Azul’s intentions have been clear recently with the announcement and commencement (due to begin on the 2nd December 2014) of its long haul services from Brazil to the USA – adding Airbus A330s into its fleet, with the future long haul fleet to include Airbus A350s.
However, there is the matter of domestic services. These are currently made of Embraer E-190s, E-195s and ATR 42/72’s. These aircraft whilst great for the shorter services do not have great capacity.
Therefore Azul Brazilian Airlines will be adding Airbus A320neo aircraft to its fleet.
Azul Airbus A320neo – Rendering, Airbus
Azul will be purchasing 35 Airbus A320neos and leasing an additional 28 – a total of 63 aircraft to join the fleet. The aircraft ordered will be powered with CFM engines.
The aircraft will be used on Brazilian domestic long haul services and high density routes – such as Campinas to Salvador and Campinas to Recife. It also opens up additional markets for Azul if they choose to get the regulatory clearances to other countries.
It’s an interesting step of Azul, who are taking many steps forward moving from a pure domestic carrier operating regional aircraft to an international airline.
Azul is also adding extra Embraer aircraft, as it has orders for E2-195 aircraft too.
Certainly, Azul are becoming more of interest as time goes on.
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