The Formula Aerolíneas Argentinas Uses to Fly to Destinations That Don't Fill Up
/https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/embraer_e190_aerolineas_argentinas.JPG)
Aerolíneas Argentinas is implementing a business model called the Sustainable Connectivity Program, designed to keep air routes operational that, due to low demand or seasonality, do not reach the profitability threshold on their own.
This scheme is based on bilateral agreements with provincial governments or municipalities, which guarantee a minimum occupancy to ensure the economic viability of the flights.
The most recent example of this program is the resumption of flights between Buenos Aires and Río Cuarto, in the province of Córdoba. The service, which was suspended in June due to works at the local airport, will be active again starting November 1st with three weekly frequencies on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The agreement will run until March 31, 2026.
According to a statement from Aerolíneas Argentinas, this mechanism improves the company's efficiency and fosters a mutual commitment to the commercial and tourism development of the destination. In the case of Río Cuarto, the agreement stipulates that if flight occupancy does not reach 80%, the municipality will cover the difference with provincial funds. If the percentage is exceeded, no payment is made.
This type of public-private partnership is not new for the company. Other destinations like Merlo (San Luis) are also part of the program, which allowed a seasonal route to become a year-round operation.
The ultimate goal is twofold: on one hand, Aerolíneas Argentinas ensures the sustainability and profitability of its operations; on the other, provinces and municipalities benefit from the arrival of flights, tourism promotion, and the economic development generated by air connectivity.
The Sustainable Connectivity Program thus presents itself as a strategic tool to maintain a federal flight network, connecting parts of the country where demand does not justify a full-risk operation by the airline but which are key to regional economies.
Para comentar, debés estar registradoPor favor, iniciá sesión