ANAC Restricts Flybondi After 79% of Flights Cancelled

Why did Brazil's aviation authority restrict Flybondi?

Brazil's National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) launched a precautionary measure against Argentine low-cost carrier Flybondi after monitoring revealed a sharp deterioration in the airline's operational capacity. Between 1 and 27 July 2026, Flybondi cancelled 79% of its scheduled flights in Brazil — a figure that triggered immediate regulatory action.

Investigators also flagged discrepancies between the flights registered in ANAC's system and those actually operated, a continuous drop in operations throughout 2026, and a surge in passenger complaints about refunds, flight changes, and poor customer support channels.

What exactly is Flybondi now banned from doing?

The injunction, which took effect on Wednesday 29 July, blocks Flybondi from:

• Selling tickets to Brazilian destinations it has not yet effectively served: Florianópolis (SC), Maceió (AL) and Salvador (BA).
• Expanding its registered route network — no new destinations, frequencies or operations may be added.

Additionally, ticket sales for the Buenos Aires–Rio de Janeiro (Galeão) route will be suspended from 3 August 2026 unless the airline proves by that date that it has implemented operational adjustments sufficient to guarantee service regularity.

What happens to passengers who already bought tickets?

Existing tickets are not affected by the measure. If a flight is cancelled, Flybondi remains legally responsible for offering passengers free rebooking or a full refund. ANAC specifies that refunds must be processed within seven days of the request.

Can the restriction be lifted?

Yes. ANAC stated the measure can be reviewed or revoked if Flybondi presents evidence of restored operational capacity, adequate passenger assistance, and compliance with regulatory obligations. This is not the first time the airline has faced ANAC action over delays and cancellations in Brazil.