Argentina Surpasses Brazil, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico in Aviation Growth in Latin America with Eighteen Percent Increase in International Passenger Numbers and a Record Over Thirty Million Passengers in 2025

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In 2025, Argentina surpassed Brazil, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico in aviation growth within Latin America, achieving an impressive 18% increase in international passenger numbers and setting a record with over 33 million passengers. This remarkable growth is attributed to Argentina’s expansion of international routes, the addition of new airlines to the market, and the country’s open skies policy, which has fostered greater connectivity and attracted more global travelers. These factors have positioned Argentina as a leader in the region’s aviation industry, contributing significantly to its economic growth and enhancing its competitive edge in Latin American air travel.

However, the progress made in 2025 is now at risk. The Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have urged the Argentine government, particularly the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC), to reconsider two recently introduced resolutions—258/2026 and 265/2026. These new regulations, if allowed to stand, could undo much of the advancement made by Argentina’s aviation sector, threatening its competitiveness and growth momentum in the region.

Argentina’s Aviation Achievements in 2025

The year 2025 marked a record-breaking period for Argentina’s aviation sector. The country led Latin America and the Caribbean with an impressive 18% growth in international passenger numbers, surpassing regional aviation giants such as Brazil, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico. Argentina’s airlines transported a total of 33.3 million passengers—setting a new benchmark for the industry. This growth was not only in terms of passenger numbers but also in the expansion of routes. Argentina added 50 new international routes and attracted five new airlines to its market. This expansion was further supported by the country’s open skies policy, which has been lauded by ALTA as a model of good regulatory practice for the region.

These accomplishments contributed significantly to Argentina’s economy, with aviation and tourism together generating an estimated USD 9.1 billion—about 1.4% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The sector also provided approximately 147,000 jobs. The early months of 2026 indicate that this momentum is expected to continue, with a 19.6% growth in international passenger traffic during the first quarter of the year.

The Impact of ANAC Resolutions 258/2026 and 265/2026

However, two recent measures adopted by ANAC have raised alarms within the industry. Resolutions 258/2026 and 265/2026, which have increased various aviation-related fees, present significant challenges for the sector and threaten to undermine the progress made in recent years.

ANAC Resolution 258/2026 introduces substantial increases to security fees across all types of flights. Domestic flight security fees have risen from $20 to $6,500 pesos, regional flights have seen an increase from USD 4.42 to USD 5, and international flight security fees have increased from USD 8 to USD 9. These increases are compounded by Resolution 265/2026, which raises air navigation fees charged by EANA (the Argentine Air Navigation Company) by 15% for international flights and a staggering 359% for domestic flights. These fee hikes place immense financial strain on the aviation industry, already grappling with high operational costs.

Before these increases, passengers flying from Buenos Aires to Miami were already paying approximately US$76 in fixed taxes and fees, which was significantly higher than regional counterparts. For example, passengers flying from São Paulo, Brazil, paid just US$12.90 in fees, while those flying from Santiago, Chile, paid US$25. The new fee increases will only exacerbate this disparity, placing Argentina at a competitive disadvantage in the regional market.

Compounding Challenges: Rising Jet Fuel Costs

The industry is already facing additional pressures due to the rising cost of jet fuel, largely driven by geopolitical instability in the Middle East. The combination of increasing fuel prices and rising government-imposed fees threatens to push the airline industry to the brink. Airlines, which operate on razor-thin profit margins, are already being forced to reduce routes and cease operations in response to these financial challenges.

Lack of Consultation with the Industry

One of the most concerning aspects of the implementation of these resolutions is the lack of consultation with the aviation industry and its representative associations. The measures were adopted without any prior discussions with airlines, contravening the principles set out in Document 9082 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), to which Argentina is a signatory. ICAO emphasizes the importance of consultation and transparency in regulatory changes within the aviation industry. Furthermore, the Argentine authorities had recently assured industry representatives during a virtual meeting, held just days before the resolutions were announced, that such consultations would take place.

Given these circumstances, ALTA, IATA, and other stakeholders in the aviation sector are calling for an immediate review of the measures. ALTA has expressed its concern that the Argentine government, which has publicly emphasized its commitment to enhancing competitiveness and supporting the private sector, has approved these substantial fee hikes without the necessary technical analysis and consultation with the industry.

The Economic and Competitive Risks

The implementation of these resolutions poses serious risks to Argentina’s regional competitiveness. With the increased cost of doing business in Argentina, airlines are likely to scale back operations, reducing the country’s connectivity with key international markets. This loss of connectivity could ultimately harm not just the aviation industry but also the wider economy, including tourism, a vital sector that relies heavily on air travel.

Argentina’s aviation industry has long been seen as a model for regional development, with its open skies policy and growth-driven regulatory framework. However, these new measures could undermine that success. If the current course is maintained, the country may find itself losing its competitive edge in the region, making it harder to attract international airlines and tourists.

A Call for Transparency and Dialogue

In light of the challenges posed by the new resolutions, ALTA is urging ANAC to reconsider its decisions and engage in an open and transparent review process. The organization has called for clarity on the costs being imposed on passengers and a detailed explanation of how the additional revenue from these fees will be allocated.

ALTA remains confident that President Javier Milei’s government, which has committed to fostering competitiveness and strengthening the private sector, will take the necessary steps to reverse these measures. A more balanced approach, one that involves dialogue with the industry, is essential for maintaining Argentina’s position as a regional leader in aviation.

Conclusion

The recent ANAC resolutions 258/2026 and 265/2026 represent a significant challenge for Argentina’s aviation sector. These measures threaten to reverse the remarkable progress made in 2025, which saw Argentina emerge as a leader in passenger growth and international connectivity. The increased fees, coupled with rising jet fuel costs, create a perfect storm of challenges for the industry. ALTA is calling on the Argentine government to engage in transparent dialogue with the sector, ensuring that future decisions support the continued growth and competitiveness of Argentina’s aviation industry.

In 2025, Argentina surpassed Brazil, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico in aviation growth, achieving an 18% increase in international passenger numbers and a record 33 million passengers, driven by expanded routes, new airlines, and an open skies policy.

In conclusion, Argentina’s aviation sector has demonstrated impressive growth in 2025, surpassing key regional competitors and setting a new benchmark with 33 million passengers. This success highlights the effectiveness of strategic investments in international connectivity, the welcoming of new airlines, and progressive policies like open skies. As the country continues to build on this momentum, its aviation industry is well-positioned to drive further economic growth, enhance regional competitiveness, and strengthen its global standing in the years to come.