United and Mexicana are ending their relationship effective March 31, 2004. This move also signals the end for Mexicana’s participation in the Star Alliance.

What remains to be seen is just what’s driving the move. Is Mexicana going to merge with Aeromexico, a Skyteam partner? Is Mexicana looking for an equity investment from another (non-Star) carrier? Was United just looking for too many changes in their operating relationship, and Mexicana wouldn’t budget?

I don’t have the inside scoop on this one — which is unfortunate, because there goes my complimentary Red Carpet Club access via Gold status in the Frecuenta program…