LATAM orders up to 74 Embraer jets; eyes regional growth and potential US expansion

Since emerging from bankruptcy, LATAM has introduced at least six new routes to the United States. Notable additions include service between Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and Miami International Airport (MIA), as well as Sao Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The airline operates a joint venture with Delta Air Lines that enables coordination on schedules and fares for flights between South America and the U.S.

The Embraer order follows another recent deal for the manufacturer with Avelo Airlines in the United States for up to 100 E195-E2 jets.

Initially, LATAM plans to use its new E195-E2 aircraft to expand within Brazil. This move is aimed at improving competitiveness against Azul Brazilian Airlines, which serves significantly more domestic destinations using a varied fleet. Previously shelved plans for a northeastern hub could also be reconsidered as a result of this order.

Although the E195-E2’s range is insufficient for direct Brazil-U.S. flights, increased regional connectivity within Brazil may support future long-haul expansion using other aircraft types. Before restructuring, LATAM operated U.S.-bound flights from several northern Brazilian cities including Recife, Belem, Manaus and Salvador.

Looking ahead, LATAM could utilize these jets from bases in Colombia and Peru—such as Bogota's El Dorado International Airport (BOG) and Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)—to reach destinations in Florida and other southeastern U.S. cities aligned with Delta’s network strengths. The possibility exists for routes such as BOG-Austin or services connecting secondary cities in northern South America to Atlanta.

LATAM noted it may later deploy E195-E2s at affiliates in Chile, Colombia and Peru.