The air transport crisis in Brazil: 2006 and 2007

Abstract

This case discusses the crisis experienced by the Brazilian air transportation sector in the years 2006 and 2007. Triggered by a major accident, the crisis had as protagonists the air traffic controllers who, on suspicion of functional failure and difficult communication with the sector officials, reacted through a standard operation strategy (called greve branca, wich means strike without retaliation). From November 2006 until mid-2007, this situation, along with the shortage of staff, resulted on the operational lack of control of the main airports in the country, with great harm to users. A new air accident, during the crisis, further aggravated the situation in the sector, exposing structural weaknesses and professionals to the Brazilian public opinion in an area considered safe until then.

The case reports the attempts to address the crisis by the authorities responsible for the air transport policy, against the discontent and demands of air traffic controllers and the indignation of society.

The purpose of the case is to illustrate a crisis and negotiation process situation, and was originally used in a workshop on negotiations in the public sector. The case can be used as support material for courses that address, among others, the following topics: negotiation, crisis management, communication, and strategic planning.