LATAM Airlines has recently received its first Airbus A321neo aircraft, leased from AerCap, and ordered 13 additional A321neo planes. This move is part of the company’s effort to expand its routes and support its regional growth. LATAM has 111 A320 Family aircraft that are yet to be delivered.
The newly acquired A321neo for LATAM has a seating capacity of up to 224 passengers and comes with Airbus’ Airspace XL bins in the cabin. These bins are larger and provide a 40% increase in storage space, accommodating 60% more carry-on bags. This enhancement offers a more convenient boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew. Notably, the aircraft flew to its destination with 49% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), contributing to a more sustainable approach to air travel.
Aligned with LATAM Airlines Group Sustainability Strategy
“Our fleet renewal and modernization strategy is fully aligned with our sustainability commitment and brings us closer to the goal of becoming a carbon-neutral group by 2050,” said Ramiro Alfonsín, Chief Financial Officer of LATAM Airlines Group. “We will continue to work on enhancing the current fleet with next-generation aircraft to further improve our connectivity while caring for the environment.”
“We thank LATAM for their continued confidence in our aircraft, reselecting the A321neo for its continued network growth. This strategic move also accelerates LATAM’s decarbonization trajectory as the A321neos are at least 20% more fuel-efficient, emitting 20% less CO2 and 50% less noise compared to previous generation aircraft,” said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.
About the Airbus A321neo
The A321neo is the largest aircraft in the A320 Family, a popular single-aisle aircraft series developed by Airbus. It covers various market needs while maintaining the lowest cost per seat-mile among all available single-aisle aircraft. So far, customers worldwide have placed more than 5,200 orders for the A321neo.
About the LATAM Airlines Group
LATAM Airlines Group and its affiliates are the leading airlines in Latin America, serving domestic markets in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru and operating international flights to Europe, Oceania, the United States, and the Caribbean. With a fleet of 240 Airbus aircraft, LATAM is the largest Airbus operator in Latin America. In July of this year, LATAM received its first delivery of a new Airbus A320neo, using a blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for 30% of the flight.
Airbus Footprint in Latin America
Airbus has sold over 1,150 aircraft in Latin America and the Caribbean, with 750 currently operating throughout the region. In addition, over 520 Airbus aircraft are on order, representing a 58% market share of in-service passenger aircraft. Since 1994, Airbus has dominated the market in the region, securing 75% of net orders.
Airbus Sustainability
In 2016, Airbus became the first aircraft manufacturer to offer sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for delivery flights. Today, all aircraft and helicopters leaving Airbus delivery centers use a blend of SAF as fuel. This move is part of Airbus’ commitment to reduce emissions and contribute to global sustainability goals.