airBaltic and a new Latin American startup airline and SUA Líneas Aéreas based in Uruguay have entered into a partnership, which will help SUA launch services.
airBaltic Airbus A220-300 – Image, Economy Class and Beyond
As part of the agreement, airBaltic plans to wet lease up to five of its Airbus A220-300 aircraft to SUA starting October 2025 as part of a wet lease.
In addition, airBaltic will support SUA in such areas as operational set-up, pilot training, know-how sharing, IT and automation, and the airline’s sustainability initiatives as it heads towards passenger launch.
SUA plans to launch operations by the fourth quarter of 2025, connecting key cities across Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. The initial routes will aim to reduce travel times and provide direct alternatives for regional passengers who currently face limited or inconvenient options.
In Quotes
Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic:
“Collaborating with SUA Líneas Aéreas represents a unique opportunity to bring airBaltic’s expertise in operating the Airbus A220-300 to a new region. This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering innovation and improving air connectivity globally. We are looking forward to supporting SUA in their journey to strengthen regional connectivity and deliver exceptional service in Latin America.”
Antonio Rama, CEO of SUA Líneas Aéreas:
“Through this alliance, we will benefit from airBaltic’s expertise in key areas such as fleet management, operational efficiency, and staff training, equipping us with the tools needed to develop a customer-focused operation. We are confident that their experience and support will be critical in this early phase of our development.”
Bringing knowledge and aircraft
airBaltic is bringing a lot to this launch, with the operational knowledge of the Airbus A220-300 – as well as how to fly them, but everything that enables them to fly.
Remember, the aircraft is but one part of a big aviation jigsaw – and having operational knowledge to assist in the start-up phase will aid SUA to take flight a lot easier, rather than figuring out each step at a time.
It also gives SUA operational experience of operating modern aircraft at the cost of leasing them as they work on their own fleet strategy, and they build up operational experience to satisfy regulators.
These are important steps for any airline – especially one just starting out. Having someone hold your hand during these steps could make life a lot easier for the in the longer term.
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