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        <title>Aviacionline - Latin America and Caribbean</title>
        <link>https://www.aviacionline.com</link>
        <description>Aviacionline es el sitio de aviación en español más leído del mundo. Presenta noticias de aerolíneas, aviones, aeropuertos, y demás.</description>
        <lastBuildDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2025 12:47:04 GMT</lastBuildDate>
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            <title><![CDATA[Flights to Argentina: Israel might offer $5.4 million incentive to airlines]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/flights-to-argentina--israel-might-offer--5-4-million-incentive-to-airlines_a6949ad987a89b44e00490254</link>
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            <pubDate>Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:39:04 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Surplus war funds will be redirected to subsidize the direct connection with Buenos Aires, challenging the operational complexities of ultra-long-haul travel.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The Israeli Ministry of Finance is set to present an official proposal this Monday to allocate 20 million shekels (approximately $5.4 million) to incentivize the operation of direct flights between Ben Gurion International Airport and Buenos Aires.

The initiative, outlined in a government decision draft, seeks to secure regular air connectivity between the two nations for the 2026-2028 period. The funds will be sourced from budget surpluses in state guarantees originally allocated to the aviation sector during the "Iron Swords" conflict.

The financial incentive aims to mitigate the commercial risk of an ultra-long-haul route—exceeding 12,000 kilometers—that currently lacks operators. As reported by Israel Hayom, the official document underscores the need to strengthen diplomatic ties following the alignment of Javier Milei's administration with Israel, in addition to serving the Jewish community in Argentina.

Operational viability and competition

The proposal posits that the route would function as a direct bridge, eliminating current mandatory stops in Europe, the United States, or Brazil, significantly reducing travel times. The Israeli government projects that Argentina could consolidate its position as a Hub for Israeli passenger traffic to the rest of South America.

The Ministry of Finance noted that "resources will be used for an incentive mechanism" directed at any airline capable of sustaining the technical and commercial operation of the link. To date, carriers such as El Al have operated ad-hoc repatriation or cargo flights but do not maintain regular passenger service to this destination due to operational complexity and fuel costs associated with the distance and airspace restrictions.

The closest precedent is the flights El Al operated between Tel Aviv and Sao Paulo/Guarulhos between 2009 and 2011.

During the debate sparked by this potential subsidy for Tel Aviv-Buenos Aires flights over the year, voices from the Israeli Ministry of Transport opposed the measure, stating that it would require El Al to allocate aircraft currently serving profitable routes to the United States. This would force a reduction in capacity on those routes and translate into an increase in airfares.

Its network in that country currently covers Boston (3 weekly flights), New York-Newark (11), Fort Lauderdale (1), New York-JFK (16), Los Angeles (6), and Miami (5).]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[ICAO SAM mission concludes strategic visit to Suriname]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/icao-sam-mission-concludes-strategic-visit-to-suriname_a69473b5a7a89b44e000c83dc</link>
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            <pubDate>Sun, 21 Dec 2025 00:15:20 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Regional Director Fabio Rabbani met with President Jennifer Simons to discuss governance and oversight capacity for Suriname’s civil aviation sector.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) concluded a technical mission to Suriname, engaging with national leadership to support the enhancement of aviation safety and the sector's institutional framework. The SAM (South American Regional Office) team held high-level meetings to define strategies for the sustainable growth of civil aviation in the country.

According to the ICAO South American Regional Office, Regional Director Fabio Rabbani met with the President of Suriname, Jennifer Simons, and the Minister of Transport, Communication, and Tourism, Raymond Harold Landveld. Discussions focused on advancing legislation, governance, and oversight capacity.


INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY AND SAFETY

The technical exchange addressed the strategic importance of aviation for connectivity and economic development. Key topics included the implementation of sustainable financing mechanisms to support aviation institutions and the need for continuous reinvestment in technical capacity.

Rabbani highlighted that these efforts are vital to ensure long-term safety and sustainability. The ICAO SAM office expressed its appreciation for the commitment shown by Surinamese authorities and remains dedicated to supporting the state's progress in resolving oversight deficiencies.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Beyond the IPO and SKY: Abra Group Reports Avianca Record Q3 Earnings and Expansion Plans]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/beyond-the-ipo-and-sky--abra-group-reports-avianca-record-q3-earnings-and-expansion-plans_a6939dd111d1c6929ea45e672</link>
            <guid>6939dd111d1c6929ea45e672</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:49:54 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Abra Group has filed for a U.S. IPO and agreed to fully acquire Sky Airline. Subsidiary Avianca reported historic earnings, a 56% traffic surge in Argentina, and confirmed the January 2026 launch of domestic Business Class across 47 routes.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Abra Group, the aviation holding company controlling Avianca and Gol, has confidentially filed for an initial public offering (IPO) in the United States and reached a preliminary agreement to acquire 100% ownership of Chilean low-cost carrier Sky Airline. Simultaneously, Avianca launched its "Más para todos" (More for Everyone) campaign, confirming that its premium Business Class service will expand to 47 domestic routes in Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala starting January 15, 2026.

Adrian Neuhauser, CEO of Abra Group, confirmed the group has filed a draft F-1 registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a process initiated over a month ago.

“This prepares us for what we ultimately want, which is to see ourselves facing customers, but also facing capital markets, as a single group,” Neuhauser stated. While the regulatory review is expected to take "the better part of a year," the filing signals Abra's intent to unify its capital structure to support a combined fleet of over 300 aircraft.


SKY AIRLINE: FILLING THE MAP TO "PLAY AS EQUALS"

Neuhauser provided new details on the group's aggressive expansion into the Southern Cone, specifically the integration of Sky Airline. He announced a "principle of agreement" to convert a convertible bond Abra currently holds into equity, a transaction that would grant the group full control of the Chilean carrier.

“We have reached a principle of agreement to convert the convertible bond we have today... exchanging it for Abra shares, effectively moving 100% of the ownership up to the group,” Neuhauser explained.

During the Q&A session, Neuhauser elaborated on the strategic necessity of this deal, pointing to the "white space" on Abra's map in Chile and Peru. He argued that acquiring Sky is vital not just for connectivity, but for competitive balance in the region. “It allows us to play as equals with competitors like LATAM,” Neuhauser said. He estimated the regulatory approval process in Chile and Peru would take approximately 12 months.


"MÁS PARA TODOS": A PRODUCT REVOLUTION

Frederico Pedreira, CEO of Avianca, unveiled the details of the "Más para todos" campaign, which operationalizes the group's $800 million investment in customer experience.

 * Business Class Expansion: Beyond the international routes, the "Business Class Américas" experience will launch on January 15, 2026. It will be available on 47 domestic routes within Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala. This expansion complements the service currently available on over 80 international routes, which will soon see an extension to 18 additional routes, completing coverage across the continent.
 * "Insignia" Ground Experience: To elevate hospitality standards, the airline inaugurated "Insignia by Avianca Check-in" at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá. This exclusive space is designed for LifeMiles Diamond and Concierge members. Additionally, the Diamond VIP Lounges for domestic flights have been renovated, with international lounge upgrades in Bogotá coming soon.
 * Connectivity and Entertainment: The airline is advancing the progressive installation of onboard Wi-Fi under the brand "Avianca on air," initially available on 10 aircraft. The entertainment system has also been bolstered, now offering over 300 movies, series, and documentaries from partners like HBO Max and Formula 1 TV.


