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Argentina's Airline Strike: A Disruption to 30,000 Passengers and the Nation's Economy

Argentina's Airline Strike: A Disruption to 30,000 Passengers and the Nation's Economy
Saturday 14 September 2024 - 12:26
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A strike by pilots and crew demanding salary increases amidst Argentina's inflation crisis has left over 30,000 passengers stranded and disrupted the nation's aviation sector. The 24-hour strike, the second in a month, led to the cancelation of 319 flights, affecting domestic, regional, and international travel. 

Costa Rican tourist Alex Rodriguez, on his way to visit the iconic Iguazu Falls, was among those impacted. "We had planned this holiday months ago, and now it's all fallen through," he lamented.

The strike has highlighted the erosion of purchasing power for aviation staff, with the general secretary of the Association of Aeronautical Personnel, Juan Pablo Brey, stating that their income has decreased by 40% since President Javier Milei's austerity measures were implemented in December.

Milei's drastic austerity program, aimed at curbing chronic inflation and government overspending, has resulted in an annual inflation rate of 236.7%. The economic slowdown has hit Argentines hard, with cabin crew earning approximately $730 and ground staff earning half of what they could make at low-cost companies.

Aerolineas Argentinas criticized the strike as "untimely and abusive," while Milei's spokesman, Manuel Adorni, warned of fines and sanctions for those participating. Milei's attempts to privatize the airline as part of his economic reforms were met with resistance, forcing him to remove the company from the privatization list to gain parliamentary support.

The strike has brought attention to the challenges faced by Argentina's flagship airline and the broader economic struggles of the nation. As the country navigates its economic crisis, the impact of the strike on both passengers and the aviation industry is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges.


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