LATAM Airlines in Negotiations to Purchase 30 Embraer E2 Aircraft

LATAM Airlines, South America's largest airline, is in advanced discussions with Brazilian manufacturer Embraer for the purchase of its first E2 family aircraft, according to statements by Silvio Costa Filho, Brazil's Minister of Ports and Airports. This potential order could involve up to 30 second-generation Embraer E-Jets.

At a press conference on August 13, 2024, Silvio Costa Filho revealed that LATAM is studying this option to meet its growth strategy, particularly in the face of Airbus and Boeing aircraft delivery delays. Discussions also involve Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, as well as LATAM CEO Roberto Alvo.

Jérôme Cadier, CEO of LATAM Brasil, confirmed in a recent interview that the company is seriously considering the acquisition of Embraer aircraft, although the Airbus A220 remains a competitor. He added that no decision had yet been finalized.

Minister Costa Filho stressed the importance of this negotiation for the development of the Brazilian aeronautical sector, while respecting free market principles. He also mentioned that LATAM expects to grow by more than 10% over the next three years.

LATAM Brasil currently has a fleet of 160 aircraft, with an average age of 8.9 years. The use of Embraer aircraft by Brazilian airlines is still limited, due to weak regional market development and the country's economic challenges. However, the Brazilian government is encouraging local airlines to consider Embraer aircraft, with financial support from the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), which recently approved the financing of ten Embraer E195-E2s for Azul Linhas Aéreas.