PAX On Location: Exploring “untouched” Quito with Aeromexico

“Quito is untouched,” says Michele Martinson, director of sales in Canada for Aeromexico. “Our goal is to grow the market with tourism here and this is all done by working with Quito Tourism to continually try and let people experience the city.”

Aeromexico did just that by inviting media and tour operators on a FAM this month (May 13th-17th) to experience the airline’s South American service to Quito, Ecuador and various wonders within the destination.

Nestled in the Old Town at an altitude of 2,850 metres, PAX was hosted by Hotel Mama Chuchara, a new boutique property by locally-based Art Hotels. 

Working in collaboration with Visit Quito, the jam-packed itinerary featured a mix of significant landmarks, ecotourism (such as hikes within local communities), and local getaways to Otavalo and Cotacachi (each about two hours away from Quito).

Aeromexico has shifted their approach to connect Mexico with more international destinations.

The airline operates more international routes than domestic flights with a forthcoming direct service to Barcelona, which takes flight June 15th.

Service to Quito via Mexico City commenced in 2013 with daily early morning departures and evening service five times per week.

Aeromexico also recently introduced service to Guayaquil, Ecuador. Termed “the gateway to the Galapagos,” direct flights are available via Mexico City three times per week.

The Aeromexico treatment

PAX was given the full Aeromexico treatment from Toronto to Quito with a connection in Mexico City. Passengers travelling to Quito can fly comfortably in economy, premium economy or business on all routes between Canada and Quito, deemed by Martinson as the ultimate “product differentiator.”

“We are a Latin-based carrier with a different personality that is displayed on board as well as with our service,” said Martinson. “With full service on board, whether you are in business or coach – tequila is always a good selling point.”

If you want the vibe of a Latin destination in your cabin, it starts here. 

Aeromexico’s Mundo Premier concept includes access to Salon Premier lounges with private workspaces, complimentary snacks, full-service bars, and executive meeting rooms. This space is easily accessible while connecting in Mexico City (passes are also available for purchase). 

The VIP Terraza Premier by Heineken offers comfort and class with an exclusive view of the fleet.

In-flight service includes complimentary messaging for all passengers on Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and iMessage on 29 of the airline’s 737-800 fleet. Passengers also have the option of upgrading their internet service to include browsing and streaming.

Canada to Quito

Aeromexico operates twice daily flights to Mexico City from Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Travellers have the opportunity to catch a red-eye or connect and arrive in Quito on the same day.

“[Quito] is still big enough and has a great vibe for people who like the city feel,” Martinson told PAX, noting the city's untapped eco-tourism scene. 

For us, exploring Quito's eco-tourism scene included a memorable visit to Yunguilla Reserve, which is about an hour from Quito in an Andean cloud forest. 

Aeromexico will be returning to Calgary with their seasonal YYC to MEX route, connecting more Canadians to South America. The single flight service will be offered from Friday to Monday beginning May 31st to September 2nd. 

The airline also gives passengers the opportunity to explore Mexico while connecting to other destinations at no additional cost. All fares out of Canada allow for a two-day stopover in Mexico before reaching their final destination.

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