Thousands of Travelers Stranded Across Chile, Colombia, Brazil, and Cape Verde as LATAM, Avianca, TACV, and Other Airlines Cancel 54 Flights and Cause Multiple Delays, Affecting Major Airports in Santiago, Bogotá, and São Pedro

Published on November 21, 2025

Thousands of travelers are facing major disruptions across Chile, Colombia, Brazil, and Cape Verde as LATAM, Avianca, TACV, and other airlines have been forced to cancel 54 flights, leading to widespread chaos at airports. These cancellations, along with multiple delays, have stranded passengers in key airports, including those in Santiago, Bogotá, and São Pedro. Travelers hoping to reach their destinations are left frustrated as flight schedules are upended and no immediate resolutions are in sight. With numerous flights grounded, affected passengers are scrambling to find alternatives, creating a ripple effect that stretches beyond the airports. The cancellations and delays are not only causing significant inconvenience but also raising questions about airline preparedness and communication. As the situation continues to unfold, thousands of travelers are left wondering when they will finally be able to return to their journey.

Affected Cities and Airports

The several cities and their corresponding airports. Santiago, the capital of Chile, is served by Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport. In Colombia, Bogotá is home to El Dorado International Airport, one of the busiest in the country. São Paulo, a major city in Brazil, is served by São Paulo-Congonhas Airport. Lastly, São Pedro, located in Cape Verde, is associated with the Sao Pedro Airport. These airports are key hubs in their respective countries, facilitating significant air traffic both domestically and internationally.

Flight Cancellations

Affected Airlines

The several prominent airlines, including LATAM, Avianca, and TACV. LATAM, a major airline group based in Chile, operates throughout Latin America and internationally. Avianca, based in Colombia, is one of the oldest airlines in the region, with a strong presence in South and Central America. TACV, also known as Transportes Aéreos de Cabo Verde, is the national carrier of Cape Verde and serves both domestic and international routes. These airlines are central to air travel across South America and Cape Verde, offering numerous flights connecting the major cities and airports listed in the table.

Overview of Flight Cancellations

The flight cancellations reflect significant disruptions across multiple airlines and airports. LATAM at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago, Chile reported 27 cancellations, or 12% of its flights. Avianca in Bogotá, Colombia had 14 cancellations, representing 2% of its flights at El Dorado International Airport. At São Paulo-Congonhas Airport in Brazil, LATAM Brasil canceled 5 flights, accounting for 2% of its operations. In Cape Verde, TACV at Sao Pedro Airport saw a much higher rate, with 8 flights cancelled, amounting to 47% of its total scheduled flights. These cancellations, along with various delays, have caused considerable disruption for thousands of travelers, particularly in regions where smaller carriers like TACV operate, which often face larger operational challenges. The affected airports and airlines indicate a mix of regional issues, staffing shortages, and potentially other operational challenges contributing to the cancellations and delays.

What to Do if Your Flight Gets Cancelled: A Quick Guide

Flight cancellations can be frustrating, but knowing the right steps to take can help minimize stress. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:

Stay Updated
Monitor your email, phone, and the airline’s app for rebooking confirmation or further announcements.

Stay Calm and Check for Updates
As soon as you learn your flight is canceled, stay calm and check for updates. Many airlines will notify you via text, email, or their app. Visit the airline’s website for real-time updates on the situation.

Contact the Airline
Reach out to the airline’s customer service either in person at the airport or over the phone. If you’re at the airport, head to the service desk. If you’re not, try calling or using the airline’s online chat system to avoid waiting in long queues.

Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cancellations. Many airlines offer rebooking options or compensation, especially if the cancellation is within their control. In the EU, for example, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain conditions.

Consider Alternative Flights
Ask the airline about the next available flight. If you can’t find a suitable option, consider booking a new flight through another airline, or check for other forms of transport like trains or buses.

The flight cancellations and delays across Chile, Colombia, Brazil, and Cape Verde have left thousands of travelers stranded, causing major disruptions at key airports in Santiago, Bogotá, and São Pedro. Airlines like LATAM, Avianca, and TACV have faced varying cancellation rates, with TACV particularly impacted. While the overall percentage of cancellations varies, the consequences for passengers remain significant, with many struggling to find alternatives. As airlines work to resolve the operational issues, affected travelers will continue to experience uncertainty, highlighting the need for better contingency planning and communication in the aviation industry.

Source: FlightAware and affected airports