Quantcast

Sky Industry News

New Uruguayan airline partners with airBaltic for Airbus A220 operations
Policy
Webp airbaltic
airBaltic | Provided Photo

Uruguay is set to welcome a new national airline, Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación (SUA), which will soon announce its entry into the Latin American aviation market. SUA plans to operate Airbus A220-300 aircraft through a wet lease agreement with European carrier airBaltic, marking it as the first airline in Latin America and the Caribbean to use these Canadian-built narrowbody jets.

The official announcement is scheduled for January 28, 2025, at Montevideo's Carrasco International Airport. The initiative aims to revitalize Uruguay's aviation sector by introducing a modern fleet and an innovative business model. Initially, SUA will operate six Airbus A220-300 aircraft, gradually expanding to ten over three years.

airBaltic's operational experience with the A220 makes it a strategic partner for SUA. This collaboration allows SUA to concentrate on developing its route network while leveraging airBaltic's expertise in maintenance and safety.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Despite challenges faced by airBaltic due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues affecting their fleet globally, they continue expanding their A220 operations. Currently operating 49 of these aircraft, with more on order, airBaltic remains committed to supporting SUA's growth.

The launch of SUA aligns with Uruguay's National Airport System efforts, including terminal renovations across several cities. With backing from the Uruguayan government and Saudi investors, the airline aims to enhance national connectivity and economic diversification. The venture is expected to create numerous jobs within the country's aviation sector.

SUA also plans broader contributions beyond passenger transport by establishing technical support facilities and pilot training centers in Uruguay. These include Latin America's first Airbus A220 maintenance center and plans for a full-flight simulator installation within five years.

Antonio Rama leads this ambitious project as CEO and Founder of SUA. Previously involved with U-Air until its closure in 2005 due to financial difficulties stemming from limited route access and low passenger numbers, Rama brings his experience as both an entrepreneur and Boeing 777 captain at Qatar Airways into his new role at SUA.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

**Article: Lufthansa rejects EU Commission's order to feed Condor traffic at Frankfurt Airport** Lufthansa Group has reiterated its stance against an obligation to provide feeding flights at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) for routes to New York,...

Mar 1, 2025

Two of Germany's largest airports, Cologne/Bonn and Düsseldorf, are experiencing significant operational disruptions due to a strike by airport workers.

Mar 1, 2025

In the past week, several airlines have launched or resumed routes, adding new options for travelers.

Mar 1, 2025

Trade organization Airlines for America (A4A) has urged Congress to increase funding for air traffic control (ATC) staffing due to ongoing controller shortages.

Mar 1, 2025

Air travel in first class offers numerous benefits, from comfortable seating to enhanced services.

Mar 1, 2025

During the upcoming summer season, which spans from March 30 to October 25 according to IATA slot seasons, a total of 50 airports in the US and Canada-- including Saint Pierre in the French overseas collectivity of Saint Pierre and Miquelon--will...

Mar 1, 2025