AVIANCA’S HISTORIC FINANCIALS

Pedreira presented what he termed “the best third-quarter result in Avianca’s history.” The airline reported an EBITDAR of $411 million and a net income exceeding $100 million for the quarter—a 40% year-over-year improvement.

Pedreira highlighted that the group has successfully deleveraged, reaching a healthy ratio of 2.8x. Overall, during the first three quarters of the year, Avianca transported more than 27 million passengers on over 195.000 flights, demonstrating consistent operational efficiency.


THE "ARGENTINA BOOM" AND REGIONAL GROWTH

A major focus of the update was the explosive growth in the Southern Cone. Avianca reported specifically on its performance in Argentina, where it transported 490.027 passengers between January and September 2025. This represents a staggering 56.5% growth compared to the same period the previous year.

 * Flight Operations: The airline increased its operations in Argentina by 73.6%, totaling 2.948 takeoffs during the period.
 * Córdoba Route: The company highlighted the solid performance of the Bogotá-Córdoba route, launched in June 2025, which increased from three weekly frequencies to a daily flight as of December 7.
 * Total Presence: Avianca closed the third quarter with 6 routes in operation and more than 40 frequencies serving the Argentine market.


EL SALVADOR AND BRAZILIAN CONNECTIVITY

Responding to questions regarding regional hubs, Pedreira emphasized the dramatic turnaround of the San Salvador hub, attributing its 20% growth over pre-pandemic levels directly to improved security conditions in the country. “The security issue has boosted tourism,” Pedreira noted, explaining that the hub is no longer just a connection point but a destination for travelers from South America.

On the topic of Brazil, Neuhauser addressed the need for better distribution beyond major gateways. He confirmed that the group is leveraging its dual-brand strength to improve connectivity between Colombia and Brazil, specifically mentioning new routes such as Bogotá to Salvador de Bahía.


OPERATIONS, CARGO, AND FLEET FLEXIBILITY

Gabriel Oliva, President and COO of Avianca, reported that despite recent fleet supply chain constraints, the airline maintained an on-time performance (OTP) of nearly 83%.

He also detailed the complete transformation of Avianca Cargo into a uniform fleet of nine Airbus A330 freighters. “We transformed the entire cargo network,” Oliva stated, noting the division now serves 32 cargo-exclusive destinations via its freighter fleet and passenger belly capacity.

Looking ahead, Neuhauser pointed to a massive confirmed order book of 246 aircraft scheduled for delivery through the early 2030s. The group’s fleet currently consists of 140 Airbus A320 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, recently bolstered by the receipt of its first A320 Airspace aircraft.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Avianca confirms 2027 deadline for full-fleet Wi-Fi connectivity]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/avianca-confirms-2027-deadline-for-full-fleet-wi-fi-connectivity_a6939b3cb1d1c6929ea4291b1</link>
            <guid>6939b3cb1d1c6929ea4291b1</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:32:52 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[The airline detailed its plan: Airbus A320s ready by 2026 and Boeing 787s by 2027, offering messaging, browsing and streaming packages.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Avianca outlined the timeline for the complete rollout of onboard connectivity services across its aircraft. The carrier established a technical roadmap that will see its entire fleet connected to the internet within the next three years, according to the airline, which held an event in Bogotá.

The installation plan entails two main phases based on fuselage type. For the narrowbody fleet, comprised of the Airbus A320 family, implementation will span the coming months and is expected to conclude in 2026.

Conversely, the widebody fleet, consisting of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, is set to complete its technological upgrade by 2027.

SERVICE LEVELS

The commercial offering designed for passengers will feature three service tiers, tailored to different data consumption needs:

 * Messaging: Packages exclusively for text-messaging applications.
 * Browsing: Options for web surfing and email.
 * Streaming: Bandwidth capacity sufficient for real-time video and music playback.

THE TECHNICAL CHALLENGE: KU/KA BANDS AND ESA ANTENNAS

While Avianca did not disclose the specific provider or hardware, it stated the system would be "latest generation" and promised to be "one of the fastest in the region." To meet this premise in the current landscape, the technology must rely on high-capacity transmission standards.

The industry primarily operates on two spectrums:

 * Ku Band (12-18 GHz): The traditional standard with robust global coverage.
 * Ka Band (26-40 GHz): Allows for higher bandwidth and throughput, ideal for supporting multiple users streaming simultaneously in a dense cabin.

The key to the "latest generation" lies in the reception hardware. Traditional mechanical antennas are being replaced by ESA (Electronically Steered Array) antennas.

Unlike conventional ones that must physically move to track the satellite, ESAs are flat and steer the signal beam electronically. This offers two critical advantages for a fleet like Avianca's:

 1. Lower drag: Being low-profile, they generate less aerodynamic friction, optimizing fuel consumption.
 2. Seamless connection: They can switch satellites in milliseconds, eliminating interruptions.

THE STARLINK FACTOR AND LOW LATENCY

The concept of speed in the region shifted with the entry of providers like Starlink, which uses satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at 550 km altitude, as opposed to geostationary (GEO) systems orbiting at 35.000 km.

This difference reduces latency from 600 milliseconds to under 30 ms, enabling live video calls and online gaming. Regardless of whether Avianca opts for a LEO constellation (like Starlink) or a high-capacity GEO network (like Viasat or Intelsat), the upgrade aims to standardize the customer experience and respond to a demand where connectivity is no longer a luxury but an operational requirement.

Understanding Inflight Connectivity

To fully grasp the scope of Avianca's technological upgrade, it is essential to understand key concepts of the inflight connectivity (IFC) industry:

 * Latency: The response time; the time it takes for data to travel from the aircraft to the satellite, down to earth, and back. High latency (600 ms+) causes annoying lag. Low latency (under 50 ms, typical of LEO) enables smooth video calls.
 * Throughput: The total amount of data the system can process per second. Think of it as a pipe: the higher the throughput, the more passengers can stream simultaneously without clogging the network.
 * Drag: The aerodynamic resistance air exerts against the aircraft. Legacy antennas (bulky domes) created significant drag, increasing fuel burn. New flat-panel antennas minimize this effect.
 * ESA (Electronically Steered Array): Flat-antenna technology with no moving parts. Instead of physically rotating to track a satellite, it uses electronic impulses to steer the signal beam, allowing for instant satellite switching.
 * Ku and Ka bands: Parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Ku Band is the historical standard, robust and reliable. Ka Band operates at higher frequencies, generally allowing for faster download speeds for the end user.

 ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Abra Group Files Confidential Draft for U.S. IPO and Overhauls Board Structure]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/abra-group-files-confidential-draft-for-u-s--ipo-and-overhauls-board-structure_a69379de21d1c6929ea173e98</link>
            <guid>69379de21d1c6929ea173e98</guid>
            <pubDate>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:58:16 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[The holding company for Avianca, Gol and Wamos Air filed a draft registration statement with the SEC and adjusted its corporate governance to meet U.S. market independence standards.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Abra Group, the parent company overseeing the operations of Avianca, Gol, and Wamos Air, has officially signaled its intent to list on the United States stock market. In a dual strategic move, the firm confirmed the filing of financial documentation with US regulators and a deep restructuring of its Board of Directors to align its corporate governance with Wall Street requirements.

