LATAM Airlines is entering a new phase of global growth. The carrier announced a 6% increase in international capacity between August 2025 and August 2026, and confirmed that it is conducting feasibility studies for new routes from Brazil to the Middle East and Africa — a bold expansion that could soon link South America directly to two regions historically underserved by Latin carriers.
Expanding Horizons
LATAM’s executives revealed that the airline is evaluating several new long-haul opportunities. Aline Mafra, LATAM Brazil’s Sales & Marketing Director, said the expansion reflects “the evolution of demand and our commitment to enhance international connectivity with routes and schedules that make sense for the Brazilian customer.”
If the new routes move forward, LATAM could become the first major South American airline to operate regular non-stop flights from Brazil to the Middle East and Africa, marking a milestone in the region’s aviation history.
Strong Growth in North America and Europe
In addition to these prospective routes, LATAM will significantly increase its current international frequencies:
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São Paulo/Guarulhos – Orlando: 14 weekly flights starting June 2026.
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São Paulo – Los Angeles: 5 weekly flights.
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São Paulo – Miami: 15 weekly flights.
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São Paulo – Boston: 4 weekly flights starting May 2026.
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São Paulo – Rome (Fiumicino): daily service from June 2026.
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São Paulo – Barcelona: 5 weekly from April 2026, ramping up to daily in June.
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São Paulo – Madrid: 14 weekly flights starting April 2026.
These expansions will make Brazil an even stronger aviation hub for South America, improving connectivity to both hemispheres.
Domestic Investments Continue
While looking abroad, LATAM is also strengthening its presence inside Brazil. The carrier will soon receive new Embraer E195-E2 jets, designed for better fuel efficiency and enabling direct services between mid-sized Brazilian cities that previously required connections. The company also opened new recruitment rounds for pilots and cabin crew, signaling sustained growth across all divisions.
Why It Matters
This expansion represents more than new destinations — it symbolizes a shift in Brazil’s global aviation role. Direct flights from Brazil to the Middle East or Africa would:
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Open new tourism and business corridors.
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Simplify travel for expatriate and diaspora communities.
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Strengthen trade and cultural exchange.
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Position LATAM as a bridge between Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.
For travelers, this means shorter connections, new destinations, and greater competition — factors that usually lead to better fares and service options.
Looking Ahead
Although LATAM has not yet confirmed specific cities, possible contenders for these new routes include Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi in the Middle East and Johannesburg or Cape Town in Africa — all major gateways with strong potential for partnerships and onward connections.
If approved, these routes would debut as early as 2026, continuing LATAM’s evolution into a network airline connecting Brazil directly to almost every continent.
