Argentina Improves General Aviation Flying Freedom

 Argentina’s National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) has amended civil aviation regulations to eliminate the requirement for all general aviation flights to file a flight plan, removed a ban on nighttime VFR flying, and simplified rules for Part 135 charter operators.

According to ANAC, “The measure applies to Parts 91, 121, and 135 of the RAAC (Argentine Civil Aviation Regulations) and is the result of a comprehensive technical analysis that considers technological advancements, the operational experience of the various sectors of civil aviation, and the recommendations of international organizations. In all cases, the changes are implemented while guaranteeing operational safety, which remains a guiding principle of the aeronautical authority.

“Furthermore, the requirements for air ambulance operations are being simplified, and the minimum equipment criteria are being updated, allowing a greater number of aircraft to operate under instrument flight rules, always within established safety margins.”

ANAC is also eliminating the first-class commercial pilot license’s 900-hour requirement for pilots flying for scheduled and non-scheduled airlines. The new rules will allow Part 135 operators to request approval for single-pilot operations in aircraft equipped with a three-axis autopilot and carrying fewer than 10 passengers.

Provisions to eliminate the flight plan filing requirement and allow night VFR come into effect on March 1.

Also in effect on March 1 is the elimination of the requirement for a flight plan in ADIZ airspace for aircraft equipped with ADS-B Out. "This technology allows for real-time identification and tracking, simplifying operational and administrative procedures while fully maintaining airspace surveillance and control," according to ANAC.