Texas Border Business
Something new is taking shape that could change how people in the Rio Grande Valley travel, do business, and connect across the border. Local leaders say this development could strengthen regional ties and create new opportunities for visitors and residents alike. Why are officials calling it an important moment for the community? Discover what’s behind the excitement and why this announcement could matter more than many people realize. Subscribe for Free and read the article.
New McAllen–Monterrey flight strengthens cross-border travel and connections across Mexico
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas — City leaders and aviation officials announced a new nonstop flight between McAllen, Texas, and Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico during a press conference at McAllen International Airport, describing the route as a major step forward for regional connectivity and cross-border travel.
The daily service will be operated by Monterrey-based airline AERUS beginning March 27, with introductory fares starting at $185 one way, including taxes.
AERUS CEO Javier Herrera said the route will strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two cities while creating new travel options beyond Monterrey.
“Today it is my honor to officially announce the launch of our new direct route between Monterrey, Nuevo León, and McAllen, Texas,” Herrera said. “This new route represents far more than simply a new flight. It represents a bridge between two communities that have long been closely connected economically, culturally, and socially.”
Flights will operate on Cessna Caravan EX aircraft. Herrera said the airline has completed nearly 22,000 flights since launching about three years ago and maintains an on-time performance of about 95 percent.
Through AERUS’ partnership with Viva, passengers arriving in Monterrey will be able to connect to more than 30 destinations across Mexico and internationally, allowing travelers from the Rio Grande Valley to fly to Monterrey and continue to cities throughout the country.
McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos said expanding air service is critical to the city’s growth.
“When we talk about McAllen, we talk about connectivity. We talk about business,” Villalobos said. “So whether you’re coming to McAllen for work, for play, or entertainment, we need this, and we keep working to provide it.”
City Manager Ike Tawil said the airport is a major economic driver for the region.
“The McAllen International Airport is a critical link in the chain that drives the McAllen economy,” Tawil said.
Tawil cited a recent economic impact study estimating the airport generates about $1.2 billion in regional economic activity. He also noted March sales tax allocations increased about 5.5 percent compared with the same month last year.
Airport Director of Aviation Jeremy Santoscoy said the route responds to demand from the region’s business community and travelers.
“McAllen International Airport is proud to welcome AERUS to our city,” Santoscoy said. “This new nonstop service will give our travelers an important international destination like Monterrey.”
Jesús Cano, representing the Mexican Consulate in McAllen, said the route reflects the strong economic relationship between the United States and Mexico.
“The opening of this new route between McAllen and Monterrey reflects the deep economic and social integration that exists between our two regions,” Cano said.
He noted that trade between the two countries exceeded $1 trillion in 2024 and 2025, making Mexico the United States’ largest trading partner.
Officials said the flight is also expected to support travel in both directions, as Monterrey and other cities in Mexico remain key sources of visitors to McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley for shopping, business, medical services, and tourism.
The new route will also provide additional access ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when Monterrey will serve as one of the host cities.
City leaders said the service strengthens a long-standing cross-border relationship while giving Rio Grande Valley travelers easier access to Monterrey and the rest of Mexico.
