Travelers Grounded Across Brazil, Chile, and Colombia as LATAM, GOL Linhas, LEVEL, and Avianca Face 49 Cancellations and Multiple Delays, Impacting Major Airports in São Paulo, Santiago, and Bogotá

Published on
November 17, 2025

Travelers are facing significant disruptions across Brazil, Chile, and Colombia as major airlines, including LATAM, GOL Linhas, LEVEL, and Avianca, grapple with widespread flight cancellations and delays. A total of 49 cancellations have already been reported, leaving many passengers stranded. The disruptions are primarily impacting major airports in key cities such as São Paulo, Santiago, and Bogotá. As these airlines struggle to manage the fallout, travelers are experiencing long wait times, uncertainty, and inconvenience. The cancellations and delays are a result of operational issues, affecting both domestic and international flights. Passengers are urged to check with their airlines for updates, as the situation continues to evolve. With thousands of affected passengers, the travel chaos in São Paulo, Santiago, and Bogotá is causing major frustration, highlighting the vulnerabilities in airline operations during peak travel times.

Affected Cities and Airports

The affected cities and airports are São Paulo with São Paulo-Congonhas Airport in Brazil, Santiago with Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport in Chile, and Bogotá with El Dorado International Airport in Colombia. These major airports serve as key hubs for both domestic and international flights in their respective countries, connecting travelers across the region and beyond.

Flight Cancellations

Affected Airlines

The airlines include LATAM Brasil, GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, LATAM, LEVEL, and Avianca. These carriers are prominent players in the South American aviation industry, with LATAM and Avianca operating across various international routes, while GOL Linhas Aéreas and LATAM Brasil focus on both domestic and regional flights. LEVEL is a low-cost carrier that operates primarily in international markets, providing travelers with affordable options for transatlantic flights.

Overview of Flight cancellations

The flight cancellations across the airports in the table show varying levels of disruption. At São Paulo-Congonhas in Brazil, LATAM Brasil had 2 cancellations (0%), and GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes had 1 cancellation (0%), indicating minimal impact on their schedules. In Santiago, Chile, LATAM faced a significant disruption with 25 cancellations, accounting for 12% of its flights. Meanwhile, LEVEL had 1 cancellation, which represents 100% of their flights at the airport, showing a complete disruption. At El Dorado International in Bogotá, Avianca had 19 cancellations, representing 3% of its schedule, while LATAM had 1 cancellation, which made up 33% of their flights, indicating a larger relative impact. These figures reflect how flight cancellations can vary greatly depending on the airline’s operational scale at each airport, with some airlines experiencing significant disruptions in terms of both absolute numbers and percentages.

What to Do if Your Flight Gets Cancelled: A Quick Guide

Flight cancellations can be frustrating, but knowing the right steps to take can help minimize stress. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:

Stay Updated
Monitor your email, phone, and the airline’s app for rebooking confirmation or further announcements.

Stay Calm and Check for Updates
As soon as you learn your flight is canceled, stay calm and check for updates. Many airlines will notify you via text, email, or their app. Visit the airline’s website for real-time updates on the situation.

Contact the Airline
Reach out to the airline’s customer service either in person at the airport or over the phone. If you’re at the airport, head to the service desk. If you’re not, try calling or using the airline’s online chat system to avoid waiting in long queues.

Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cancellations. Many airlines offer rebooking options or compensation, especially if the cancellation is within their control. In the EU, for example, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain conditions.

Consider Alternative Flights
Ask the airline about the next available flight. If you can’t find a suitable option, consider booking a new flight through another airline, or check for other forms of transport like trains or buses.

The flight cancellations across São Paulo, Santiago, and Bogotá highlight significant disruptions in air travel, with varying impacts on airlines. While LATAM Brasil and GOL Linhas experienced minimal cancellations at São Paulo-Congonhas, LATAM faced a notable 12% cancellation rate in Santiago. LEVEL saw a complete disruption with 100% of its flights cancelled there. In Bogotá, Avianca and LATAM also faced cancellations, with LATAM’s 33% cancellation rate reflecting a substantial impact relative to its schedule. These disruptions underscore the challenges airlines face in maintaining consistent operations during unforeseen circumstances.

Source: FlightAware and affected airports