Aerolíneas Argentinas Faces Massive Travel Chaos as 131 Flights Are Cancelled Amid Nationwide CGT Strike in Argentina, Impacting Brazil, Paraguay and Chile at Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Resistencia, San Carlos de Bariloche and More

Aerolíneas Argentinas is facing massive travel chaos as 131 flights have been cancelled amid a nationwide CGT strike in Argentina. This disruption is causing significant delays and confusion for passengers, with the strike affecting major airports and cities across the country. The CGT strike has crippled transportation services, making it difficult for Aerolíneas Argentinas to maintain its regular flight schedule. The cancellations are not only impacting Argentina, but also causing ripple effects in Brazil, Paraguay, and Chile. Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Resistencia, and San Carlos de Bariloche are among the most affected cities, where passengers are facing long waits and uncertainty.

As a result, Aerolíneas Argentinas is working to assist stranded passengers, offering refunds and rebooking options. The strike’s impact is expected to continue disrupting travel, particularly for those flying to and from South American destinations.

Total Cancellations and Delays

A massive 131 flight cancellations have been reported, representing a staggering 45% of Aerolineas Argentinas’ flights. Additionally, 5 flights have been delayed, which, while smaller in number, still reflects the widespread disruption to air travel. These cancellations and delays are creating chaos at airports across Argentina, with many passengers unable to travel as scheduled.

Key Reasons Behind the Disruptions

1. CGT Strike in Response to Labour Reform Bill
The strike was triggered by public opposition to the labour reform measures proposed by President Javier Milei’s government. Union leaders argue the legislation would weaken worker protections, restrict the right to strike and introduce changes to labour costs and working conditions. This political dispute formed the backdrop of the mass work stoppage.

2. Nationwide Transport Standstill
Transport unions joined the strike, affecting urban and long‑distance buses, trains and metro services. Many transport workers — including airport and ground‑handling staff — ceased operations, making it impossible for airlines to maintain scheduled services. This systemic shutdown directly impacted flight operations.

3. Pull‑Back of Operational Staff and Ground Services
Although essential navigation services like air traffic control were technically exempt (air navigation unions did not formally join), the absence or reduction of other necessary staff — airport ground crews, check‑in agents, baggage handlers — severely restricted normal operations. Airlines struggled to mobilise minimum teams, leading to widespread cancellations and delays.

4. Ripple Effects Across the Aviation Sector
Other carriers such as Flybondi and JetSmart also reported operational changes and cancellations due to the labour stoppage. While Aerolíneas Argentinas announced the largest single number of cancellations, the broader aviation network felt the impact of reduced staffing and transport chaos at major airports.

Airports, Cities, and Countries Affected

The impact of these cancellations and delays stretches across various key airports and cities within Argentina and beyond. Buenos Aires’ Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP), the primary hub for Aerolineas Argentinas, is seeing the highest number of affected flights. Passengers at Ministro Pistarini International (EZE), another major hub, are also facing massive delays. Flights departing from Ushuaia, Resistencia, and San Carlos de Bariloche have also been severely disrupted, leading to chaotic scenes at these smaller airports.

The CGT strike has led to transport gridlock across Argentina, with reduced ground services, closed check-in counters, and an absence of airport staff contributing to the delays. In addition to Argentina, regional routes across South America, including those to Brazil, Paraguay, and Chile, have felt the ripple effects.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

Passengers with Aerolineas Argentinas bookings should take immediate action to understand their options in light of the disruptions:

1. Check Flight Status

It is crucial for all affected passengers to check the status of their flights regularly. Aerolineas Argentinas recommends checking the airline’s official website or mobile app for real-time updates on cancellations or rescheduling.

2. Rebooking or Refunds

The airline has assured passengers that they can rebook flights or request full refunds for cancelled flights. Passengers are advised to reach out to Aerolineas Argentinas’ customer service or visit the airline’s official booking channels to make changes to their travel plans.

3. Travel Insurance

For those with travel insurance, contacting your insurance provider to see if you qualify for compensation is essential. Many travel insurance policies cover disruptions like cancellations and delays, providing passengers with financial support.

The Economic Impact of the Strike and Flight Disruptions

The CGT strike and resulting flight cancellations are not only affecting passengers but also causing financial strain on Aerolineas Argentinas. The airline has estimated a loss of around US$3 million, which includes compensation for passengers, operational disruptions, and the additional costs incurred to reschedule flights.

The economic toll of these cancellations also extends to Argentina’s tourism and business sectors, which rely on reliable air travel for both local and international connectivity. Business trips, as well as tourism-related travel, have been significantly affected, especially for those who planned to visit key cities like Buenos Aires, Iguazú Falls, and Mendoza.

Conclusion

Aerolíneas Argentinas has been severely impacted by the CGT general strike, which has caused 45% of flights to be cancelled, and delays to many others. The disruptions have created significant challenges for passengers, airlines, and the tourism sector as a whole. Passengers affected by these issues should stay updated on flight statuses and take the necessary steps to rebook or claim refunds. As the strike continues to disrupt transportation throughout Argentina, it is clear that these disruptions will have lasting effects on both local and international travel.

Source: FlightAware, MercoPress

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