Volaris announced on Thursday that it has made a temporary request for a wet lease of up to seven aircraft for a limited period of up to 43 days. This decision aims to ensure that the travel plans of its customers are met during the busy holiday season.
The airline stated that this arrangement, combined with the arrival of three new Airbus aircraft in the coming days, will safeguard passengers flying to reunite with their loved ones during the December festivities. In a statement, Volaris defended the measure, which was validated by the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC), despite some discontent from the pilot community in Mexico over concerns that crews might be foreign.
Volaris explained that the decision was prompted by an increase in the number of planned inspections for NEO engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, scheduled for December 2025 and January 2026. These inspections are expected to exceed initial projections, significantly reducing aircraft availability for the current peak season. As a result, some planes may be grounded for over seven months due to these necessary checks.
Both Volaris and competing airline Viva have utilized similar aircraft leasing models from Malta to address operational challenges. Regarding workforce implications, the airline emphasized its commitment to its employees and the Aviation Industry Workers Union (STIA), assuring that “there will be no impact on the workforce,” meaning that no employee will see a reduction in their working hours or earnings.
Furthermore, all flights operated under this temporary arrangement will include Volaris crew members. Volaris highlighted that this procedure is in compliance with various legal frameworks and aviation regulations, emphasizing that their actions conform to the provisions of international aviation agreements and national laws.
This week, the AFAC also confirmed that the authorization does not violate any laws, clarifying that the operations will be conducted by a Mexican airline using authorized aircraft without foreign operators’ involvement.