ANAC Suspends Voepass Operations Over Safety Violations

The Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) has suspended all operations of Voepass Airlines, citing critical safety violations. The decision, announced on Tuesday, March 11, is a precautionary measure that will remain in effect until the airline resolves all regulatory non-compliances related to its management systems.

What Led to the Suspension?

ANAC's decision follows an extended period of heightened scrutiny of Voepass, which operates under Passaredo Transportes Aéreos and MAP Linhas Aéreas. The agency launched an extensive oversight operation after a plane crash in Vinhedo, São Paulo, in August 2024. Inspectors were deployed to Voepass' operational and maintenance bases to assess compliance with aviation safety standards.

In October 2024, ANAC mandated a series of corrective actions, including:

• A reduction in flight schedules

• Increased ground time for aircraft maintenance

• Changes in administrative leadership

• Implementation of an action plan to rectify safety issues

However, after a new round of inspections in February 2025, ANAC discovered a systematic failure to comply with these measures. The agency noted a decline in the effectiveness of Voepass' safety management system, along with recurring issues that had previously been flagged and supposedly resolved. This raised serious concerns about the airline’s internal processes and its ability to proactively identify and mitigate operational risks.

Immediate Impact on Passengers

As Voepass flights are grounded indefinitely, passengers affected by cancellations are advised to contact the airline or their travel agency for rebooking or refunds. The airline currently operates a fleet of six aircraft across 15 destinations for commercial flights and charter contracts.

ANAC's Official Statement

In an official statement, ANAC emphasized that the decision was driven by Voepass’ inability to meet essential safety requirements. The agency highlighted the breach of trust in the airline’s internal processes, as its safety systems failed to respond adequately to regulatory oversight.

“The suspension will remain in effect until Voepass demonstrates full compliance with the required safety standards,” ANAC stated.

What’s Next for Voepass?

The airline now faces a critical challenge: addressing the deficiencies outlined by ANAC and regaining the regulator’s confidence. Industry experts suggest that Voepass must undertake significant structural changes, including a possible overhaul of its management and safety protocols, to resume operations.

With increasing competition in Brazil’s aviation sector, the suspension could have long-term financial and reputational consequences for Voepass. Meanwhile, passengers and industry stakeholders await further developments as ANAC continues to monitor the situation closely.