Aerolíneas Argentinas has informed Argentina’s Ministry of Economy that it will not request any government transfers during 2025, marking a historic milestone for the state-owned airline since its renationalization in 2008. According to the company, this outcome is the result of a set of measures aimed at improving its operational balance. At the end of 2023, the airline had also announced it was on track to post a profit for the first time in 15 years.

The airline reported that between 2008 and 2023, it received approximately USD 8 billion in transfers from the State, primarily to cover EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) deficits, the industry-standard metric for evaluating operational profitability. On average, the company incurred annual losses of USD 400 million, based on its own records.

In contrast, Aerolíneas reported an operating surplus of USD 20.2 million in 2024, along with a positive economic result of ARS 156.3 billion—equivalent to over USD 150 million. The company noted that both figures are currently under review by international consulting firm KPMG, with official validation expected in the coming months.

The airline attributed this turnaround to a major restructuring effort, which included a 15% reduction in staff, bringing headcount to its lowest level in 15 years. Over 1,600 employees left the company, and 85 management roles were eliminated, including 8 director positions, 20 managerial roles, and over 50 administrative posts.

Additionally, Aerolíneas streamlined its route network, focusing on high-performing routes and discontinuing non-profitable services. As part of this strategy, the airline signed commercial cooperation agreements with Iberia and LATAM to strengthen connectivity with Spain and South America’s Southern Cone.

As part of its organizational overhaul, the airline also confirmed the closure of 19 out of its 21 regional branches. As of April 30, offices in Formosa, Trelew, Santa Fe, Bariloche, Corrientes, Río Gallegos, and Río Grande will close, followed by Mar del Plata and Tucumán on May 30. Only branches in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza will remain operational. According to the airline, this decision is based on the decline in in-person ticket sales, which now account for just 1% of total transactions, amid a steady rise in digital sales.

Aerolíneas Argentinas stated that these results mark the beginning of a new phase focused on efficiency, cost control, and financial self-sufficiency, potentially paving the way for a future privatization process.