Houston Daily

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz of Texas' 15th district has sent a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, expressing concern over a recent Department of Transportation (DOT) order that will affect airline routes between the United States and Mexico. The order includes changes to the route connecting McAllen International Airport (MFE) and Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) in Mexico City.

De La Cruz stated that this connection has supported travel and economic growth for McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley. In her letter, she acknowledged that the DOT's action is part of broader enforcement against Mexico’s non-compliance with the 2015 Air Transport Agreement but warned of negative local consequences.

"While I understand this action is part of broader enforcement against Mexico’s non-compliance with the 2015 Air Transport Agreement, the elimination of this direct air service harms the City of McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley," De La Cruz wrote.

She highlighted McAllen International Airport's economic significance: "McAllen International Airport serves as a key economic engine for our region, generating over 8,400 direct jobs, $620 million in economic output, and $356 million in payroll impact in 2024."

De La Cruz also noted that "the cancellation of this route negatively impacts McAllen International Airport’s capability to continue to serve as a key airport. The airport serves an area that is growing twice as quickly as the rest of the U.S., and routes like this one are critical as the airport continues to grow and enhance their positive impact to our region."

She further explained: "This route helps ensure McAllen’s economic future, as our location on the border allows us to be a gateway for trade and business with Mexico. International routes, like the one canceled, can contribute up to $10 million annually in direct economic impact to our region. In addition to the economic impact, this will have negative consequences for families with loved ones on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border."

The congresswoman requested alternatives from DOT: "I respectfully request that the Department of Transportation explore targeted solutions that achieve the DOT's goal of ensuring compliance with the Air Transport Agreement without the cancellation of flights from McAllen International Airport."

De La Cruz concluded her letter by stating: "I look forward to working with you to resolve this issue."

Monica De La Cruz has represented Texas’ 15th district since replacing Vicente Gonzalez in 2023. She won re-election in 2024 against Michelle Vallejo with 57.1% of votes after previously defeating Vallejo in 2022.