A strike called by one of Latam's pilots' unions has led to the cancellation of 173 flights and affected about 20,000 passengers from November 12 to 17. This happens right before the November 16 elections, raising government concerns over connectivity impacts, especially in southern Chile. The airline states that nearly all affected passengers already have travel solutions.
The strike began on Tuesday, November 12, forcing Latam to cancel or reschedule flights booked until November 17, coinciding with the presidential and parliamentary elections on Sunday the 16th. According to a company statement, 173 flights and around 20,000 passengers are impacted, mainly on routes from or to Santiago and cities such as Arica, La Serena, Copiapó, Iquique, Punta Arenas, Antofagasta, Temuco, Puerto Montt, Concepción, Calama, and Balmaceda.
The government, through the Ministry of Transport, has voiced concern over the dispute, which Minister Juan Carlos Muñoz describes as an issue between 'a private company and one of its unions' in a deregulated market. 'It worries us as a country, especially in a context where air transport plays a fundamental role in providing connectivity in some Chilean cities, for example in southern cities,' Muñoz stated. The ministry is monitoring the situation and hopes for a swift resolution, noting that the strike affects less than 10% of passengers traveling to or within Chile.
Latam has enacted a contingency plan, offering affected passengers rescheduling within 24 hours of their original flight, date or flight changes at no cost, or full refunds. 'We are making a tremendous effort to provide the best available solution for all passengers affected by this situation, maintaining the country's connectivity, particularly in those territories that need it most,' said Paulo Miranda, Vice President of Customers at Latam Airlines Group. However, users have reported delays in responses on social media and difficulties, such as needing to buy expensive alternative tickets or extra accommodation costs.
Santiago Airport advises checking flight status on Latam's website before heading there. The company reaffirms its willingness to dialogue with the union to reach a beneficial agreement.