A custom-built Advance Passenger Information (API) system, developed by ARINC for the Mexico Tax Administration (SAT) Customs Bureau, has become the preferred API system among airlines operating in the country. More than half the major airlines serving Mexico have switched from a competitor to ARINC’s API service in the last 12 months. 

Network carriers such as TACA, COPA, LAN Airlines, Virgin America, United Airlines, Continental, Spirit, American, Delta Airlines, and others are now using ARINC as their API service provider, accounting for over 60% of the country’s API data message traffic. ARINC expects this volume of traffic to increase even further as more airlines take advantage of its pricing structure and service reliability.

Advance Passenger Information systems have become mandatory in a growing number of countries, as border security becomes a major concern. Airlines are required to forward a detailed list of all passengers and crew on each flight, well in advance of arrival or departure. This allows more time for proper screening by government authorities. API requirements are also being extended to cover maritime travel and surface transportation.