LATAM has purchased ten 787 aircraft from manufacturer Boeing, with options for five more.
Already the largest operator of the aircraft type in South America, this latest investment for up to 15 787-9 aircraft is set modernise the airline’s fleet further.
"The Boeing 787 is a much more efficient aircraft, allowing us to continue growing sustainably while reducing our carbon footprint as we drive the growth of our operations. This order will enable us to receive at least two aircraft of this model each year from 2025 until the end of the decade," said Ramiro Alfonsín, chief financial officer of the LATAM Airlines Group.
LATAM currently operates a fleet of 37 787-8s and 787-9s and, including this latest order, expects to grow the fleet to 52 787 aircraft by 2030.
Mike Wilson, Boeing vice president of commercial sales for Latin America and the Caribbean. Commented on the aircraft order, he said: “We appreciate LATAM's continued confidence in the 787 Dreamliner family to further expand its international network from hubs in Santiago, Sao Paulo and Lima.”
He continued: "As demand for air travel rises, we will continue to support LATAM's growth strategy and goal of connecting Latin America with the world."
Boeing’s 2024 commercial market outlook forecasts air travel in Latin America will more than double over the next 20 years, growing 5% annually. With nearly 2,300 airplane deliveries expected, the region's fleet is projected to grow to more than 3,000 airplanes by 2043.
The addition of these new aircraft to the LATAM fleet will help bolster capacity on popular routes and launch new routes including its nonstop flight to Sydney, Australia.