National carrier suspends nearly 10% of its fleet following repeated CFM engine incidents
Aerolíneas Argentinas has temporarily grounded eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft after a plane en route from Aeroparque to Córdoba suffered a left engine failure and made an emergency landing at Ezeiza International Airport on Wednesday.
The affected aircraft—registrations LV-FQY, LV-FQZ, LV-FSK, LV-FUA, LV-FUB, LV-FUC, LV-FVM, and LV-FVO—represent nearly 10% of the airline’s total fleet and share the same CFM International engine model and parts batch linked to four recent incidents.
In a statement, the airline said that all engines complied with manufacturer inspection standards, but acknowledged a pattern of failures involving the same engine type. CFM International, a GE–Snecma joint venture, has been asked for a technical review before the engines return to service.
“This preventive suspension reflects our uncompromising commitment to operational safety,” Aerolíneas Argentinas said, citing its adherence to IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) standards.
The Airline Pilots Association (APLA) criticised management, alleging an “alarming lack of oversight” and warning that pilots would refuse to operate affected aircraft until a mitigation plan is in place. The Technicians’ Association (APTA) attributed the issue to potential global blade defects, noting that engines might need earlier-than-scheduled replacements.
Despite the groundings, Aerolíneas expects limited disruption due to the current low travel season, though some flight adjustments are anticipated.
The most recent incident involved the 737-800 LV-FSK, which suffered an engine explosion during takeoff from Aeroparque, forcing a diversion to Ezeiza. The airline confirmed that the aircraft had been properly maintained and that the crew followed all safety procedures, landing safely without injuries.
This marks the fourth engine-related incident within a year for Aerolíneas Argentinas’ 737-800 fleet, prompting intensified scrutiny from both internal unions and aviation authorities.