The upcoming launch of the air route between Chihuahua and El Paso will strengthen the capital’s international connectivity and facilitate the arrival of U.S. tourists—a market with higher spending power and economic impact for the state—according to José Jordán Orozco, the municipality’s Director of Economic Development and Competitiveness.
The official explained that the project is in its final stage, having secured virtually all necessary authorizations from the Federal Civil Aviation Agency to begin direct flight operations between the capital and El Paso, Texas.
“We are on the verge of getting it started. It is very important for tourism because it will be a much simpler way to promote American tourism to Chihuahua,” Director Jordán noted.
He also highlighted that a key benefit of this new route is the higher level of spending and economic impact generated by visitors from the United States; this will positively affect not only the capital but also other destinations in the state, such as the Sierra Tarahumara.
Jordán Orozco pointed out that a significant segment of U.S. tourists currently does not visit Chihuahua due to the inconvenience of road travel from the border and travel alerts issued by U.S. authorities, underscoring the importance of a direct flight as a more efficient and attractive alternative.
“We believe that a large number of American tourists stay away precisely because of convenience issues. The flight will be a highly efficient way to offer them an option that encourages them to visit Chihuahua more often,” he commented.
The Director of Economic Development added that the municipal government is also working to secure new direct air routes to the United States, specifically to airports in Phoenix, Arizona, and Los Angeles, California.
However, he acknowledged that establishing new international connections is a complex process requiring the coordinated participation of authorities, airlines, airports, and the private sector.
He explained that there are currently limitations regarding aircraft availability and airport operational capacity—factors that make it difficult to finalize new routes in the short term. “It is a team effort between the government and the private sector. It is not an easy task; opening and consolidating a new route can take months or even years,” concluded Director José Jordán Orozco.
Source: oem
