LATAM Launches Refurbished Boeing 787-8s with Premium Business Suites and Enhanced Economy Cabins
LATAM Airlines has begun operating its first Boeing 787-8 aircraft featuring fully redesigned cabins, including Premium Business suites with sliding doors, as part of a $360 million fleet modernization program covering 24 aircraft. With this rollout, LATAM becomes the first airline in South America to offer this level of onboard experience, which includes an updated Economy cabin and a design aesthetic inspired by South America’s natural beauty.
The first flight with the new configuration departed from Santiago to Mexico City on April 26. The next two 787-8s will enter service on May 3 and May 6, on routes to Bogotá and Miami, respectively. These three Chile-based aircraft will also operate flights to Easter Island, Madrid, New York, and Los Angeles.
Privacy and comfort are central to the new Premium Business cabin, which features:
- Direct aisle access
- Fully flat beds
- Personal storage compartments
- USB-A and USB-C ports
- 18-inch HD entertainment screens
The design is inspired by the natural beauty of South America, incorporating elements that reflect LATAM's regional identity.
Paulo Miranda, LATAM’s Vice President of Customers, stated: “As we continue modernizing our fleet and elevating the flight experience in South America, LATAM is proud to be the first airline in the region to innovate Premium Business with the addition of doors on our seats.” He added that the upgrade offers “unprecedented privacy and comfort, inspired by local beauty.”
In Economy, LATAM has introduced new ergonomic seats, made with up to 70% recycled leather, significantly reducing water usage in production. Passengers can also opt for Economy Plus, which offers:
- Extra legroom
- Increased recline
- Footrests
- Dedicated overhead bin space
The cabin redesign is part of a retrofit program affecting 10 Boeing 787-8s and 14 Boeing 787-9s, all used for international and select domestic routes in Chile, Brazil, and Peru. Refurbishment is being carried out at LATAM’s maintenance centers in São Carlos (Brazil) and Santiago (Chile), with the project expected to wrap up by the second half of 2026. Each aircraft requires 1–2 months of work, depending on upgrade complexity.
Mark Hiller, CEO of RECARO Aircraft Seating, the supplier behind the new Premium Business seats, said: “We’re thrilled to enter the next phase of our partnership with LATAM and launch the R7 on its first flight from Santiago. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed with the passenger in mind, emphasizing comfort, privacy, and the elegance of South American culture.”
With this fleet renewal, LATAM aims to strengthen its long-haul value proposition, combining technological innovation, environmental efficiency, and a regionally inspired design identity.
AUTOR
Contando la aviación desde marzo del año 2000. Fundador y Managing Editor de Aviacionline.
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