Argentina simplifies airline licensing: financial declarations now replace full documentation requirements
The measure, signed by the Subsecretary of Air Transport, applies to passenger and cargo services, as well as all ground handling (ramp) companies seeking to begin operations.
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The Argentine government has intensified its policy of deregulating the aviation sector. Under Provision 16/2025, the Subsecretariat of Air Transport has ruled that companies seeking to operate air transport or ground handling services in Argentina will no longer be required to submit extensive financial documentation. Instead, a single “Sworn Statement of Economic–Financial Capacity” signed by the applicant will now suffice.
The measure, signed by Subsecretary of Air Transport Hernán Adrián Gómez, marks a sharp departure from the previous procedure. It nullifies the requirements set out in ANAC Resolution No. 1025/2016, which mandated the submission of a large volume of supporting documentation—a process that demanded significant resources and time.
Previously, companies had to undergo a strict viability assessment before starting operations. This included proving their ability to cover all fixed and variable costs for the first three months without revenue, and demonstrating sustainability for two years. Required documents included three years of audited financial statements, corporate structure records, shareholder lists, and funding sources.
Central to the process was the creation of a comprehensive business plan covering everything from market and competitor analysis to commercial strategy, pricing policies, and sales channels. An operational plan was also mandatory, specifying routes, frequencies, fleet details, and often letters of intent or lease contract drafts.
The financial projection component spanned 24 months and had to include detailed cash flow forecasts, balance sheets, and income statements, with a breakdown of costs such as fuel, maintenance, airport fees, crew salaries, and ground services.
All of this was to be certified by a public accountant, verifying the actual availability of sufficient liquid assets to support the critical launch phase—a complex structure now replaced by a simplified sworn statement.
The decision is grounded in the legal framework of Emergency Decree (DNU) 70/23 and its regulatory follow-up, Decree No. 599/24. The government argues that “Argentina’s aviation policy has significantly hindered the development of the air transport industry—a key driver not only of federal integration but also of economic and tourism growth.”
The objective of this streamlining, according to the published provision, is to create a more flexible and competitive environment. The text notes that national public administration interventions will be “limited and efficient, with a digital/electronic format.” The rule applies broadly to individuals or legal entities seeking permits for domestic or international passenger and/or cargo flights—regular and non-regular—as well as airport and ground service providers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Regulation:
- What’s changing with the new provision?
The requirement to submit multiple financial documents and detailed business plans is replaced by a single sworn declaration of solvency. - Who is affected by this measure?
All companies applying to operate as airlines (passenger or cargo) and those offering ramp and aircraft support services at Argentine airports. - Why did the government implement this change?
According to Provision 16/2025, the goal is to reduce bureaucracy, speed up the approval process, and attract new market entrants, aligning with its broader economic deregulation policy.
For ground services, the rule is especially relevant, as the provision notes that “no prior regulations precisely defined the required documentation for applicants to prove their economic and financial capacity,” creating a gap that this new simplified process aims to address.
Despite the relaxed entry requirements, the Subsecretariat clarified that oversight will continue. Authorities will keep monitoring the financial status of national air carriers operating in Argentina. The measure has been communicated to ANAC for implementation and was published in the Official Gazette, taking immediate effect.
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