The aviation sector in Argentina is facing significant disruption as the Asociación Técnicos y Empleados de Protección y Seguridad a la Aeronavegación (Atepsa), the union representing air traffic controllers, has announced a schedule of strikes commencing Thursday, February 26, and lasting until the first week of March. This industrial action is driven by demands for better salaries and working conditions, and it is expected to cause widespread delays and rescheduling across all airports in the country.

Unlike previous protests, this strike is anticipated to have systemic effects on aviation operations, as it will hinder the authorization of aircraft on the ground and disrupt the reception of flight plans. As a result, airlines are currently awaiting the outcome of an assembly set to be held on Tuesday to develop a contingency plan to manage the anticipated impact and minimize disruptions for travelers.

The announcement of these strikes has raised concerns within Argentina’s aviation industry, as large-scale disruptions would not only affect travelers but could also have long-term implications for the sector's recovery and stability post-pandemic. As tensions escalate between the union and government authorities, the situation poses challenges for airline operations and passenger services, highlighting the ongoing struggles within labor relations in Argentina's aviation sector.