According to a statement from Abra Group, the company confidentially submitted a draft registration statement on Form F-1 to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in November. This administrative step is the formal prelude to a potential initial public offering (IPO) of its common shares in the US.

The holding company clarified that the offering itself and its timing remain subject to market conditions and the completion of the review process by the regulatory body.


BOARD RESTRUCTURING

Parallel to the financial move, and aimed at preparing its governance structure for public scrutiny, shareholders approved substantial changes to its leadership composition. Effective January 1, 2026, Abra’s Board will consist of nine members, specifically selected to achieve a majority of directors meeting the strict independence criteria of US stock exchanges.

Adrian Neuhauser, Abra’s CEO, noted that the group is entering a new chapter and that the new Board brings together diverse experiences and perspectives that will guide the strategy and reinforce its competitive position.


NEW NAMES AND CONTINUITY

The new board composition combines the continuity of key shareholders with the arrival of global aviation industry veterans and financial sector experts:

Continuing Members:

 * Constantino de Oliveira Junior (Chairman)
 * Roberto Kriete
 * Richard Schifter
 * Patricio Kiblisky
 * Jackson Schneider

New Independent Directors (Effective January 2026):

 * Robert Fornaro: former CEO of Spirit Airlines and AirTran, current board member of Southwest and WestJet.
 * Timothy Coleman: former partner at PJT Partners and Blackstone, with restructuring expertise.
 * Stephen Kavanagh: former CEO of Aer Lingus and director at Norwegian and Oman Air.
 * Howard Millar: former CFO and deputy CEO of Ryanair.

This infusion of external expertise seeks to provide transparency and accountability, essential elements for attracting institutional capital in a potential IPO. The group expressed its gratitude to the outgoing directors for their work during the company's foundational stage, which began in 2023.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[SJU on the Rise: JetBlue Activates Five Untapped Routes for 2026]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/united-states/sju-on-the-rise--jetblue-activates-five-untapped-routes-for-2026_a69304e681d1c6929ea3e6c11</link>
            <guid>69304e681d1c6929ea3e6c11</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 14:42:37 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[JetBlue begins ticket sales from San Juan to Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Norfolk, Richmond and Buffalo for March 2026. View schedules and frequencies.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[JetBlue opened sales channels this Wednesday for five new nonstop connections from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) to cities across the U.S. East Coast. Starting in March 2026, the airline will connect the Puerto Rican capital with Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Norfolk, Richmond, and Buffalo, consolidating its operation with an average of more than 40 daily departures from the island.

This operational expansion will bring the number of nonstop destinations served from San Juan to 22, reinforcing JetBlue's position as the largest air carrier in Puerto Rico by seat volume and frequency. The new itineraries are designed to capture both VFR (visiting friends and relatives) traffic and tourism flows from secondary markets in the United States.


OPERATIONAL SCHEDULE AND FREQUENCIES

The carrier has established a staggered launch schedule for late March 2026, with Philadelphia being the only route featuring daily frequency. The remaining operations will maintain a schedule of three to four weekly flights.

RouteFrequencyStart DateFlight (Dep)Flight (Arr)SJU - Philadelphia (PHL)DailyMarch 2607:0012:00SJU - Jacksonville (JAX)Mon, Wed, Fri, SatMarch 1312:3016:45SJU - Richmond (RIC)Tue, Thu, SatMarch 2609:0013:50SJU - Norfolk (ORF)Mon, Wed, Fri, SunMarch 2709:0013:50SJU - Buffalo (BUF)Mon, Wed, Fri, SatMarch 2718:2007:15 (+1)

Marty St. George, JetBlue's president, noted that the addition of these routes "deepens the commitment to the island started in 2002," focusing on creating travel opportunities within their expanding network.


MARKET POSITIONING AND INCENTIVES

The announcement aligns with the renewal of the Cooperative Marketing Agreement between the airline and the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (CTPR). This strategic alliance allocates funds for joint promotion in digital media and targeted campaigns in the new source markets, aiming to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the routes.

Jenniffer González-Colón, governor of Puerto Rico, highlighted that the expansion "strengthens the island's positioning as a leading destination in the Caribbean," while expanding connectivity alternatives for local economic development.

Currently, JetBlue maintains significant operational infrastructure on the island, including growing crew and maintenance bases, with additional operations at Aguadilla (BQN) and Ponce (PSE) airports. Willianette Robles Cancel, executive director of the CTPR, confirmed that the state investment seeks to "expand reach in high-potential markets" and strengthen the performance of existing connections to the East Coast and Florida.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Flybondi Announces $1.7 Billion Investment for Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 MAX 10 Fleet]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/flybondi-announces--1-7-billion-investment-for-airbus-a220-and-boeing-737-max-10-fleet_a692ef7d51d1c6929ea1c4f9c</link>
            <guid>692ef7d51d1c6929ea1c4f9c</guid>
            <pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:28:57 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Flybondi confirmed an order for 20 Airbus A220-300s and 15 Boeing 737-10s. Deliveries start in 2027 as the airline diversifies its fleet for efficiency.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Flybondi confirmed a structural shift in its business model on Tuesday by announcing an agreement with manufacturers Boeing and Airbus for the acquisition of new aircraft. According to the company, the operation involves an investment of approximately $1.7 billion and aims to consolidate its expansion in the domestic and regional market starting in 2027.

The fleet plan, which projects a 230% capacity increase over the next four years, is backed by COC Global Enterprise, a private investment fund focused on technology and aviation that stands as the airline's lead investor.


ORDER BREAKDOWN: A220 AND MAX 10

The order is split between the industry's two largest manufacturers, breaking the single-fleet homogeneity that has characterized the company since its inception in 2018.

 * Airbus A220-300: The company will incorporate 15 units of this model, with options for 5 additional ones. With a capacity for 160 passengers, these aircraft, manufactured in Alabama, USA, will begin arriving in 2027, with a delivery schedule extending through 2029. If the timeline holds, Flybondi would position itself as the first operator of this model in Latin America.
 * Boeing 737 MAX 10: The agreement includes 10 aircraft of the largest variant of the MAX family, with options for 5 additional ones. This aircraft, configured to transport 230 passengers, will begin deliveries in 2027 and complete its incorporation by 2030.

Mauricio Sana, CEO of Flybondi, noted that the decision seeks to integrate aircraft from both suppliers in a balanced manner. According to the executive, this step strengthens the company's future and boosts the regional industry, allowing the airline's model to be taken to other Latin American countries.


NEW FINANCIAL BACKING

The magnitude of the investment marks the definitive entry of COC Global Enterprise into the airline's strategy. Leonardo Scatturice, chairman and CEO of the fund, described the investment as "billion-dollar" and stated that the decision reaffirms the commitment to the region's growth.

Scatturice added that this expansion will strengthen operational capacity and drive the generation of thousands of jobs, boosting the economy through improved connectivity.

