Tensions Rise in Argentina’s Aviation Sector Over Possible Closure or Privatization of CIPE
A new controversy is emerging in Argentina’s aviation sector amid persistent rumors about the potential closure or privatization of the Centro de Instrucción, Perfeccionamiento y Experimentación (CIPE), a state-run institution with six decades of experience in training aviation technicians, including air traffic controllers and aeronautical information professionals. Marcelo Belelli, National Coordinator for the State Workers' Association (ATE) within the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC), voiced serious concern over the matter, warning of possible strike action at Ezeiza International Airport in the coming hours. He also raised alarms about the implications for operational safety and the future of aviation training in the country.
Belelli, a prominent advocate for the rights of public aviation sector workers and an active figure in aviation policy debates, claimed that the government’s intention "is a monopoly—not in the hands of the state, but in the hands of private interests, reportedly linked to the Undersecretary for Commercial Air Transport." This perspective is sparking anxiety among workers, who fear not only the loss of the 35 direct jobs at CIPE but also a decline in the quality and accessibility of training in critical aviation areas.
CIPE, which operates under ANAC, is considered a pillar of Argentina’s aviation system. Belelli and labor unions argue that dismantling or privatizing the center would contradict the government’s own anti-monopoly rhetoric. "The state would no longer have its own training center for its personnel and the industry as a whole, and would start paying private entities for training opportunities," Belelli said, calling the situation "highly inconsistent."
From the union’s perspective—led by Belelli at ATE ANAC—decisions about CIPE’s future are being made "behind closed doors, without any real consensus, and jeopardizing issues as sensitive as air safety." They argue that aviation training should not depend on "private entities with connections or influence peddling."
A Structural Crisis and Operational Safety Under Scrutiny
The concerns around CIPE are part of a broader "structural crisis" affecting Argentine aviation, according to Belelli. "We believe that for a long time, each part of the aviation system has been patched together without planning, and now each area faces serious limitations," he said.
He cited recent incidents that reveal alleged system shortcomings. Among them was a TCAS resolution event (Traffic Collision Avoidance System) on January 18 involving Flybondi and Aerolíneas Argentinas aircraft near Buenos Aires, currently under investigation by the Transportation Safety Board (JST).
Belelli also recalled a runway incursion at Ezeiza Airport in December involving a Flybondi aircraft (operated by Albastar) and another from GOL Linhas Aéreas, stating that "a ground collision was narrowly avoided by just a few meters."
Criticism also targets the management of air navigation services, overseen by the Argentine Air Navigation Company (EANA). One issue is the handling of approaches for San Fernando and Aeroparque airports by the Aeroparque tower, despite heavier traffic volumes and the underutilization of San Fernando’s full capabilities.
Belelli further criticized past leadership at both ANAC and EANA, mentioning Paola Tamburelli and Gabriela Logatto respectively, accusing them of allowing personal rivalries or political ambitions to interfere with improvements. "When they reached positions of power, their only concern was their own political careers," he stated.
Union Stance: Resistance with Conditional Openness to Dialogue
In response to this scenario, unions across the sector—including ATEPSA (Technical and Safety Workers in Air Navigation) and the Argentine Association of Aircrew (AAA), led by Juan Pablo Brey—are preparing for a "phase of firm resistance." However, they clarify that their stance is not one of blanket opposition to change.
"We are open to any process of transformation in aviation, the state, and the institutions where we are represented. But it is the government’s responsibility to provide the necessary spaces for that to happen. When it doesn’t, it’s because it has interests it cannot admit," said Belelli. He stressed that public policy should be shaped through dialogue and consensus, not imposition.
The unions criticize the lack of authentic forums for discussion where necessary reforms can be addressed, emphasizing the value of human capital and safety. In this regard, comparisons were drawn with countries like Chile, Uruguay, and even the United States, where the FAA maintains a strong state role in oversight, regulation, and training services.
Union leaders say their goal is to present a "coherent, serious, and rational public message," distancing themselves from conflict for conflict’s sake. "We are neither part of the elite nor mercenaries for confrontation. We are workers organizing to defend our rights," Belelli concluded, calling for self-reflection among the country’s political class to restore trust and tackle the sector’s deeper issues.
Comentarios
Para comentar, debés estar registrado
Por favor, iniciá sesión