The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomes the decision by the Government of Argentina to liberalize the country’s aviation market. The landmark decree 599/2024 establishes new regulations for access to Argentina’s commercial aviation market, repeals previous regulations and modifies the country’s Aeronautical Code.
The new decree allows, for example, free market access for new operators through streamlined administrative procedures. Domestic air fares are to be deregulated, while internationally Argentina has already signed agreements promoting Open Skies with Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Uruguay and Canada.
The new regulations also permit more competition for airport and ground handling services, allowing airlines to select their preferred service providers for both passenger and cargo operations This has been a long-standing request from the industry and brings Argentina in-line with global best practices.
Under the new decree, capacity allocation procedures at some congested airports in the country will be aligned with the globally valid Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines (WASG). The Secretary of Transport will also coordinate the active participation of airlines, airports, and other industry stakeholders in decision-making processes.
“I congratulate the Government of Argentina on this landmark decision. The announced changes will foster a more competitive and efficient aviation market in the country. Air transport plays a critical role for Argentina’s economy, sustaining an estimated 536,000 jobs and $25 billion of the country’s GDP. This new policy should allow the sector to further increase its contribution to the country’s economy. More importantly, Argentina’s citizens will benefit from better access to affordable air travel, more jobs will be created and enhanced social wellbeing”, said Peter Cerdá, IATA’s Regional Vice President for the Americas.
IATA has been closely involved in the discussions leading to these regulatory changes and is pleased to see global best practices incorporated into the new regulations and looks forward to continuing its collaboration with authorities in Argentina and industry stakeholders. A detailed discussion on these developments will take place at the upcoming Aviation Day for Argentina on 5 September 2024 in Buenos Aires.
