Last Updated on October 6, 2025
Viva Airlines, also known as Viva Aerobus, is an airline that probably isn’t on your radar – but maybe it should be. In the name of discovery (and a great deal) I took a flight with Viva Airlines to see if it was worth it. In this Viva Airlines review I’ll walk you through my experience was from booking to landing and let you know if I think it’s worth flying.
About Viva Airlines
Viva Airlines is a Mexican ultra low-cost carrier (ULCC) headquartered in Apodaca, Nuevo León. Its main base is Monterrey International Airport (MTY), with hubs in Cancun, Guadalajara, Los Cabos, Mérida, México City, and Tijuana. Beginning service in 2006 Viva Airlines has service throughout Mexico and to Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, and the United States.
Like many ULCCs Viva Airlines operates a tiered fare system. The cheapest fares (sometimes as low as $63 between US and Mexico) include only one personal item such as a backpack or purse. Seat selection, carry on bags, and checked bags are an extra fee.
That said, don’t mistake their low prices for old planes. Viva Airlines operates one of the youngest fleets in Latin America. According to their website, they operate an 83 aircraft fleet comprised of Airbus 320s and 321s. They have made a point to modernize their fleet, ordering 90 new Airbus 321s in 2023.
Booking A Viva Airlines Flight
Booking was straightforward, and you can search flights on Google (usually what I do) or on the Viva’s website itself. Once you’ve found the flight you want you can select your fare class, and click through the add-ons they try to upsell you.
There is a $6 dollar “guest checkout fee” but that can be waived by creating a free loyalty account.
The only thing that was different was a portion where it asks you if you are a Mexican national or permanent resident. This will be important later.
Viva Airlines Check-in & Boarding Experience
Check in was smooth through the mobile app. I flew with my wife and it did put us in different rows since we didn’t pay for seat assignments.
I flew out of Houston IAH and had no trouble finding my gate, though it was in a part of the terminal I’d never been to.
The only difference from other airlines I’ve flown is that we had to queue twice: once for passport check, and then a second time to actually board. Luckily, our flight wasn’t full, and the attendant allowed me to move to an empty seat next to my wife.
Cabin Experience
My plane had a standard 3-3 seating layout. I was in the last row so my seat had no recline (and I don’t believe others did either). The seats were basic, but modern and clean. I found myself pleasantly surprised with the cabin. I think they did a really good job in the refit making the cabin comfortable and fresh.
There was no seatback entertainment or charging ports, but that’s to be expected for an ULCC. For our travel charger recommendations click here!
In-flight experience
The inflight experience was uneventful (in a good way). There was a refreshment cart that came down the aisle that had food and beverages for purchase. There was a menu in the seat back. I had packed a snack, so I don’t get anything.
The 2 hour flight to Mexico City was smooth, quick, and on time.
Viva Airlines Prices & the Non-Resident Fee
Now I know what you are thinking. Is it really that cheap? The answer is sort of.
It depends on if you are Mexican national or permanent resident. Remember how I said that would be importantly later?
When I got to checkout my price has increased by $44. Upon inspecting the basket it showed a single compulsory fee called UK | Non-resident fee. It cannot be removed unless you select that you are a Mexican national or permanent resident.
This fee is imposed by the Mexican government on all foreign nationals and non permanent residents. Viva has no control over it and is required to abide by Mexican aviation regulations.
Even though Viva has no control over this, it still seems a little deceptive. What looked like a $63 flight is actually $107. I would prefer they would build it into the price like the legacy carriers do, or then subtract it for Mexican nationals, making it easier for comparisons.
It’s not enough to make me not fly with them, but it is something you need to be mindful of when comparing flight prices.
Final Verdict
So is Viva Airlines worth it? In a word, yes.
It’s not luxury, but it’s reliable, modern, and affordable. Boarding was easy. The cabin was clean and comfortable. I arrived safely. All things I want from an airline. My only complaint is the addition of the entry fee to the advertised fare.
Given my pleasant experience, I would absolutely fly Viva Airlines again. If you are based in Texas like me, it can be an especially good option, as there are many short hop flights to Mexican destinations.
Next time you look to plan a trip to Mexico, check out Viva Airlines. You may be pleasantly surprised.
