Cordoba: Consumer Defense initiated an ex officio action against Flybondi and warned of a 60% increase in complaints

In Córdoba, Argentina, the provincial Directorate General of Consumer Defense and Fair Trade has initiated an official action against Flybondi, a low-cost airline, over numerous consumer complaints. The measure was taken under Law No. 10,247 and National Law No. 24,240, which govern consumer protection. The directive orders Flybondi to provide a comprehensive solution to user claims, including explaining reasons for flight cancellations, responding to all pending administrative complaints, and immediately refunding consumers whose flights were canceled. The decision comes after a 60 percent increase in complaints filed with the consumer protection agency during July compared to the same month last year. Currently, around 60 cases involving Flybondi are being processed, many of which have stalled due to the company’s lack of response. In addition to this formal action, the Directorate General has requested information from the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) regarding Flybondi’s operational status and service conditions. Director General Ariel Juri explained that the decision followed the large number of complaints received and the uncertainty faced by passengers. He emphasized that Flybondi has not attended the conciliation meetings called by the organization nor provided responses in recent days, making it difficult to resolve the conflicts raised by users. Juri added that the agency will escalate unresolved cases to the legal department, where Flybondi could face penalties under Article 47 of Law No. 24,240, which outlines sanctions for violations related to information disclosure, respectful treatment, and failure to deliver services. The measures include potential fines and other corrective actions aimed at ensuring compliance with consumer rights. As part of its response, the Directorate General has advised citizens not to purchase new tickets from Flybondi until there is an official confirmation of the normalization of operations. It has also urged individuals who have booked flights, whether upcoming or scheduled for later dates, to file their complaints immediately rather than waiting until departure. This approach aims to protect their rights and facilitate timely resolution, whether through service rebooking or financial restitution. For further assistance, the public can visit the office located at Av. Colón N° 724 in the city of Córdoba or access the online portal at defensadelconsumidor.cba.gov.ar. These channels offer both in-person and remote support for those affected by the airline's issues. The situation highlights ongoing challenges within the aviation sector, particularly concerning transparency and customer service. As the case progresses, continued monitoring of Flybondi’s compliance with regulatory requirements will be essential. The outcome of this formal action may set a precedent for how such disputes are handled in future instances, reinforcing the importance of consumer advocacy mechanisms in safeguarding public interests.