The City of McAllen is mounting an effort to preserve its direct air connection to Mexico City after the U.S. Department of Transportation ordered the cancellation of 13 Mexican-carrier routes to the United States — including Aeroméxico’s flight between McAllen and Mexico City’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport.

City Manager Isaac J. Tawil said McAllen is working closely with federal congressional leaders to safeguard a route he called “a vital economic artery that supports commerce, tourism, and family connections across our binational region.”

“This route has been a strong performer for McAllen and the entire Rio Grande Valley,” Tawil said. “We recognize the importance of protecting the livelihoods of our constituents and the economic momentum we’ve built together.”

McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos described the federal government’s decision as a setback for the city’s cross-border economy.