Argentine Airline Files Lawsuit Against Air Traffic Controllers' Union

Aerolíneas Argentinas reported delays and schedule changes for dozens of flights, while low-cost airlines had to adjust their schedules to mitigate the impact on passengers. With the case already filed, Judge Rafecas must now assess the existence of criminal liabilities, define possible evidentiary measures, and determine if the union actions denounced constitute crimes related to air navigation safety. The complaint was filed on December 17, 2025, following the first day of the strike action. According to the judicial document, the air traffic controllers' strike impacted over 24,000 passengers through delays, rescheduling, and changes to domestic flights, creating a scenario that, according to EANA, transcends the labor conflict and enters the criminal realm by potentially compromising the safety of air operations. The state body, responsible for managing air navigation services in Argentina, stated that during the protest, interruptions of essential operational tasks and the placement of physical elements related to the strike action in critical facilities, such as control towers, occurred. Airlines reported delays, rescheduling, and partial cancellations, with varying impact depending on the operator. In support of its arguments, EANA provided images and documentation that were incorporated into the file, which is now under analysis by the federal court. The document also recalled the legal framework applicable to these situations and the rights and guarantees provided for in criminal proceedings, for both potential victims and witnesses, in accordance with Law 27.372 of the National Criminal Procedure Code. Meanwhile, from ATEPSA, the conflict was defended publicly through press releases and social media posts, where the union argued that the strike is a response to salary demands, reinstatement of fired workers, job stability, and operational conditions, in a context they describe as a staffing emergency at various airports across the country. Despite the legal complaint, the union announced that strike actions will continue throughout December, as part of a staggered strike schedule that will extend until December 29, increasing tension in the national aviation system. The strike began with a first time slot between 8 and 11 in the morning on Wednesday the 17th, affecting domestic flights throughout the territory.