Flight Cancelled with Aerolíneas Argentinas? Here’s What You Need to Know

Aerolíneas Argentinas is the national carrier of Argentina, connecting the country to destinations across South America, North America, and Europe. While it is known for its extensive network and affordable fares, flight cancellations can still occur due to operational issues, technical problems, or strikes. If your flight was cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation under European Regulation EC261/2004 or the Montreal Convention.

Why Do Aerolíneas Argentinas Flights Get Cancelled?

Cancellations happen for various reasons, some within the airline’s control and others beyond it. Common causes include:

• Technical issues: Unforeseen maintenance problems that make the aircraft unfit for travel.

• Operational challenges: Crew shortages, scheduling conflicts, or logistical failures.

• Strikes: Airline staff or air traffic control strikes affecting flight operations.

• Weather conditions: Heavy storms, fog, or extreme temperatures that impact flight safety.

• Government restrictions: Airspace closures, visa restrictions, or political instability.

While some of these reasons (like bad weather) fall under extraordinary circumstances—meaning compensation may not apply—cancellations caused by technical or operational failures could make you eligible for a payout of up to €600 per passenger.

Your Rights When Aerolíneas Argentinas Cancels Your Flight

Under EC261/2004, if your flight originated from Europe or was operated by an EU-based airline, you are entitled to:

• A full refund or an alternative flight at no extra cost.

• Meals and refreshments while waiting for rebooking.

• Hotel accommodation (if the alternative flight departs the next day).

• Transport to and from the hotel if needed.

• Financial compensation, if applicable.

Compensation Breakdown

If your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure, and it was not due to extraordinary circumstances, here’s how much you could claim:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Buenos Aires to Córdoba).

• €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km (e.g., Buenos Aires to Lima).

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Madrid to Buenos Aires).

If you were offered an alternative flight that arrives only slightly later than your original flight, the compensation may be reduced by 50%.

Stuck at the Airport? Here’s What to Do

Flight cancellations can be stressful, but here are some practical steps to take:

1. Check for Alternative Flights

If Aerolíneas Argentinas cannot offer a suitable rebooking, look for flights with other airlines. LATAM, Iberia, and Air Europa often operate similar long-haul routes between South America and Europe. If you were flying within Argentina, check domestic alternatives like Flybondi or JetSMART.

2. Consider Nearby Airports

If your flight from Buenos Aires Ezeiza (EZE) was cancelled, check for options from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP). Similarly, if you were flying from Madrid, you might find alternative flights from Barcelona or Lisbon.

3. Know Your Right to Assistance

If your new flight departs much later, Aerolíneas Argentinas must provide food, drinks, and accommodation if necessary. Ask the airline to arrange these services; if they refuse, keep your receipts and claim reimbursement later.

4. Save All Travel Documents

Keep your booking confirmation, cancellation notice, boarding pass, and any written communication from the airline. These will be essential when filing a compensation claim.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Aerolíneas Argentinas Flight

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Use the Trouble Flight Compensation Calculator to see if your flight qualifies. You’ll need:

• Your flight details (date, number, and route)

• Proof of cancellation

• Whether the airline offered an alternative flight

Step 2: Submit Your Claim

If you’re eligible, Trouble Flight will handle your claim, negotiating directly with Aerolíneas Argentinas.

Step 3: Receive Your Compensation

If your claim is successful, you’ll receive the payout directly into your bank account. Trouble Flight works on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you only pay a commission if we win your case.

How to Avoid Flight Cancellations with Aerolíneas Argentinas

While you can’t prevent cancellations, you can reduce the risk of being affected:

• Book Direct Flights: The fewer connections, the lower the risk of disruptions.

• Fly from Major Airports: Larger hubs like Buenos Aires Ezeiza have better backup options than smaller airports.

• Check Flight Status Before Leaving: Use Aerolíneas Argentinas’ website or flight-tracking apps for real-time updates.

• Choose Morning Flights: Early flights are less likely to be affected by delays or cancellations compared to evening departures.

• Join Frequent Flyer Programs: Loyalty members sometimes receive priority rebooking.

Final Thought

A cancelled Aerolíneas Argentinas flight doesn’t have to mean losing time and money. If your flight was cancelled under the right conditions, you could be owed up to €600 in compensation. Check your eligibility today and claim what you’re entitled to!