Having made its first scheduled flight in January 2018, Flybondi currently has a fleet of 15 aircraft: 14 Boeing 737-800NGs under dry-lease contracts and one Airbus A320 under ACMI (another nine aircraft will arrive in this manner during the summer). Its domestic network covers 16 destinations: Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Corrientes, Córdoba, Jujuy, Mendoza, Neuquén, Posadas, Iguazú, Salta, Santiago del Estero, San Juan, Tucumán, Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia and El Calafate, while internationally it flies to Rio de Janeiro, Maceió, Florianópolis, Asunción and Lima.

 With a domestic market share of 16% reported in October 2025, the company seeks to use these new assets to increase seat supply, expand its presence in key regional markets, and optimize fuel consumption.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[FIDAE 2026 enters final stretch with 65% of exhibition space sold]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/fidae-2026-enters-final-stretch-with-65--of-exhibition-space-sold_a692e03ec1d1c6929ea08e24c</link>
            <guid>692e03ec1d1c6929ea08e24c</guid>
            <pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2025 21:11:57 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Organizers of the region’s top aerospace fair report commercial progress as the countdown begins. FIDAE 2026 runs from April 7–12.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Just four months ahead of its opening, the organizers of the Feria Internacional del Aire y del Espacio (FIDAE) reported on the commercial progress of its twenty-fourth edition. The event, scheduled to take place from April 7 to 12, 2026, at the northern side of Arturo Merino Benítez Airport in Santiago, Chile, has booked 65% of its available exhibition area.

According to the organization, as of today, there are 108 confirmed exhibitors from 23 countries. These figures aim to ratify the show's position as the most relevant business platform for the sector in Latin America as it prepares to welcome the industry in the first half of next year.


COUNTDOWN TO THE 24TH EDITION

With a 46-year trajectory, the fair is finalizing details to maintain its status as the key meeting point in the region. The value proposition for April 2026 focuses on offering an environment optimized for B2B (Business to Business) relationships and professional networking in the weeks leading up to the event.

In addition to the static display and commercial pavilions, the agenda will include technical conferences on aerospace, defense, and security topics. This academic offer seeks to attract official delegations and decision-makers visiting Santiago in just over 120 days.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Immediate halt: Avianca temporarily exits Venezuela market under INAC order]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/immediate-halt--avianca-temporarily-exits-venezuela-market-under-inac-order_a6929f21f714f61d9c3389346</link>
            <guid>6929f21f714f61d9c3389346</guid>
            <pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2025 18:48:59 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Suspended flights between Bogotá and Caracas: Avianca complies with INAC order. Passenger protection details inside.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Avianca suspended sales and operations for flights to and from Venezuela on Friday, complying with a decision by the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC). The measure became effective on November 28, 2025, halting direct connectivity operated by the carrier between the two countries.

The airline stated that, facing this juncture, the priority remains the safety of passengers and employees. While Avianca trusts that the air connectivity situation will "evolve favorably," it reiterated its intention to resume operations "as soon as conditions allow".

Passenger protection and refund schemes

To mitigate the impact on customers with confirmed bookings, Avianca activated a contingency plan involving refunds and operational rerouting. Customers holding tickets on the Bogotá-Caracas-Bogotá route without connections will receive a proactive refund.

For passengers with connections on a single ticket regarding the aforementioned route, the airline will refund the segment to or from Venezuela, maintaining the option to request a full ticket refund if required.

Additionally, the carrier enabled an option to fly to or from Cúcuta under special conditions, utilizing the border airport as a connectivity alternative. Changes can be managed through the website, mobile app, contact center, and sales offices, while tickets purchased via travel agencies must be handled through that specific channel.

The Colombian airline is the first of the six whose operating permits were canceled by INAC to announce the complete suspension of flights. The Venezuelan regime made this decision after Avianca, Iberia, LATAM, GOL, Turkish Airlines, and TAP Air Portugal suspended their flights last week as a result of security alerts issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration and the Spanish Aviation Safety Agency, in the context of US military operations off its coast.

Avianca had already been forced to take similar action in 2017 when it left Venezuela in the context of an operational security crisis in that country and challenges in repatriating funds. It had only resumed flights in December 2023.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Safety vs. Politics: IATA pushes back on Venezuela's permit revocation]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/safety-vs--politics--iata-pushes-back-on-venezuela-s-permit-revocation_a6928a39c714f61d9c3184fa2</link>
            <guid>6928a39c714f61d9c3184fa2</guid>
            <pubDate>Thu, 27 Nov 2025 17:59:05 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[IATA urged Venezuela to reinstate permits for airlines that suspended flights due to US and Spain security alerts, prioritizing safety over politics.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The International Air Transport Association (IATA) formally requested the government of Venezuela to reconsider its decision to revoke operating permits for several international airlines (Avianca, GOL, LATAM, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia and Turkish Airlines). 

The government's move came in response to the temporary suspension of flights by carriers, who acted following aviation security alerts issued by the governments of the United States and Spain.

The global industry body intervened on Thursday to mediate a crisis that threatens to further isolate the South American nation. According to the association, the pause in schedules was driven strictly by technical criteria, as operators "prioritized the protection of passengers and their crews, avoiding operations in high-risk zones".

SECURITY PROTOCOLS AND GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

The dispute centers on the interpretation of the service suspension. While airlines acted under security directives from their home states or internal risk assessments, the Venezuelan administration chose to withdraw route authorizations.

IATA emphasized that this situation is "beyond the control of the airlines" and reaffirmed the carriers' readiness to restore service safely and efficiently "as soon as conditions allow". The entity urged local authorities to provide "timely clarification" regarding the recommendations and conditions that led to the temporary cessation of services.

VIABILITY OF FUTURE CONNECTIVITY

Beyond the immediate juncture, the conflict jeopardizes the structure of international air transport to Caracas and other points in the country. IATA and its members reiterated their willingness to establish joint working groups to find solutions that balance "aviation safety" with the need to "preserve Venezuela's connectivity with the rest of the world".

The organization, representing around 350 airlines and comprising 80% of global air traffic, seeks to prevent punitive measures from becoming permanent, which would complicate the return of operators once current security alerts are lifted.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Diplomatic Row: Lisbon Defends TAP's Decision to Halt Caracas Flights]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/diplomatic-row--lisbon-defends-tap-s-decision-to-halt-caracas-flights_a69286d4d43d3900708bc8415</link>
            <guid>69286d4d43d3900708bc8415</guid>
            <pubDate>Thu, 27 Nov 2025 15:22:10 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Minister Miguel Pinto Luz responded to Venezuela’s revocation of TAP’s concession, stating that Portugal does not yield to threats and prioritizes aviation safety.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The government of Portugal issued a harsh official response following Venezuela's decision to revoke TAP Portugal's concession and accuse the airline of participating in a "boicot." The Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Miguel Pinto Luz, set Lisbon's stance this Thursday, categorically rejecting the pressure exerted by Nicolás Maduro's administration.

"The Government of Portugal does not yield to threats, ultimatums, or pressures of any nature," the official declared via his social media channels, in clear reference to the measure published in Official Gazette No. 43.264 that left the Portuguese flag carrier out of the Venezuelan market.

Safety Over Politics

Pinto Luz's statement defends the technical decision to suspend flights, arguing that the absolute priority is the protection of citizens. "Our action is guided exclusively by the superior national interest and the uncompromising defense of the safety of the Portuguese, anywhere in the world," the minister emphasized.

