LATAM Brazil Considers Adding Embraer, Airbus Smaller Jets
SAO PAULO – LATAM Airlines is contemplating the addition of smaller aircraft, such as Embraer's E2 and Airbus' A220, to its fleet, according to the company's Brazil head, Jerome Cadier. "We have mapped out what growth could look like with a smaller (capacity) fleet," Cadier told journalists. "And this smaller fleet could come from Embraer, it could come from Airbus, and we're constantly looking for alternatives to increase growth."
Embraer's next-generation E2 jets and the Airbus A220 directly compete in the regional segment for up-to-150-seat aircraft. These jets are designed to serve regional routes efficiently, providing airlines with the flexibility to operate in smaller markets. Cadier noted that the airline has been seeking options to expand its fleet since last year. This is particularly crucial as Airbus and Boeing are facing challenges in delivering new aircraft, coupled with some planes being grounded for mandatory motor inspections.
In a recent development, the head of Brazil's state development bank, BNDES, revealed that both LATAM and Gol are in advanced talks to incorporate Embraer aircraft into their fleets. However, LATAM's Chief Financial Officer, Ramiro Alfonsin, mentioned in a separate call with journalists that "nothing concrete" had been decided yet.
This move reflects LATAM's strategy to navigate the current aviation industry's complexities and ensure sustainable growth. Smaller aircraft like the E2 and A220 could offer the airline cost-effective and efficient solutions to meet passenger demand in regional markets.
