On October 15, 2025, Aerolíneas Argentinas faced a critical issue when flight AR1526, a Boeing 737-800, suffered a significant engine failure shortly after takeoff from Buenos Aires Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Airport.
The aircraft, bound for Córdoba, safely diverted to Ezeiza International Airport, but debris from the failed CFM56-7B engine scattered across the runway.
This incident, coupled with a pattern of similar engine troubles, prompted the airline to ground eight Boeing 737-800s.
This move has sparked pilot backlash, triggered a safety review, and disrupted the carrier’s operations.
The Aircraft Grounding Decision
The decision to ground the aircraft came after multiple in-service failures of the CFM56-7B engines, which power these 737-800s.
The October 15 incident was not isolated. Recent reports indicate recurring issues with these engines, failing well before their recommended 17,200 flight cycle inspection interval.
Aerolíneas Argentinas, prioritizing safety, took the decision to ground 29% of its 737-800 fleet pending an assessment. The airline is now working with CFM International, the engine manufacturer, and Argentina’s Junta de Seguridad en el Transporte (JST) to investigate.
This proactive measure exceeds standard guidelines, reflecting the carrier’s commitment to passenger safety.
Pilot Concerns and Safety Review
Argentine pilots’ unions have voiced strong objections, criticizing the airline for continuing operations despite known engine issues. They argue these failures expose deeper maintenance and supply chain risks.
The unions’ outcry has fueled a broader safety review, focusing on engine reliability across the fleet. While Aerolíneas insists its actions align with strict internal safety protocols, the scrutiny highlights global concerns about aging CFM56-7B engines.
Similar issues have occurred elsewhere, like Southwest Airlines’ incidents in 2016 and 2018. The review aims to ensure no further risks to passengers or crew.
Impact on Operations
The grounding has significantly reduced Aerolíneas Argentinas’ narrowbody capacity. The airline operates 28 Boeing 737-800s, alongside five 737-700s, thirteen 737-8 MAXs, and twenty-four Embraer E190s.
Losing eight aircraft has forced schedule adjustments, with multiple flight cancellations, particularly on domestic routes like Buenos Aires to Córdoba.
Passengers face delays of several hours as the airline reroutes them to other aircraft or partner carriers. International flights remain largely unaffected, but the domestic network is strained, especially during peak travel periods.
Travelers are advised to check the Aerolíneas Argentinas app or website for real-time updates.
Looking Ahead
The grounded 737-800s are now undergoing inspections at maintenance facilities. Aerolíneas awaits technical assessments from CFM International to determine the cause of the failures.
No timeline for returning the aircraft to service has been confirmed, though the airline hopes for a resolution within weeks.
Meanwhile, the JST’s investigation, with indirect involvement from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board, continues.
This incident underscores broader challenges in aviation, including supply chain constraints for engine parts.