Venezuela had justified the expulsion of TAP (along with Iberia, Avianca, LATAM, Turkish Airlines, and GOL) claiming that the suspension of operations based on FAA safety alerts constituted a hostile act. Portugal, however, ratified its alignment with global standards.

"In matters of civil aviation, as in all strategic areas, Portugal respects international rules, best safety practices, and coordination with competent aeronautical authorities," the official explained. "That is what guarantees the protection of passengers, crews, and our airlines."

Defense of Sovereignty

The minister's message concluded with a reaffirmation of Portuguese sovereignty in the face of Caracas' rhetoric. "Portugal is a free, sovereign, and responsible country," Pinto Luz stated. "We will always act with serenity, firmness, and a sense of State, protecting our citizens, defending our institutions, and affirming, without hesitation, the country's dignity."

With this diplomatic clash, the possibility of TAP returning to Maiquetía seems ruled out in the short term, consolidating Venezuela's aerial isolation from Europe.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Venezuela Revokes Permits for Major International Airlines]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/venezuela-revokes-permits-for-major-international-airlines_a6928369643d3900708b72ce2</link>
            <guid>6928369643d3900708b72ce2</guid>
            <pubDate>Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:25:52 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Major blow to connectivity: The Venezuelan government cancelled permits for six international airlines for obeying FAA safety warnings.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The conflict between the Venezuelan government and the international airline industry escalated to a total breaking point this Thursday.

Through Official Gazette No. 43264, dated November 26, 2025, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela made the revocation of the concession for air transport services to six major international airlines official.

The measure affects key operators from Europe and South America, and surprisingly includes Turkish Airlines, which until now maintained a strategic relationship with the Venezuelan government.


SANCTIONED AIRLINES

According to the official document, the companies losing their operating permits in the country are:

 * Iberia Líneas Aéreas de España S.A.
 * Transportes Aéreos Portugueses S.A. (TAP Portugal)
 * Aerovías del Continente Americano S.A. (Avianca)
 * Aerovías de Integración Regional S.A. (LATAM Airlines Colombia)
 * Turkish Airlines
 * GOL Linhas Aereas S.A.

Of the companies that suspended flights in recent days, Air Europa and Plus Ultra avoided the permit revocation.


ACCUSATIONS OF "STATE TERRORISM"

The legal justification presented in the Official Gazette raises the diplomatic and commercial tone of the conflict. The administrative text states that the revocation is a response to said airlines joining "actions of State terrorism promoted by the United States government."

The Venezuelan government argued that the suspension of flights by these companies was a political measure, not a technical one. According to the document, the airlines acted by "unilaterally suspending their commercial air operations to and from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, based on a Notam issued by an Aeronautical Authority without jurisdiction in the Maiquetía FIR."


RUPTURE OF CONNECTIVITY

This decision materializes the threat issued by the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC) earlier this week, when it gave a 48-hour deadline to resume operations.

The inclusion of Turkish Airlines is particularly striking, given that Istanbul functioned as one of the main global connection hubs for Venezuela outside of Western influence.

The reference to the "Aeronautical Authority without jurisdiction" directly alludes to the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), whose safety notices motivated the initial operational pause of the companies now expelled from the Venezuelan market.

With this measure, Venezuela is left virtually isolated from its main direct connections to Europe (Madrid, Lisbon), Bogota, Sao Paulo, and Istanbul, deepening the connectivity crisis that IATA warned about in its previous statements.

As far as major hubs are concerned, it only has connections to Bogotá (with Wingo, Avior, and Conviasa) and Panama City (Copa Airlines, Venezolana, and Estelar).]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[“South America Is Underserved”: an interview with Thierry Aucoc, Emirates Commercial Operations (West) SVP]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/middle-east/-south-america-is-underserved---an-interview-with-thierry-aucoc--emirates-commercial-operations--west--svp_a6926f08043d39007089eb6f8</link>
            <guid>6926f08043d39007089eb6f8</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:36:30 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Emirates Senior Vice President Thierry Aucoc identifies South America as a “huge” but “underserved” market, yet cautions that significant expansion hinges on overcoming global aircraft delivery delays and finding the right fleet balance to serve the region.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[During a business breakfast in Buenos Aires, I sat down with Thierry Aucoc, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations (West), to discuss the airline's footprint in South America, fleet constraints, and the evolving role of AI in a service-oriented industry.

 

Pablo Diaz: There have been discussions with the Argentinian government regarding a direct connection between Dubai and Buenos Aires. Given your current fleet constraints, is this feasible?

Thierry Aucoc: There is potential, but it is difficult to say "we will do this" or "we will do that" definitively because so many factors are not in our hands—specifically retrofits, new fleet deliveries, and new aircraft types. Argentina is quite far from Dubai; we are talking about a 17- or 18-hour flight. We need the right aircraft to operate that efficiently.

So, the message Tim Clark gave was "why not?", but he didn't say "we will do it". For the moment, the route with a stop in Rio is working very well. We are happy because the demand is unique: there is demand between Dubai and Rio, between Dubai and Buenos Aires, and, critically, between Buenos Aires and Rio. The seat factor is quite good, so the current model is a good one. When we increased frequencies from five to seven per week, we immediately saw an increase in bookings—it wasn't that we had to push hard; the demand came naturally.

 

Pablo Diaz: We are seeing similar growth in Colombia with the Bogota-Miami-Dubai connection.

Thierry Aucoc: It is a similar story. There is already a lot of traffic between Bogota and Miami, but what we want to promote is Bogota to Dubai and beyond. Colombia is far, so we utilize the possibility of using the aircraft that is already landing in Miami to extend the service to Bogota.

It works well. While there is high local demand between Bogota and Miami, our objective is, above all, to offer the Colombian population the possibility to reach Dubai and continue their journey through our network.

 

Pablo Diaz: Do you have plans to extend your footprint in the region beyond Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia?

Thierry Aucoc: We have plenty of ideas. In total—not just for Emirates, but the industry in general—we consider South America to be underserved because there is real potential, as it is a huge continent. We would like to be here to support that development.

We had plans to go to Santiago, but with COVID, we had to reconsider many projects. There are many capitals in South America that could be served, but the recurring issue is: aircraft, aircraft, aircraft. We need that capacity.

 

Pablo Diaz: Regarding fleet availability, when do you expect to be on par with delivery schedules?

Thierry Aucoc: The A350s are already arriving regularly, at a rate of about 1.5 to 2 aircraft per month, so that is moving faster. We expect to increase our capacity by roughly 4% or 5% per year.

However, you cannot just look at that figure in isolation. It depends heavily on which aircraft are being phased out versus which are arriving. For example, if you phase out an A380, that is 517 seats leaving the fleet. If you replace it with an entering A350, that is only 302 seats. So, it is not a one-to-one exchange. We will be able to grow significantly when deliveries accelerate and when the Boeing 777 deliveries start as well.



Pablo Diaz: It was surprising to see more 777X orders, as many speculated that Emirates might cancel its standing orders.

