Paro de DGAC en Chile

The General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) of Chile faces a possible indefinite strike following a labor dispute with the Government.

Employees are demanding the inclusion of a recognition bonus of up to $350,000 in the 2025 Budget Law, but they claim that the Ministry of Finance has disregarded a prior agreement reached with the Ministry of Defense.

According to union sources, workers are awaiting a governmental response while supporting and maintaining a «slowdown» of their activities as a pressure measure. If an agreement is not reached, the indefinite strike could begin in the coming hours.

Industry concerns and potential consequences

The threat of a total strike has raised alarms in the country’s aviation and tourism industries. According to recent data, a mobilization that took place days ago led to the cancellation of flights for more than 22,000 passengers, and an indefinite strike could leave Chile without air connectivity for an undetermined period.

The president of the National Chamber of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (CNC), José Pakomio, warned of a «devastating» impact on air safety, the economy, and Chile’s international image.

«The impact of a strike in Civil Aviation would be critical. We urge the authorities to act urgently to prevent this scenario,» he stated.

Meanwhile, the Federation of Tourism Companies (Fedetur) emphasized that the strike «will practically isolate the country» and will cause a «profound and negative» economic and social impact.

The Airline Association (Achila) strongly criticized the strike, calling it «illegal» and highlighting that it affects the right to free movement and the operation of critical infrastructure.

A call to action

Given the severity of the situation, business organizations have urged the Government to take immediate measures to ensure the continuity of airport services. Meanwhile, the DGAC workers remain firm, demanding compliance with previously reached agreements.

The resolution of this conflict will be key to avoiding a major crisis in Chile’s air connectivity and its repercussions on the national economy. Destinations like Rapa Nui depend 100% on air transport for both passenger travel and vital cargo, as maritime transport takes 7 to 10 days from the Port of Valparaíso.