Commenting on its recent codeshare cancellation with LATAM, Azul has stated that it believes that consolidation is “an important part of the post-pandemic industry response” and that the airline is “in a strong position to drive that consolidation”. Azul confirms that it has hired advisors and is “actively exploring industry consolidation opportunities in the region”.
“The codeshare with LATAM was a unique solution in our pandemic response. We also realized that industry consolidation would be important for the post-pandemic recovery and Azul would be a key part of any such activity. At the end of the first quarter of 2021 we hired financial advisors and are actively exploring consolidation opportunities. We believe the cancelation of the codeshare by LATAM is a reaction to that process,” says John Rodgerson, CEO of Azul. “Azul is emerging from this crisis in a leadership position in terms of liquidity, network recovery and competitive advantages. Our plans are unchanged and I am confident that we are in the best position to pursue strategic alternatives at this point in time.”
Azul stated that it will keep the market updated of any developments.