Thierry Aucoc: It’s not exactly that. Boeing is developing a bigger 777, and what we said is that we would like to have the possibility to switch between versions. But for us, Boeing is a major partner. We are by far one of the biggest users of the Triple Seven. We still believe in Boeing because we are doing additional orders, so we strongly believe in that partnership.

 

Pablo Diaz: The A380 came to solve the issue of airport congestion, but a combination of technology extending the capabilities of twin-engine aircraft and the global conjuncture made it difficult to penetrate the market. As you said, smaller, long-range aircraft are serving long-and-thin routes. Does this interest in larger variants represent a ratification of your Hub-and-Spoke model, and the resurgence of the airport congestion problem?

Thierry Aucoc: The intention of Airbus and Boeing is to definitely offer high-capacity aircraft, but yes, you may need smaller aircraft to serve secondary points. However, for us, 98% of our traffic feeds the hub in Dubai. We will use the classic 300-seat A350 for points where the potential matches that capacity. For us, a 302-seat A350 is a small aircraft. 

Our big advantage is that Dubai is not just a transit hub. One-third of our traffic stops in Dubai. If you see the split of our activity, it is one-third Dubai, two-thirds beyond. This helps support the hub in a smart manner. If you have a hub where no one stops, you aren't really capturing the full value.

 

Pablo Diaz: Regarding sustainability and SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), consensus on meeting 2030 and 2050 goals seems to be wavering.

Thierry Aucoc: We are not producing the fuel; that is in the hands of fuel companies and refineries. For us, the only thing that counts is that we want to be part of this ecological project as much as possible. We have done tests flying with biofuel, but the fuel has to be available in big proportions—today I think it is only about 2% of total fuel.

Regarding price, if it is expensive, we obviously have to put that on the final carriage, which is normal. But we know it is essential to participate. Last year, we put $200 million into research within Emirates on how to be greener. Even if aviation is a small percentage of the carbon footprint, we have to be responsible. We look at everything: diminishing taxi time, optimizing routes, or recuperating plastic to make blankets and amenity kits. It might seem like small pieces that won't change global warming overnight, but we need to contribute as much as we can.

 

Pablo Diaz: Finally, you emphasize the "human touch" in customer relations, yet the industry is perfecting AI for this purpose. How do you find a balance?

Thierry Aucoc: We consider AI and online tools at 100%. But does that mean we should sacrifice the human touch? Our position is no. We deliver services, so we need to be sure clients and travel agencies are happy because we fix their problems.

We know that behind the physical presence there are a lot of wires. We need AI; without it, we would lose time managing bookings, cancellations, and changes. But AI should not be a smokescreen between us and the client: at the end of the day, someone physically sits on board. I am not sure that if you go to a restaurant, you just want a picture of what you will eat. AI is a help, not a threat.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Government authorizes LATAM for regular Florianópolis - Buenos Aires flights]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/government-authorizes-latam-for-regular-florianopolis---buenos-aires-flights_a692522e244f9b700e80085e3</link>
            <guid>692522e244f9b700e80085e3</guid>
            <pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:31:28 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Under the new Open Skies framework with Brazil, the government formalized LATAM’s permits for the Florianópolis–Buenos Aires route.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The Argentine Undersecretariat of Air Transport formalized the authorization for TAM Linhas Aéreas S.A. (operating as LATAM Airlines Brasil) to operate regular international air transport services for passengers and cargo on the route connecting Florianópolis with Buenos Aires.

The measure was made official through Disposition 41/2025, published this Tuesday in the Official Gazette, and bears the signature of the Undersecretary of Air Transport, Hernán Adrián Gómez. According to the regulatory text, the company met all legal and administrative requirements demanded for the provision of these services.

The administrative approval falls within the Open Skies scheme promoted by the Argentine government. The recitals of the regulation explicitly cite the Memorandum of Understanding signed on March 6, 2024, between Argentina and Brazil, which eliminated the frequency caps and designation restrictions that previously governed the market.

This bilateral agreement allows airlines from both countries to freely determine capacity and the number of flights based on market conditions, increasing flexibility for regional connectivity.


SEASONAL OPERATION

Although the authorization does not specify the terminal airport in Buenos Aires (using the generic "Buenos Aires" designation), LATAM’s current programming for the 2025/2026 summer season concentrates its operations from Florianópolis mainly to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, complementing its network.

The disposition grants the airline the right to operate the route in both directions ("and vice versa") and in a combined manner (passengers and cargo), consolidating the offer for high tourist demand to southern Brazil.]]></content:encoded>
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        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[IATA Calls for Dialogue After Venezuela Issues 48-Hour Flight Ultimatum]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/iata-calls-for-dialogue-after-venezuela-issues-48-hour-flight-ultimatum_a6924da6644f9b700e8fa9c11</link>
            <guid>6924da6644f9b700e8fa9c11</guid>
            <pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:20:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Airspace conflict: IATA responds to Venezuela‘s demand to resume flights within 48 hours, prioritizing safety protocols under the Chicago Convention.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on Venezuelan authorities for greater clarity and cooperation following the ultimatum issued by the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC) to suspend traffic rights for airlines that do not resume operations within a mandatory 48-hour period.

Operational tensions arose after several carriers suspended flights to the South American country in response to safety warnings recently issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Spanish authorities.

The body representing the global industry urged authorities involved in the assessment of Venezuelan airspace safety to work in alignment to provide certainty to operators transiting the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (FIR).

Safety vs. Connectivity

The conflict escalated this Monday when INAC demanded the immediate return of operations under the threat of revoking permits. In response, IATA clarified that the flight pause is due to technical protocols and not arbitrary commercial decisions.

"IATA emphasizes that these suspensions are temporary measures," the association highlighted in its official statement, "adopted following rigorous risk analyses to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft, in accordance with international standards established in Annexes 6 and 17 of the Chicago Convention".

The association warned about the consequences of forcing operations without adequate guarantees. "This decision will further reduce connectivity to the country," the body noted, "which is already one of the least connected in the region".

Context of the Warnings

The airlines' decision aligns with safety notices (NOTAMs) issued by the FAA on November 21 and by Spanish aviation authorities on November 24. Both entities warned of potential risks to civil aviation and recommended avoiding overflight of Venezuelan airspace.

In this scenario, IATA reiterated its members' willingness to resume services once the environment is safe. "IATA member airlines," the statement concluded, "remain committed to restoring operations to and from Venezuela as soon as conditions allow".

The organization also offered to maintain open channels of communication with local authorities to coordinate actions that protect passenger rights and comply with current safety regulations.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Arajet's NY Push: Double Daily Flights to Dominate the Holiday Season]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/united-states/arajet-s-ny-push--double-daily-flights-to-dominate-the-holiday-season_a6924a09d9bea001b62b8ca1a</link>
            <guid>6924a09d9bea001b62b8ca1a</guid>
            <pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:11:14 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[With load factors exceeding 85% on its New York routes, Arajet is doubling its offer to Newark. The company projects closing 2025 with 1.5 million passengers.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Arajet increased its service between Santo Domingo and Newark (EWR) to two daily flights starting November 19, a strategic move aimed at capturing high demand during the winter season. According to information provided by the carrier, this operational expansion coincides with a solid performance in October, moving over 130,000 passengers including connections.

