Paraguay's DINAC Warns of Further Action as Paranair Works to Restore Operations

Paraguay’s civil aviation authority (DINAC) says Paranair has faced operational challenges for several years due to an insufficient number of aircraft, with the situation worsening recently following engine replacement work that led to widespread flight cancellations and schedule disruptions.

DINAC Airports Director Rubén Aguilar said the airline has struggled to sustain its route network because of limited fleet availability and explained that recent turbine replacement work further disrupted operations, resulting in the cancellation of many flights. He emphasized that the regulator’s priority remains ensuring aircraft meet all airworthiness and safety requirements before returning to service.

The regulator said Paranair is gradually resuming flights and working to recover its commitments to passengers while DINAC continues to monitor the airline’s compliance with technical and financial certification requirements.

Separately, DINAC President Nelson Mendoza said the authority has already taken administrative measures following complaints from Paraguay’s travel agencies, tourism authorities and consumer protection agency regarding repeated cancellations, schedule changes and delayed passenger refunds.

Mendoza said Paranair is currently operating with a single aircraft and has been instructed to submit a flight schedule aligned with its available operational capacity. He added that the airline is seeking to return a second aircraft to service, subject to its financial condition.

DINAC also warned it could undertake a financial and technical audit if the airline fails to stabilize its operations. In addition, the authority confirmed it filed legal action on July 17 to recover unpaid administrative fees. Paranair has since made a partial payment and entered into a repayment agreement, which DINAC said the airline is currently honoring.

Despite the operational and financial challenges, Mendoza stressed that the regulator has found no evidence that flight safety has been compromised and said oversight of the airline will continue as it works to restore normal operations.