Air Deregulation in Action
Monday, August 10, 2026.
Economist and former official Fede Sturzenegger celebrated the addition of new air routes in the province of Neuquén through his X (Twitter) account. In his post on August 10, 2026, Sturzenegger highlighted that these new connections are a tangible example of the Aerocommercial Code reform driven by President Javier Milei's administration through DNU 70/23.
"MORE FLIGHTS. The Aerocommercial Code reform of DNU 70/23 by President @JMilei was aimed at facilitating short flights, bringing small cities closer to connecting airports. The two new routes in Neuquén by @americanjet are an example of this. For San Martín de los..."
The Impact of DNU 70/23 on Air Transport
The DNU 70/23 (Decreto de Necesidad y Urgencia, an executive decree used by the Argentine president to legislate on urgent matters) is known as the national government's economic deregulation package. It introduced significant modifications to the Aerocommercial Code. Its main purpose is to facilitate the operation of short flights, allowing small and remote cities to have more direct access to major connecting airports. This measure aims to democratize air transport, reduce operational costs, and encourage competition among regional airlines.
In this framework, the airline American Jet, an Argentine carrier known for its regional and charter operations, announced the launch of two new routes within Neuquén province. Neuquén is a key region in northern Argentine Patagonia, famous for its natural resources and stunning landscapes. One of the mentioned connections heads to San Martín de los Andes, a picturesque tourist destination nestled in the Andes mountain range that will be favored by greater accessibility for both visitors and residents.
Benefits of Regional Air Connectivity
- Tourism Boost: Connecting towns like San Martín de los Andes makes it easier for tourists to arrive, energizing the local economy and showcasing Patagonia's beauty.
- Competition and Prices: The opening of routes and deregulation foster competition, which could translate into more accessible fares for travelers.
- Regional Development: Smaller cities no longer depend exclusively on long ground trips to integrate into the national air system.