The Dominican airline adjusted its schedule to offer travelers greater flexibility. In addition to the standard morning flight, which departs Las Américas International Airport at 06:10 and lands in Newark at 09:30, a new evening frequency has been added. This second service takes off from Santo Domingo at 19:10 and arrives at the U.S. terminal at 22:30.

This decision responds to the need for connectivity between the Dominican Republic and the New York tri-state area, where the company maintains load factors exceeding 85%.


MARKET SHARE GROWTH

During October, Arajet once again ranked as the third-largest airline by passenger traffic in the Dominican Republic. According to statistics from the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), the company transported 115,536 point-to-point passengers. When adding connecting traffic, the total figure surpassed 130,000 travelers.

Official data indicates that the airline captured 8.8% of total international passengers passing through Dominican airports during the month. Within the segment of national airlines, its dominance is absolute, concentrating 90% of the movement. Routes to Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and Medellín stood out as the highest volume performers for the carrier's network.


2025 YEAR-END PROJECTIONS

The capacity increase to the United States is part of a broader strategy to capitalize on tourism flows and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) traffic. Between January and September 2025, the Dominican Republic received over 6.5 million visitors by air.

Year-to-date, the airline has surpassed the one-million passenger mark and projects closing 2025 with 1.5 million travelers mobilized.

"We are committed to offering a safe service, where the passenger receives the best value for their money," stated Victor Pacheco Méndez, CEO and founder of the airline.

"New York is a key market for Dominicans and for tourism," the executive added, "especially during this season when families yearn to reunite to celebrate the Christmas holidays."]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Colombia Reinforces Airspace Monitoring as Airlines Divert Around Venezuela]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/colombia-reinforces-airspace-monitoring-as-airlines-divert-around-venezuela_a69244cab9bea001b62b18562</link>
            <guid>69244cab9bea001b62b18562</guid>
            <pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:15:01 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Aerocivil reports 1,500 pax affected after FAA warns of military risks in Venezuela. Wingo and Satena keep flying as authorities meet to coordinate mitigation.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The Civil Aeronautics of Colombia (Aerocivil) confirmed the activation of enhanced monitoring measures and called for an urgent industry meeting this Monday, following a notification from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warning of operational risks in the Maiquetía airspace (Venezuela). The situation has led to flight cancellations and route diversions affecting approximately 1,500 passengers, primarily in Bogotá.


THE FAA WARNING: INTERFERENCE AND MILITARY ACTIVITY

The U.S. agency issued NOTAM KICZ A0012/25 on November 21, advising civil operators of a "worsening security situation and heightened military activity" within the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (FIR).

The alert highlights potential risks at all altitudes, including overflight, arrival, and departure phases, citing possible miscalculation or misidentification by air defense systems. Additionally, Álvaro Giovanni Mujica, Secretary of the Aeronautical Authority at Aerocivil, noted that the FAA specifically warned of "possible interference to navigation systems" (GNSS/GPS), a critical technical factor that prompted trajectory adjustments by multiple operators.


OPERATIONAL IMPACT: CANCELLATIONS AND DIVERSIONS

In response to the international notice, airlines made autonomous decisions to preserve operational safety. While U.S. carriers have been prohibited from flying to/from Venezuela since 2019, this new warning impacted European and South American airlines that use the airspace to cross the continent or connect with Caracas.

Carriers such as Iberia and LATAM Airlines cancelled scheduled flights to Venezuela or diverted routes to avoid the affected airspace. Turkish Airlines also suspended operations to Caracas for an initial four-day period.


MAINTAINED OPERATIONS: SATENA AND WINGO

Despite the adverse context, not all operators ceased flights. Mujica highlighted that "some companies, such as Satena and Wingo, have maintained their regular operation" between Colombia and Venezuela.Copa Airlines also continued its scheduled itineraries to Maiquetía.

Facing route diversions and uncertainty, the Colombian aeronautical authority strengthened its "surveillance, control, and communications" capabilities to ensure safe air traffic services in Colombian sovereign airspace, which is absorbing the diverted traffic.

The official emphasized state responsibility under the international framework: "According to the Chicago Convention, States must guarantee the protection of civil aviation and cannot compromise the safety of commercial aircraft," Mujica reminded.

Aerocivil scheduled a key meeting for this Monday with regional aviation authorities and the affected airlines. The meeting aims to coordinate mitigation measures, consolidate real impact figures, and define a roadmap to "advance in the normalization of operations as soon as possible".]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Major Airlines Halt Venezuela Flights Following FAA Security Warning]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/major-airlines-halt-venezuela-flights-following-faa-security-warning_a69223b879bea001b62694c55</link>
            <guid>69223b879bea001b62694c55</guid>
            <pubDate>Sat, 22 Nov 2025 22:44:56 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[International connectivity to Venezuela fractured this weekend after the FAA warned of airspace risks. LATAM, Iberia and Avianca suspended operations immediately, citing safety concerns over the Maiquetía FIR. Copa, Wingo and some European operators maintain their schedules for now.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[A cascade of flight suspensions to and from Venezuela has disrupted international connectivity this weekend after the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a security alert regarding the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (SVZM). While LATAM Airlines and Iberia led the initial wave of cancellations, other major carriers like Avianca, TAP Air Portugal, and GOL have also grounded operations, splitting the market between those suspending services and those maintaining their schedules under heightened vigilance.

The FAA issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on November 21, 2025, advising civil aviation operators to exercise extreme caution due to "heightened military activity" and "worsening security conditions" in Venezuelan airspace. The directive cites specific risks including GPS signal jamming and the potential for miscalculation at all altitudes, prompting an immediate reassessment of risk by safety departments across the industry.

Following the security directive, a significant portion of international capacity into Caracas (CCS) has been removed:

 * Iberia: The Spanish carrier canceled its flights starting Monday, November 24, until further notice. Its Saturday rotation (IB191) operated as scheduled, but subsequent frequencies have been pulled while the airline monitors the situation.
 * Avianca: The Colombian airline, a key player in the renewed connectivity between Bogotá and Caracas, suspended its flights immediately, grounding operations from Saturday.
 * TAP Air Portugal: Flights from Lisbon scheduled for Saturday and the upcoming Tuesday were canceled. The airline cited the lack of guaranteed safety conditions as the primary driver for the decision.
 * GOL & Caribbean Airlines: Both regional carriers have also paused their services, isolating Venezuela from key connections in Brazil and the Caribbean.

These suspensions join LATAM Airlines, which canceled its November 23 operation and activated a contingency plan allowing passengers to reroute to Cúcuta (CUC), Colombia, a border city that serves as a terrestrial gateway to Venezuela.


CARRIERS MAINTAINING OPERATIONS

Despite the warnings, several operators have decided to continue flying, maintaining a vital, albeit fragile, link for passengers:

 * Copa Airlines: The Panamanian carrier, which operates a high-frequency hub model connecting Venezuela to the Americas, continues its schedule.
 * Air Europa & Plus Ultra: Unlike their competitor Iberia, these Spanish airlines have maintained their programmed flights for the time being.
 * Turkish Airlines: The long-haul connector remains operational.
 * Wingo: The low-cost subsidiary of Copa Holdings operated its Saturday flights, keeping its schedule active.


