Trump administration orders Delta, Aeromexico to unwind joint venture by Jan. 1

Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration has ordered Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico to terminate their joint venture by January 1, due to concerns over anticompetitive effects in the U.S.-Mexico market [1][2]. Group 1: Government Action - The Transportation Department stated that the joint venture creates an unfair advantage for Delta and Aeromexico, leading to potential harm for consumers and stakeholders [2]. - The Biden administration had previously considered withdrawing antitrust immunity for the joint venture, which began in 2016, amid ongoing complaints regarding competition between the U.S. and Mexico [4]. Group 2: Company Responses - Delta Air Lines expressed disappointment over the decision, claiming it would significantly harm U.S. jobs, communities, and consumers traveling between the U.S. and Mexico [3]. - Aeromexico stated that it would continue to offer flights on each other's airline and maintain frequent flyer program reciprocity despite the order [3]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The airlines argued that the partnership generated $310 million for the U.S. economy and that unwinding it would result in a loss of economic benefits, allowing competitors to capture the market [5]. - The order does not affect Delta's 20% equity stake in Aeromexico [5].