First ANAC certification issued to an international ground handler in Argentina, writes Sophie Storey
Global airport services and logistics company Menzies Aviation is the first international business to secure a ground handling operator certificate in Argentina.
The certification was granted by Argentina’s National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) in December 2025 and provides a vital step for Menzies to support many of its airline partners in the region.
Menzies Aviation Senior Vice-President Latin America, Tomeu Mas said: “This milestone sets a strong foundation for our future growth in a market that has significant potential.”
Menzies’ new ANAC certification confirms that it meets all regulatory and technical requirements to operate under Argentine aviation law. The company can now deliver its ground handling services to Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) in Buenos Aires.
“We see ANAC’s decision as a positive step for the Argentine ground handling market,” said a representative from Argentinean handling company Agile Aero Service. “The entry of experienced international operators like Menzies raises industry standards and encourages healthy competition, ultimately benefitting airlines and airport operations across the country.”
Menzies is developing plans to build a substantial and highly trained workforce, supply modern equipment, and follow internationally recognised best practices, to ensure it delivers effective services across Argentina’s two key airports.
Ezeiza in Buenos Aires is Argentina’s largest international airport, while Aeroparque is the country’s busiest domestic hub.
“We are now focused on taking the next step towards entering Argentina and working with the aviation community to deliver safe, secure and high-quality ground handling services to airlines,” said Mas.
The certification reinforces Menzies’ Latin American presence, where it now operates in nine countries, supporting 61 airports and employing over 10,000 people across the region.
Subject to final regulatory approval ahead of Menzies’s operational launch in Argentina, the accredtation will strengthen the ground handler’s eligibility for upcoming airport tenders created by the country opening its ground handling market to international companies, Menzies said.
In autumn 2024, ANAC deregulated ground handling services through a new resolution, scrapping a 2018 rule which restricted airlines to provide ramp and ground services only for those within the same corporate group. The new regulations liberalise the ground handling market, making it easier for new providers to enter and creating more contractual freedom.
As part of these plans, budget carrier Flybondi became the first Argentine airline to receive ANAC authorisation to provide handling services to other airlines within the country.
“This is a huge step towards the growth of the commercial aviation industry in Argentina, offering a new option to other national and international airlines while consolidating the strength of our operations,” said Flybondi Chief Executive Mauricio Sana of the carrier’s ANAC approval.
