Flight Delayed with Aerolíneas Argentinas? Here’s What You Should Know

Aerolíneas Argentinas is Argentina's national airline, connecting South America with North America and Europe. While the airline is known for its extensive route network, flight delays can still happen due to various reasons. If your flight was delayed for three hours or more, you may be entitled to compensation under European Regulation EC261/2004 or the Montreal Convention. Let's explore your rights and how you can claim compensation.

Why Do Aerolíneas Argentinas Flights Get Delayed?

Flight delays happen for a variety of reasons, some within the airline's control and others beyond it. Common causes include:

• Technical issues: Unexpected maintenance or mechanical problems.

• Crew shortages: Last-minute scheduling conflicts or flight crew delays.

• Air traffic congestion: Busy airports like Buenos Aires Ezeiza (EZE) or Madrid Barajas (MAD) can experience bottlenecks.

• Weather conditions: Fog, storms, or extreme heat affecting takeoff and landing schedules.

• Strikes: Airline staff or air traffic control strikes can cause major disruptions.

If the delay was caused by technical or operational failures, you may be eligible for compensation. However, if extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather or security risks were involved, compensation may not apply.

What Are Your Rights If Your Aerolíneas Argentinas Flight Is Delayed?

If your flight was delayed for at least three hours upon arrival and the cause was within the airline’s control, you could be entitled to financial compensation. Here’s what the EU regulation states:

Compensation Breakdown

• €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)

Additional Passenger Rights

If your delay exceeds two hours for short-haul flights or four hours for long-haul flights, Aerolíneas Argentinas must provide:

• Meals and refreshments

• Two free calls, emails, or messages

• Hotel accommodation if your delay requires an overnight stay

• Transportation to and from the hotel

Stuck at the Airport? Here’s What to Do

A long delay at the airport can be frustrating, but here are some steps to make the situation more manageable:

1. Check for Alternative Flights

If the delay is extreme, consider checking flights with LATAM, Iberia, or Air Europa, which operate similar long-haul routes between South America and Europe.

2. Look for Nearby Airports

If you're delayed at Buenos Aires Ezeiza (EZE), check flights from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP). Similarly, if you're flying from Madrid, consider flights from Barcelona (BCN) or Lisbon (LIS).

3. Know Your Right to Assistance

If Aerolíneas Argentinas does not immediately offer food or accommodation, request assistance at the airport. If they refuse, keep all receipts—you can claim reimbursement later.

4. Keep All Travel Documents

Save your boarding pass, booking confirmation, delay notifications, and any receipts for expenses. These will be necessary when filing a compensation claim.

How to Claim Compensation for an Aerolíneas Argentinas Flight Delay

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

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

• Your flight number and route

• The date of travel

• The total delay duration

Step 2: Submit Your Claim

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

Step 3: Get Paid

If your claim is successful, your compensation will be transferred directly to your account. Trouble Flight operates on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you only pay a commission if we win your case.

How to Avoid Flight Delays with Aerolíneas Argentinas

While delays are sometimes unavoidable, here are a few ways to reduce your chances of being affected:

• Book Early Morning Flights: Flights departing early in the day are less likely to be delayed.

• Check Flight Status Before Leaving: Use Aerolíneas Argentinas’ website or apps like FlightAware to track real-time status.

• Fly from Major Airports: Larger hubs like Buenos Aires Ezeiza have better backup options in case of issues.

• Choose Direct Flights When Possible: Avoiding layovers minimizes the risk of getting stranded.

• Join Frequent Flyer Programs: Elite status passengers may receive priority assistance in case of delays.

Final Thought

If your Aerolíneas Argentinas flight was delayed for more than three hours, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Check your eligibility today and claim what you’re owed!