Argentina: Aerolíneas Argentinas and Latam cancel May 29 flights /update 2

Event

On Monday, May 27, Aerolíneas Argentinas and Latam announced that all services scheduled for Wednesday, May 29, have been canceled. The flights were suspended ahead of the upcoming 24-hour general strike on Wednesday organized by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), which aviation unions are participating in. At least 330 flights have been canceled, affecting an estimated 45,000 passengers. Other airlines, such as American Airlines, Flybondi, and JetSmart, are still expected to operate during the strike. A heightened demand for flights is expected on Tuesday, May 28, and associated residual disruptions are likely after May 29. 

The CGT called for the nationwide general strike to protest the economic and social policies of President Mauricio Macri's administration. Associated demonstrations will likely take place in major urban areas around the country, particularly in Buenos Aires. A heightened security presence, commercial disruptions, and associated transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of any demonstration.

Context

The Asociacion Trabajadores del Estado (ATE), along with Central de Trabajadores de la Argentina (CTAA) and other workers unions, recently staged a general strike on May 15, to denounce protesting President Mauricio Macri's policy proposals towards workers. The planned strike on May 29 would mark the fifth such work stoppage by CGT member since Macri took office.

Advice

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to confirm flight reservations, maintain flexible itineraries, and to contact their airline for additional information.

Individuals in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.