Travelers Stranded Across Colombia, Brazil, and Chile as Avianca and LATAM Airlines Experience 31 Flight Cancellations and Multiple Delays, Disrupting Major Airports in Santiago, Medellín, and São Paulo

Published on November 22, 2025

Travelers have been stranded across Colombia, Brazil, and Chile as Avianca and LATAM Airlines face significant disruptions. Both airlines have experienced a total of 31 flight cancellations and numerous delays, causing widespread inconvenience. Major airports in Santiago, Medellín, and São Paulo have been severely affected, leaving passengers frustrated and scrambling for alternative arrangements. This chaotic situation has resulted in long waits, uncertainty, and confusion for many travelers. As the cancellations continue to mount, passengers are finding it difficult to get timely updates or reliable rebooking options. The ripple effects are being felt across the region as these major airports struggle to manage the growing backlog. This series of disruptions highlights the vulnerability of air travel in the face of unforeseen issues, leaving thousands of passengers in limbo. Both Avianca and LATAM Airlines are under pressure to resolve the situation swiftly and minimize further impact.

Affected Cities and Airports

The several cities and their respective airports. In Chile, the Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport is located in Santiago. In Colombia, the José María Córdova International Airport serves the city of Medellín. Lastly, in Brazil, São Paulo-Congonhas Airport is situated in São Paulo. These major airports are experiencing significant disruptions due to flight cancellations and delays caused by Avianca and LATAM Airlines.

Flight Cancellations

Affected Airlines

The three airlines: LATAM, Avianca, and LATAM Brasil. LATAM is a major airline operating across several countries in South America, including flights from Santiago and São Paulo-Congonhas. Avianca, based in Colombia, also plays a key role in the region, with operations at José María Córdova International Airport in Medellín. LATAM Brasil is a subsidiary of LATAM Airlines and specifically operates flights within Brazil, including from São Paulo-Congonhas. These airlines have faced disruptions recently, including flight cancellations and delays, affecting passengers across various airports in South America.

Overview of Flight Cancellations

The significant flight cancellations across major airports in Santiago, Medellín, and São Paulo. At Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport in Santiago, LATAM Airlines experienced the highest number of cancellations, with 23 flights cancelled, accounting for 11% of its scheduled flights. In Medellín, Avianca had 4 cancellations at José María Córdova International Airport, representing 3% of its total flights. LATAM Brasil, operating from São Paulo-Congonhas in São Paulo, had 4 cancellations as well, but this made up only 1% of its flights. Overall, LATAM Airlines faced the largest disruption, particularly at Santiago’s airport, while Avianca and LATAM Brasil experienced fewer cancellations. These disruptions have caused significant delays and inconveniences for passengers, highlighting the challenges faced by airlines in managing flight operations during times of peak demand or unforeseen circumstances.

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 at major airports in Santiago, Medellín, and São Paulo have caused considerable disruption for travelers across Chile, Colombia, and Brazil. LATAM Airlines and Avianca were the most affected, with LATAM facing the largest number of cancellations, particularly in Santiago. While the cancellations accounted for a small percentage of total flights at other airports, the impact on affected passengers was significant, leaving many stranded or facing delays. This situation underscores the challenges airlines face in maintaining smooth operations, especially during peak travel periods or unforeseen disruptions.

Source: FlightAware and affected airports