Airline trust profile
Aerolíneas Argentinas AR
SkyTeam · Hub: Buenos Aires Ezeiza
At a glance
Key facts about this carrier
Aerolíneas Argentinas (AR) is Argentina's flag carrier and a SkyTeam member, operating domestic and international routes from Buenos Aires Ezeiza.
- SkyTeam member since 2012, the only South American airline in the alliance.
- Hub at Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires.
- Largest domestic network in Argentina with international service to the Americas and Europe.
- State-owned carrier providing essential connectivity across Argentina's vast geography.
Why this tier
Aerolineas Argentinas achieved its first operating surplus in 18 years in 2024-2025, posting $112.7 million without state transfers, and is undergoing fleet renewal with A330neo orders and new business class cabins. SkyTeam member since 2012 with a codeshare covering 140+ South American destinations via a partnership with LATAM launched in February 2025.
Strengths
- Dominant domestic network with 39 destinations inside Argentina plus 22 international points
- 99.4% flight completion factor in 2025 - strong operational reliability
- LATAM codeshare (Feb 2025) adds 140+ South American destinations with reciprocal mile earning
- Fleet modernization underway with A330neo, Boeing 737 MAX 800, and new business class
Watch-outs
- On-time rate around 80.5% in 2025 - average by global standards
- Long-haul product still behind top SkyTeam carriers despite cabin refresh
- Historical financial instability - profitability is recent and untested over full cycles
Best used for
- South America
Consultant intelligence
Operational notes
Hub and Connections
EZE (Buenos Aires Ezeiza) for international and AEP (Aeroparque Jorge Newbery) for domestic. No direct airside connection between EZE and AEP (45-60 minute ground transfer required). MCT at EZE is 120 minutes for international connections. SkyTeam partner connections via EZE. Domestic network from AEP covers all major Argentine cities.
Baggage
Bags check through on SkyTeam itineraries when ticketed together. EZE to AEP transfers require baggage reclaim and recheck plus ground transport between airports. Interline agreements with SkyTeam partners. Domestic Argentine flights include 1x15kg checked in most fares.
Terminal Notes
EZE Terminal A for Aerolineas Argentinas international flights. AEP single terminal for domestic. EZE Terminal A has been renovated but remains basic. Aerolineas lounges at EZE T-A and AEP. The EZE-AEP transfer is a major pain point for connecting passengers.
Operational Notes
State-owned carrier with periodic labor disputes that can cause disruptions. Argentine economic instability affects currency, pricing, and fuel availability. Fog at EZE and AEP causes delays in winter months (June through August). Patagonian routes (USH, FTE, BRC) are seasonal or frequency-reduced in winter. The airline has a limited long-haul fleet.
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