Aerolíneas Argentinas grounds eight Boeing 737-800 jets after repeated engine failures

The grounded aircraft include those registered as LV-FQY, LV-FQZ, LV-FSK, LV-FUA, LV-FUB, LV-FUC, LV-FVM, and LV-FVO. According to Aerolíneas Argentinas, CFM International recommends inspections after 17,200 flight cycles for these engines; however, none of the affected units had reached this number. The airline has requested further assessment from both the manufacturer and other regional operators who use similar engines and have faced comparable problems.

A spokesperson for CFM International told Simple Flying: "Safety is our top priority. We are supporting Aerolíneas Argentinas, as well as the NSTB in the investigation opened by the JST.”

The Boeing 737 series is central to Aerolíneas Argentinas’ domestic and regional operations across South America and the Caribbean. The carrier operates a total of 48 Boeing 737s: 28 of them are 737-800s—the variant now under scrutiny—alongside other models such as MAX 8s and -700s. All are powered by CFM engines.

CFM provides support through a team of local and international specialists who assist with diagnostics and operational recommendations for Aerolíneas Argentinas’ fleet.

Recent developments within Aerolíneas Argentinas include efforts toward privatization under President Javier Milei’s administration since 2023. In a notable change for 2025, the airline announced it would not depend on government funding for its operations—the first time since its renationalization in 2008. Over the past sixteen years, state subsidies totaled about $8 billion according to reporting by Buenos Aires Herald.

Earlier in 2025, Aerolíneas Argentinas reduced its workforce by approximately 13%, eliminating around 1,600 positions including senior management roles. Executives stated that these steps—combined with cutting unprofitable routes and restructuring management—were intended to improve financial discipline and stabilize company finances.