OVERFLIGHT ADJUSTMENTS

The impact extends beyond flights landing in Caracas. Major U.S. carriers—American Airlines, Delta, and United—which are already prohibited from flying to Venezuela, have begun altering their flight paths for routes between North and South America to avoid the Maiquetía FIR entirely. These deviations are adding flight time and fuel consumption to north-south rotations but ensure compliance with the FAA's guidance to avoid the area of heightened military sensitivity.


CONTEXT: A VOLATILE AIRSPACE

The FAA's intervention highlights a sharp deterioration in the perceived safety of the region. The agency warned that the presence of advanced air defense systems and military assets poses an inadvertent risk to civil aviation, drawing parallel concerns to conflict zones elsewhere in the world.

For passengers, the situation has created a complex landscape of uncertainty. While some airlines offer waivers and rerouting options—such as LATAM's open endorsement of the Cúcuta alternative—others are processing refunds as travelers scramble to find seats on the few remaining carriers still serving Simón Bolívar International Airport.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Arajet Lands in Boston: The Dominican ULCC Challenges the New England Market]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/united-states/arajet-lands-in-boston--the-dominican-ulcc-challenges-the-new-england-market_a6920b96b9bea001b6212fe69</link>
            <guid>6920b96b9bea001b6212fe69</guid>
            <pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2025 19:06:27 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Arajet launched operations today between Santo Domingo and Boston. With four weekly flights, the airline targets the Dominican diaspora and strengthens its Las Américas hub.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Arajet officially touched down today at Logan International Airport (BOS), establishing a direct link with Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo. The launch of this route brings the number of destinations the carrier serves in the United States to six after New York, Orlando-Sanford, San Juan-PR, Miami and Chicago.

The operation will feature four weekly frequencies scheduled for Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This new connection aims to capture both VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) traffic from the large Dominican community in New England and tourist flows toward the Caribbean.

The choice of Boston responds to a clear demographic logic. According to company estimates, around 200,000 Dominicans reside in the Logan Airport catchment area.

"Boston is a vital market for Arajet as it is home to one of the largest Dominican communities in the United States. This new route gives passengers an easy and affordable way to fly while offering seamless connections to more than 25 destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America," said Víctor Pacheco, CEO and founder of Arajet.

The executive added that now that they have launched their sixth route in the United States, they have set their sights on new destinations to continue expanding next year.



The airline's arrival in Massachusetts takes place within a context of aerocommercial opening. Antonio Almonte, Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Boston, stated that they celebrate with enthusiasm Arajet's inaugural flight to Boston, a step that strengthens the ties between the Dominican Republic and the community throughout New England.

"We are grateful for President Abinader's leadership in promoting the Open Skies agreement with the United States, a historic step for Dominican aviation that makes this and other flights possible," concluded the diplomat.

Beyond point-to-point traffic, Arajet is betting on strengthening Santo Domingo's role as a continental hub. Passengers arriving from Boston will be able to connect to more than 25 destinations in the airline's network, including points in South and Central America such as Aruba, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Guatemala.]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Bolivia's new government faces aviation crisis amid dollar shortage and lack of competition]]></title>
            <link>https://www.aviacionline.com/english/commercial-aviation/latin-america-and-caribbean/bolivia-s-new-government-faces-aviation-crisis-amid-dollar-shortage-and-lack-of-competition_a691b402abbe318e65018f991</link>
            <guid>691b402abbe318e65018f991</guid>
            <pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:39:14 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Bolivia‘s new president, Rodrigo Paz Pereira, inherits an aviation sector in crisis, plagued by a dollar shortage and dominated by state-owned BoA.]]></description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Bolivia initiated a new political stage on November 8 with the inauguration of Rodrigo Paz Pereira as the new president, an event that ends two decades of administration by the Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS). 

The new government inherits a country with complex economic challenges, highlighting a deep crisis in the air transport sector, marked by a lack of competition and a severe shortage of foreign currency. The scenario is critical. The Bolivian economy is undergoing an acute crisis due to the lack of U.S. dollars, which directly impacts civil aviation. This shortage hinders fuel imports, aircraft lease payments (leasing), and the acquisition of essential spare parts for maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO).


CONNECTIVITY AND CURRENCY CRISIS

The airline sector, dominated almost entirely by the state-owned Boliviana de Aviación (BoA), faces serious difficulties. As early as the beginning of 2025, the outgoing administration of Luis Arce acknowledged that the airline was going through "critical moments," a situation that even led to announcing forums to try to attract foreign operators given the evident lack of competition. 



This de facto monopoly, combined with the economic crisis, resulted in a market with scarce international connectivity and limited options for passengers. 

Data obtained by Aviacionline through Cirium shows that during 2025, airlines have a scheduled capacity of 7,081,861 seats in Bolivia. Of that total, 2,062,305 correspond to the international segment. Boliviana de Aviación is responsible for 43.7% of the international seat capacity, followed by Avianca with 21% and LATAM Airlines with 14.5%. 



The domestic segment, with 5,019,556 seats offered in 2025, belongs almost entirely to the state-owned BoA, holding 91% of the capacity. Ecojet has the remaining 9%. 

TAMep, which depends on the Bolivian Air Force, also has a marginal presence outside the Cirium system. A sign of its status is that it has not flown for a month because its only aircraft, an Avro RJ70, is undergoing maintenance tasks.


A CHANGE OF COURSE: MARKET OPENING AND INVESTMENT

The new government of Rodrigo Paz Pereira, stemming from the Partido Demócrata Cristiano (PDC), outlines a drastic change from the previous statist model. During the electoral campaign, one of the strategic axes proposed by various sectors of the new government coalition was the "opening of airspace for tourism and economic development." 

The political consensus that brought Paz to the presidency favors deregulation, attracting private investment, and redefining the State's role in the economy. In the aviation sphere, this would translate into an open skies policy, designed to attract new international airlines and encourage the creation of private domestic operators. 

The new administration also stated its intention to "end the isolation" of the country and normalize relations with the United States, which could facilitate new bilateral agreements and interest from North American companies.



The immediate challenge for the new management will be twofold: stabilize the macroeconomy to resolve the currency crisis and, in parallel, implement the structural reforms that allow new players to enter the Bolivian air market.

In this regard, Peter Cerdá, IATA's Vice President for the Americas, told Aviacionline that they "look forward to working with the new Bolivian Government under the leadership of President Paz, especially as aviation can positively contribute to the socioeconomic development of the country and its people."

 "While we are aware of the challenges facing the new administration, and in particular for our industry, the lack of U.S. currency and decreasing domestic aviation fuel production to meet regular demand, we must highlight the critical role of aviation in providing connectivity for trade, tourism, and access to global markets," the executive continued.

 "Therefore, facilitating the successful growth of the sector will automatically create economic opportunities throughout the value chain," he concluded.


THE AIRPORT INHERITANCE

Days before the change of government, the management of Bolivia's Ministry of Public Works, Services, and Housing detailed a series of investments in airport infrastructure that were being executed across the country, as well as projects under study, urging the incoming administration to continue them. 

These include reforms and expansions at airports in Tarija, Villazón, La Paz/El Alto, Santa Cruz de la Sierra/Viru Viru, and Riberalta.]]></content:encoded>
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