SENEAM Fees Overview

Servicios a la Navegación en el Espacio Aéreo Mexicano (SENEAM) fees apply when operating within Mexican airspace or using airports outside normal operating hours. These fees cover navigation services such as NAV aids, radio communications, and radar surveillance. Airspace fees are calculated based on wingspan and the great-circle distance traveled through Mexican airspace. Failure to settle these fees may result in being barred from Mexican airspace or detained on the ground.

What You Need to Know About SENEAM Fees

Understanding the Basics

Active enforcement of SENEAM fee collection began in March 2012. Operators can pay navigation fees during operations into Mexico via fuel uplifts, while overflight and overtime fees must be paid via bank transfers. These payments cannot be made on the ground. Operators must self-calculate these fees and pay in pesos. Engaging a third-party provider is recommended to ensure accuracy in calculations and compliance.

Airspace Use Fees

SENEAM airspace fees are determined by wingspan and the number of kilometers flown in Mexican airspace. Official route distances can be found online or obtained directly from SENEAM. Overflight fees can be paid directly to SENEAM, while fees for operations into Mexico are paid at the time of fuel uplifts. Note that fuel uplift payments cover only the fees for that specific operation and cannot be applied to other overflight fees.

Navigating Airport Overtime Fees

Overtime fees are charged at airports in Mexico that do not operate 24/7, such as Los Cabos (MMSD). These fees are in addition to airport overtime charges. Operators must pay both airport and SENEAM overtime fees to avoid future operational disruptions.

Authority and Updates

The Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT) oversees SENEAM fees. These fees tend to increase periodically, with the most recent adjustment occurring in April 2024.

Deadlines and Consequences of Late Payments

SENEAM fees must be paid by the 10th of the month following their incurrence. Payments not made by the 17th result in suspension from operating in Mexican airspace. Overpayments cannot be credited toward future fees, and refunds, if possible, may take months to process. Late payments can lead to being detained on the ground or denied entry into Mexico’s airspace.

How Third-Party Providers Can Help

Third-party providers can calculate and settle fees on your behalf, verify outstanding balances, and minimize operational disruptions by ensuring compliance.

Consequences of Unpaid SENEAM Fees

What Happens If Fees Are Unpaid

SENEAM maintains an internal suspension list, which is not publicly available. This list often includes over 300 operators with unpaid fees dating back to 2014. Operators are not notified of their suspension and may only discover it when denied entry into Mexican airspace or detained on the ground.

Detention Upon Landing in Mexico

If suspended, aircraft are detained on the ground until outstanding fees are paid. Processing delays are common, especially on weekends and holidays. Retaining documentation of fee payments is essential to prevent further delays.

Purchasing an Aircraft with Outstanding SENEAM Fees

When an aircraft is sold, the new owner becomes responsible for settling any outstanding SENEAM fees. It is critical to verify the fee status during the acquisition process. Outstanding fees, including late and “actualization” charges, must be paid before the suspension is lifted.

Universal’s Approach to Managing SENEAM Fees

Universal’s Global Regulatory Services, in partnership with the Universal Aviation Mexico team, has managed SENEAM fees for customers since 2012. Our services include verifying fee statuses, proactively addressing potential issues to avoid disruptions, and ensuring full regulatory compliance.

Key Considerations for Managing SENEAM Fees

• Leverage Third-Party Support: Engage third-party providers to handle fee calculations, payments, and verification to avoid errors and ensure compliance.
• Verify Fee Status Regularly: Confirm outstanding fees with SENEAM or your provider before every trip to Mexico.
• Retain Documentation: Keep records of all payments to prevent delays in future operations.
• Stay Proactive About Compliance: Unpaid fees can result in suspension, detention, or additional penalties. Address outstanding payments promptly.

Conclusion

Managing SENEAM fees is essential for seamless operations in and over Mexico. Timely and accurate payments prevent suspensions and detentions. Universal offers a proactive approach to minimize risks and streamline compliance. For further assistance, contact Universal’s Global Regulatory Services team.