggest that addressing the observations requires significant budgetary, technological, and human resources that may not be available under the current 2027 budget projections. Specifically, Inija noted that improvements in personnel require better salaries, and inspections require advanced technological equipment.

The FAA is scheduled to visit the AFAC in December to review progress on these observations, with the final audit results expected in February 2027.