LATAM Airlines Group S.A. has unveiled plans to significantly strengthen its domestic and regional operations in South America through a new agreement with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer. The airline group and its affiliates announced the acquisition of up to 74 Embraer E195-E2 narrowbody aircraft, comprising 24 firm orders and 50 purchase options. Deliveries of the confirmed units are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026, with LATAM Airlines Brazil set to receive the first aircraft, while other affiliates across the region may follow.
The move highlights LATAM’s strategy of reinforcing its connectivity across South America, enabling the airline to expand its network and offer more destinations and travel options to passengers. The firm order is valued at approximately US$2.1 billion at list prices, reflecting a major investment in the company’s future growth. Despite the significant order, LATAM stated that the fleet expansion aligns with its financial policy, which includes strict leverage and liquidity metrics, ensuring no deviation from its established fiscal strategy.
Over the past four years, LATAM has steadily increased its reach across South America, growing its network from 129 to 160 passenger destinations — a 24% increase since 2021. The addition of the E195-E2 aircraft is expected to enhance this growth trajectory by improving flexibility at LATAM’s major hubs and opening new opportunities for underserved markets.
The Embraer E195-E2 is widely recognized for its fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and advanced technology. Featuring a 2-2 seating layout, the aircraft eliminates middle seats while providing a quieter cabin experience. Equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, fly-by-wire systems, and cutting-edge aerodynamics, the E195-E2 reduces fuel consumption per seat by up to 30 percent compared to older-generation aircraft, offering both environmental and economic advantages.
For LATAM, the addition of these aircraft supports not only passenger growth but also broader economic development in the region by connecting more communities. The aircraft’s size and efficiency make it ideal for short- and medium-haul routes, allowing the airline to deploy the right capacity while maintaining profitability.
The group’s fleet currently consists of 362 aircraft, including 283 Airbus narrow-bodies, 56 Boeing wide-bodies, 20 Boeing freighters, and three Airbus wide-bodies under short-term lease. The introduction of the E195-E2s will complement this diverse lineup, giving LATAM greater operational flexibility as it continues to position itself as the leading airline in South America.
With this strategic fleet expansion, LATAM Airlines reinforces its commitment to building a more connected region, boosting tourism and trade, and offering passengers an improved travel experience across one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets.