Saturday, February 15, 2025
LATAM Airlines Group has reported a significant expansion in its fleet, achieving a 12% growth over the past two years. The airline has incorporated 30 new factory-direct aircraft since January 2023, reinforcing its strategic commitment to capacity expansion, sustainability, and improved passenger services. The latest additions include aircraft from the Airbus NEO family and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, recognized for their fuel efficiency, reducing consumption by approximately 20-25% according to manufacturer data.
As part of its long-term strategy, LATAM has committed to acquiring more than 120 aircraft through 2030. This extensive fleet expansion includes direct purchase agreements with Airbus and Boeing and additional aircraft leasing contracts. The group recently strengthened its position as the largest Boeing 787-9 operator in Latin America by securing the remaining production slots until 2030, ensuring continued expansion and renewal of its long-haul fleet.
Despite industry-wide aircraft and component shortages, LATAM Airlines Group has successfully navigated challenges to expand its fleet. According to Sebastián Acuto, Fleet and Projects Director, the airline’s proactive planning has ensured steady growth, enabling greater connectivity across Latin America while advancing the company’s net-zero emissions commitment. The airline’s approach integrates both sustainability measures and capacity growth, optimizing fleet efficiency through modern aircraft acquisitions.
Parallel to fleet expansion, LATAM has made significant upgrades to its cabin interiors, in-flight entertainment, and connectivity services. The airline has completed the renewal of 100% of its narrow-body fleet and has upgraded 57% of its wide-body aircraft. These improvements include new seating configurations, enhanced entertainment systems, and modernized cabin designs, elevating the onboard experience for both domestic and international passengers.
A key highlight of LATAM’s service enhancements is the implementation of complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi for LATAM Pass customers. This service now covers 100% of the narrow-body fleet in Brazil and has reached 75% penetration across subsidiaries in Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. By expanding connectivity offerings, LATAM aims to enhance the passenger experience on regional and domestic routes, reinforcing its market leadership in Latin America.
In addition to passenger operations, LATAM has expanded its cargo fleet, reaching a total of 21 freighter aircraft. This development stems from a fleet conversion strategy initiated in 2021, allowing passenger aircraft to be repurposed as dedicated freighters. As a result, LATAM has achieved a 70% increase in cargo capacity compared to 2019, reinforcing its role as a key logistics player in the region. The expanded cargo fleet supports growing e-commerce demand, perishable goods transport, and intercontinental trade.
As of 2024, LATAM Airlines Group operates a diverse fleet of 347 aircraft, comprising:
This strategic fleet expansion has enabled a 15.1% increase in consolidated capacity, measured in Available Seat Kilometers (ASK), compared to 2023. The growth aligns with LATAM’s market guidance and underscores its ability to scale operations efficiently despite global aviation challenges.
LATAM Airlines Group remains committed to sustainable aviation practices, leveraging the efficiency of next-generation aircraft to reduce carbon emissions while expanding operational reach. The company’s long-term fleet strategy focuses on enhanced fuel efficiency, optimized route networks, and continued digital transformation to support a resilient and competitive airline business.
With over 120 aircraft orders secured through 2030, LATAM is positioned for sustained growth, reinforcing its leading role in Latin American aviation while maintaining a strong emphasis on passenger experience, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
As the airline industry continues evolving, LATAM’s fleet renewal and service enhancements demonstrate a forward-looking approach to aviation growth, ensuring connectivity and improved travel experiences across the Americas and beyond.
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