Argentina Redefines Airport Management: ANAC Modernizes Regulations to Gain Efficiency and Align with International Standards

Argentina’s commercial aviation sector has just taken a significant regulatory step. With the approval of Resolutions No. 54/2026 and No. 55/2026, the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) has introduced structural changes to the airport regulatory framework. These changes aim to improve operational efficiency, clarify responsibilities, and enhance operational safety, directly following recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The core of the reform rests on two pillars: the new edition of RAAC Part 153 and the incorporation of RAAC Part 77. These regulations redefine the relationship between the regulator and aerodrome operators and will have a direct impact on the daily operations of airports, airlines, and service providers.

A Shift in Approach: ANAC as a Control and Oversight Authority

The regulatory update consolidates a model where ANAC strengthens its role as the aeronautical authority, focusing its functions on control, supervision, and oversight, while transferring certain operational functions to aerodrome operators.

This approach is not coincidental. It stems from international audits conducted by ICAO, which recommended streamlining responsibilities, reducing duplication, and accelerating the flow of critical information for flight operations.

RAAC Part 153: Increased Responsibilities for Aerodrome Operators

Transfer of Key Operational Functions

The new edition of RAAC Part 153 introduces a revised operational scheme that transfers functions previously held by ANAC’s Aerodromes and Airports Departments to aerodrome operators. Among the most significant are:

• Direction and operational safety on the apron

• Issuance of vehicle credentials

• Granting of driving permits in the movement area

• Provision of Follow-Me service

• Control of vehicles in operational areas

This change means airport operators take on a more active role in the daily management of risk and operational safety, directly impacting the efficiency of ground operations.

Direct Communication with AIS: Fewer Intermediaries, Fewer Delays

One of the most critical points for flight operations is the timeliness and accuracy of information. The regulation stipulates that aerodrome operators must notify the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) directly about aerodrome conditions, without the prior intervention of the aerodrome chief.

In practice, this optimizes communication times for critical information, such as runway surface status, and eliminates unnecessary delays in transmitting operational data relevant to flight crews and dispatchers.

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Emergency Plans: A Differentiated Approach Based on Operational Risk

The reform also introduces adjustments to Aerodrome Emergency Plans (AEP), with a proportionality criterion based on the level of complexity and risk:

• Public controlled aerodromes: Must have an Aerodrome Emergency Plan approved by ANAC.

• Public non-controlled aerodromes and private aerodromes: Must have an Emergency Response Plan, supported by coordination with local resources, without requiring prior approval from the authority.

This scheme recognizes the operational differences between various types of aerodromes and avoids unnecessary regulatory burdens on lower-risk facilities.

Local Committees: Operational Management in the Hands of the Operator

Another relevant change is the redefinition of the role of local committees, including:

• Operational Safety Committee

• Wildlife Hazard Committee

• Facilitation Committee

Under the new regulations, these committees will be coordinated by aerodrome operators, while the aerodrome chief remains focused on control and oversight tasks. The goal is to streamline decision-making and strengthen local risk management.

Deadlines and Transition: A Demanding Schedule

Implementation of the new scheme will not be immediate. Operators must submit a schedule for the transfer of operational services to ANAC within 30 calendar days from the publication of the regulations.

This schedule must provide for effective implementation within a maximum period of 180 days, all under the supervision and oversight of the authority. The transition will therefore be a key period to assess each airport operator’s adaptability.

RAAC Part 77: Clear Rules for Works and Structures in the Airport Environment

A Specific Framework for Non-Aeronautical Third Parties

RAAC Part 77 introduces a specific regulatory body for works, installations, and activities carried out by third parties in the airport environment. This includes:

• Construction of buildings

• Installation of antennas

• Development of wind turbines

• Other structures or obstacles that may affect flight operations

The central objective is to guarantee operational safety and the regularity of operations, establishing clear requirements for this type of intervention.

Regulatory Unification and Regional Alignment

The new Part 77 unifies and organizes pre-existing regulations into a single regulatory body, consolidating the requirements applicable to actors who are not directly part of the civil aviation system.

Furthermore, the regulation is harmonized with LAR 77 (Latin American Aeronautical Regulations), aligning Argentina with current regional standards and facilitating a homogeneous interpretation for operators and investors.

Overall, the modifications introduced by ANAC consolidate a more efficient and orderly airport management model, where the regulator focuses on controlling and overseeing, and operators assume greater operational responsibilities.

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