Direct flights to Mexico City coming to Calgary next year

Aeromexico will begin operating daily non-stop flights between Calgary and Mexico City on June 1, airport officials announced Thursday.

Along with making sun seekers happy, Calgary Airport Authority CEO and presidentGarthAtkinson says the move will be a boon for business.

"This service connects Calgary with Mexico's primary business centre and creates additional opportunities for companies in Alberta involved in a number of industries important to both this province and Mexico, notably the agrifood and energy sectors," he said in a release.

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"Through Aeromexico's extensive network in Central and South America, Alberta businesses also gain enhanced access to those markets."

The flights will arrive and depart from the newly-opened international terminal and will be the only non-stop service to Calgary from Mexico City.

The additional tourism and other benefits will create the equivalent of 300 jobs and generate $46 million in economic output for the province, said Minister of Culture and Tourism Ricardo Miranda.

"This is a great opportunity to market Alberta as a world-class tourism destination and a strong trade partner," he said in a release.

"Mexico is a key tourism, trade, and investment market for Alberta, and increasing air access to our province is critical to help diversify our economy, create jobs and grow Alberta's tourism sector."

Aeromexico will operate its Boeing 737-800 aircraft on the route, which seats 160 passengers.

Clase Premier Aeromexico's business class will be available and flights will arrive in Calgary at 10:30 p.m. and depart for Mexico City at 11:30 p.m. each day.