South American pass with Aerolineas Argentinas.

Aerolineas Argentinas in conjunction with Austral Air have introduced the South American Pass in 2012. This Pass allows you to visit Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.This is good news for people travelling to South America because you could save a lot of money especially if you are planning to fly a lot.

Aerolineas Argentinas is the official airline of Argentina and they are known for delays and strikes. They have improved their service a lot over the last year and delays are not that common anymore. However, the one thing that didn`t change is the fact that they overcharge foreigners. If you don`t have a DNI (Argentinian local document) you can be charged double the price when booking a ticket online or at their offices. This is where the South American pass could be to your advantage.

There are certain conditions if you want to make use of this pass.

1. The price is based on your total mileage, and, to be eligible you must fly in and out of the continent on Aerolíneas and visit at least two countries.

2. If you have return tickets with Aerolineas Argentinas you get preferential rates for flights to other South American countries.

3. Minimum 3 coupons and maximum 12 coupons.Each flight corresponds to a flight coupon.

4. The pass only applies to seats in the economy class.

5. No need to start the trip in Buenos Aires.

** Please check the Aerolineas Argentinas official website for more details as I have only listed some of the important ones.

How to book the South American Pass?

1. If you start your trip in Argentina you must have an international return ticket arriving to South America with Aerolíneas Argentinas.

2. if you start your journey in any other country in South America, you must have a return ticket to South America from Aerolíneas Argentinas or any other carrier.

3. Bookings can be made on the official Aerolineas Argentinas website. (http://www.aerolineas.com.ar/en-EU/VuelosBaratos/SouthAmericanPass)

An update from travel forums:

People had trouble getting through to the toll-free number after they experienced problems with the online booking system. One person complained that the line went dead after 20 minutes and he couldn`t get through after many tries. Agents are also not helping and says that the only way to purchase is through the online system. He eventually found a sales office in Florida and for an extra $10 service charge managed to book his flights with the Argentina pass. The number is 1-305 261-0100.