Overview of Argentina’s Domestic Airlines: The “Big 3” Carriers Compared

Argentina’s domestic air market is evolving — historically dominated by Aerolíneas Argentinas, but now sharing the stage with two active low-cost carriers. Market share as of January 2025:

• Aerolíneas Argentinas: ~59 %

• Flybondi: ~23 %

• Jetsmart: ~17 %Combined, the low-costs now carry ~40 % of domestic passengers — a significant leap over recent years.

  
  

Additionally, Humming Airways launched in early 2025, offering small regional commuter flights — useful for off-the-beaten-path travel.

Finally, under President Milei’s “open skies” policy, the government is encouraging foreign airlines (e.g., LATAM, Gol, Air Canada) to enter the domestic market, aiming to boost competition and service quality.

The “Big 3” Carriers Compared

👑 Aerolíneas Argentinas

• Reliability & Service: The national flag carrier consistently ranks highest for punctuality and lowest for cancellations among the trio. Reddit users frequently describe it as “mucho más cómodo” and “nunca tuve un problema” .

• Pricing: Slightly higher, but includes 15 kg checked baggage and onboard soft drink service. Additional fees for over‑weight luggage (up to 23 kg) are affordable .

• Routes: Extensive domestic coverage and recently turning its first net profit (~US $32 million in 2023) reuters.com.

• Caveats: Airlines remain susceptible to route/frequency shifts and occasional airport changes within Buenos Aires — but friendly social‑media support helps manage changes.

  
  

Best for: those prioritizing reliability, luggage inclusion, and smoother operations — ideal for travellers on tight schedules.

💸 Jetsmart

• Fleet & Capacity: Modern Airbus A320/A321neo with recent fleet expansions for summer 2025.

• Pricing: Typically lower fare, with extra costs for bags, seat choice, etc. A baggage package option is available during booking or online check‑in.

• Reliability: Mostly stable. Although some users report minor re‑schedules, many travellers say they’ve experienced “nunca tuve ningún problema” .

• Customer Service: Accessible via social media DMs; one free itinerary change is common .

Best for: budget-savvy tourists comfortable with flying light and flexible schedules, yet still seeking relative reliability.

⚠️ Flybondi

• Price: The lowest fares of all, ideal for minimal‑baggage travel .

• Reliability Issues: Frequently rated among the worst globally for cancellations/delays. Reddit is filled with horror stories — e.g.: “Flybondi anda para la mierda… no te devuelven nada… te reprograman con poca antelación”

It has even been ranked 3rd worst worldwide by FlightAware.

• Customer Service: Largely unresponsive; refunds are slow. Credit card disputes often become necessary .

Best for: travellers on ultra‑low budgets who can absorb significant delays or cancellations—and are flexible with plans.

🗺️ New Entrant: Humming Airways

• Focus: Regional commuter service on small aircraft, connecting interior cities (Venado Tuerto, Olavarría, Tandil, etc.) from Aeroparque.

• Ideal for: expats exploring less-touristy regions without routing via Buenos Aires.

  
  

🧭 Travel Tips & Best Practices

1. Plan Flexibility: Expect sudden time or airport changes, especially in Buenos Aires. Add buffer days or plan only one flight-heavy day per destination.

2. Monitor & Respond Early: Download airline apps, bookmark your PNR, and watch social media; many changes can be resolved smoothly.

3. Choose Airports Smartly:

   • I prefer Aeroparque (AEP) for domestic flights — it's closer, less crowded, and more convenient than Ezeiza (EZE).

4. Check-In Extra: Bring snacks and water — onboard offerings are minimal or paid on budget airlines.

5. Luggage Strategy:

   • Aerolíneas includes 15 kg checked.

   • Low-costs require pre-paid baggage to avoid high fees or last-minute frustration.

6. Have a Backup: Consider booking a refundable bus ticket (e.g., via Busbud), especially if your flight is crucial.

7. Track Market Changes:

   • Foreign carriers may soon fly domestic routes.

   • Humming Airways is a niche but growing option for certain regions.

   • Privatization efforts around Aerolíneas could shift dynamics

     
     

📊 Quick Decision Table

Airline	Fare Level	Reliability	Baggage	Best Use Case
Aerolíneas Argentinas	Mid–high	★★★★☆	15 kg included	Timed itineraries, comfort, peace of mind
Jetsmart	Budget	★★★☆☆	Optional add-on	Budget travellers with flexibility & tech-savvy
Flybondi	Ultra-low	★★☆☆☆	Barebones	Cheap fares for very flexible travellers
Humming Airways	Niche	TBD	Small aircraft	Quick regional hops out of Buenos Aires

✅ Final Tips for Travelers & Expats

• Pair flights with Google Flights, Kayak or Skyscanner to optimize routing and buffer times.

• Always double-check itineraries — many travellers have been rerouted through different airports or had times changed.

• Bring essentials — snacks, entertainment, and hygiene items, especially on budget carriers.

• If you're on a strict schedule (e.g., connecting flights, tours), fly with Aerolíneas or pack significant leeway into your schedule.

• Love a bargain and don’t mind unpredictability? Use Flybondi—but only if cancellations are part of the plan.

• Prefer affordability with better service? Jetsmart is the happy balance.

  
  

By balancing cost, comfort, and confidence, you’ll maximize your Argentine travel experience—minus the stress of domestic flight dramas. And with the market opening to outside competition, options are only improving.