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Restructuring Argentina's airline networks: Successes and challenges

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  • Keeling, David J.

Abstract

Argentina's aviation networks underwent significant restructuring after the 2015 election of President Mauricio Macri. Historically constrained by poor aviation infrastructure, economic uncertainty, currency devaluations, labor unrest, comparatively weak passenger demand, and operational barriers to low-cost carriers (LCCs), Argentina's airline networks have experienced deep restructuring in both providers and network interactions. With less than 0.3 trips per capita in Argentina, compared to 3.0 in the mature U.S. aviation market, analysts argue that there is significant potential for moving bus and automobile travelers to airlines, and to expanding Argentina's airline connectivity profitably throughout the region. LCCs such as Flybondi, Norwegian, Air Europa, Sky, JetSmart, and others are challenging long-standing transportation relationships in the region and developing new routes for consumers. A set of interlinked questions aims to understand Argentina's changing aviation geography. Comparing O-D data from 1972, 1982, 1996, and 2019, the results indicate a significant reorganization of Argentinas domestic and regional network interactions, with modest adjustments to its global north-south connections. Challenges include outcomes of a recent change in Argentina's government and the long-term impact of the global COVID19 pandemic on the aviation system.

Suggested Citation

  • Keeling, David J., 2020. "Restructuring Argentina's airline networks: Successes and challenges," Journal of Transport Geography, Elsevier, vol. 86(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:jotrge:v:86:y:2020:i:c:s0966692319309159
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2020.102761
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    2. Warnock-Smith, David & Christidis, Panayotis, 2021. "European Union-Latin America/Caribbean air transport connectivity and competitiveness in different air policy contexts," Journal of Transport Geography, Elsevier, vol. 92(C).

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