ATE-ANAC workers launch airport strikes over wage and funding disputes

ATE-ANAC workers began a staggered strike at Ezeiza and Aeroparque airports on November 13, 2026, to protest wage freezes and insufficient funding for the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). The protest commenced at 6:00 and involves both ground staff and administrative personnel. This industrial action aims to address long-standing disputes regarding sector-specific collective bargaining and operational budgets.

Operational impacts and protest methods

The current protest utilizes a strategy described as a Japanese-style strike to minimize total flight cancellations while maximizing operational disruption. Ground staff are strictly applying all existing regulations and protocols to cause operational delays. This method ensures that flights are not canceled but face significant scheduling issues due to rigorous adherence to safety and administrative procedures. Simultaneously, administrative staff are conducting a work slowdown throughout the day.

María Mercedes Cabezas, the Deputy General Secretary of ATE, stated that the measure includes simultaneous components involving ground control strictness and administrative work slowdowns. The union intends to escalate these actions to international bodies, with reports indicating an intent to send official notes to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Wage disputes and agency funding

The union is protesting a lack of funding for the operational areas of ANAC despite the air commerce sector experiencing record passenger numbers. According to the union, ANAC generates revenue exceeding 220,000 million pesos. Despite these high revenues, workers report that a portion of their salaries has been frozen since early 2026. Furthermore, the union claims that workers have gone three years without sector-specific collective bargaining agreements.

Marcelo Beleli, the National Coordinator of ATE-ANAC, said the protest aims to expose the agency's crisis while prioritizing operational safety by strictly following protocols. The union's grievances highlight a disconnect between the high volume of air traffic and the financial support provided to the regulatory agency.

Future stages of industrial action

The current protest is part of a broader, staggered action plan designed by the union to maintain pressure on authorities. The second stage of this plan is scheduled to take place from November 16 to November 20, 2026. This upcoming phase will involve work slowdowns specifically targeting fire extinction services at all airports across the country.

The union's position has been supported by references to the dignity of work in recent documentation. Specifically, union documents have cited Pope Leo XIV regarding the necessity of unions and the dignity of labor. The ongoing dispute reflects growing tension between aviation workers and regulatory management amidst a period of significant growth in passenger numbers.

Glossary

• Ezeiza — Ezeiza is located near the Buenos Aires international airport. It is a location where large crowds can congregate.
• collective bargaining — Collective bargaining refers to the negotiation of agreements by unions. The Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security ratifies these agreements.
• National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) — The National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) is a certifying body for air taxi and non-scheduled airlines. It operates under the Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulations (RBAC) No. 135.
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) — The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is an organization that took over regulation in 1947. It works to internationally standardise biometric identification technologies, such as iris scanning, for use in e-passports.