Azul Linhas Aéreas to Launch New International Route, Expanding European Network
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Azul Linhas Aéreas is set to announce a new international route, marking a significant expansion of its global network. The Brazilian airline currently operates international flights to two destinations in Florida, USA, two in Europe, and several cities across South America.
Adjustments in Flight Operations
Recently, Azul reduced flights to Fort Lauderdale from Belo Horizonte (Confins) and Recife as part of a strategic shift. This adjustment appears to be aimed at reallocating aircraft to its Portugal-bound flights, particularly the Lisbon – Campinas route, currently operated by a EuroAtlantic Airways Boeing 777, and the upcoming Recife – Porto route.
However, with confirmation that the Recife – Porto route will not use Azul’s Airbus A330 fleet but rather a leased EuroAtlantic Boeing 767 with Portuguese crew, speculation within Azul about a new European destination has gained traction.
Madrid to Become Azul’s Next European Destination
According to AEROIN, Azul has hinted to employees that it is preparing to launch a new route to Madrid from Campinas (Viracopos Airport). This follows the successful launch of Azul’s Paris route, which managed to thrive despite the lack of a local partner for passenger distribution—unlike its Lisbon and Porto operations, where Azul has a strong partnership with TAP Air Portugal.
Fierce Competition on the São Paulo – Madrid Route
The São Paulo – Madrid route, departing from Guarulhos Airport (GRU), is one of the most competitive long-haul markets connecting Brazil and Europe. Currently, up to five daily flights serve this route, operated by:
- Iberia (2 flights per day)
- LATAM (1 flight per day)
- Air Europa (1 flight per day)
- Air China (3 flights per week on the Beijing – Madrid – São Paulo route)
Azul’s decision to enter this market appears to have influenced LATAM’s recent move to increase its flights to Madrid starting in June, bringing its schedule to two daily flights, matching Iberia’s frequency.
Azul’s Competitive Edge: The Viracopos Hub
Azul’s key advantage in this market will be connectivity through its Campinas (Viracopos) hub. This hub provides seamless connections for passengers from smaller and mid-sized Brazilian cities, many of which lack direct flights to Guarulhos Airport (GRU), where competitors operate their Madrid services.
However, Azul will have to compete against strong rivals, including:
- Iberia and LATAM’s partnership, which enhances connectivity between South America and Spain.
- Air Europa’s well-established distribution network in Madrid.
- Air China’s competitive pricing on the São Paulo – Madrid route.
Expected Launch Timeline
Although no official start date has been announced, Azul is expected to launch its Campinas – Madrid flights around June, strategically aligning with the peak summer travel season in Europe.
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