Government ultimatum over essential services
On Wednesday, the Ministry of Human Capital formally demanded that the State Workers Association (ATE) ensure at least 75% of flight operations during the strike planned for Thursday, September 3, and Friday, September 4. The ministry cited the Labor Modernization Law, which sets the minimum coverage for essential services at no less than 75% of normal operations. The government argued the measure aims to protect an essential service for connectivity, safety, and the national air navigation system.[S1]
The strike, called after failed wage negotiations, involves workers from the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) and affects 27 airports across the country. Protests are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on both days. During these windows, only sanitary, humanitarian, organ transport, and official flights would be guaranteed, according to the union's initial announcement.[S1][S4]
Union rejects ultimatum and confirms strike
ATE's national secretary general, Rodolfo Aguiar, responded by demanding the government's resolution be annulled, arguing that the right to strike is protected by Article 14 bis of the National Constitution. He insisted the measures remain in place and accused the government of trying to obstruct the protest. Aguiar also claimed the government is the only party failing to comply, noting that officials only remember the essential nature of the service during strikes, not when it comes to ensuring fair wages and working conditions.[S1]
Aguiar had previously stated that any delays or cancellations would not be the workers' fault, as the union had communicated the strike well in advance to allow the government to address their demands. He warned that if dialogue channels were not opened, the conflict would deepen. The union's demands include payment of agreed wage increases for extra-parity items, opening of sectoral wage negotiations, and funding for operational and oversight tasks at airports.[S1][S3]
ANAC to monitor compliance and advises passengers
The ANAC stated it will monitor compliance with the minimum services established by current regulations, aiming to preserve the continuity of air operations and minimize the impact on scheduled flights. The agency acknowledged that delays or specific rescheduling could occur during the affected time windows. It recommended that passengers with flights on those days check the status of their flight with the airline in advance and stay alert to communications and possible updates.[S1][S3]
The strike stems from grievances over unpaid salary increases since January and deteriorating working conditions in critical areas such as ground control, aeronautical health, firefighting, and oversight. The government's ultimatum was based on Article 24 of Law 25.877, as modified by the labor reform, and other legal provisions. The union argues that the high operational floor is a tactic to hinder the constitutional right to protest.[S2][S3][S4]
