On February 28, 2025, Avion Express Brasil proudly announced it has received authorization from the Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC) to commence operations within Brazil. This marks the launch of the company as the first airline specializing exclusively in the ACMI business model (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) within the country.
The certification allows Avion Express Brasil to provide operational solutions for other airlines, ensuring flexibility and efficiency. Under the ACMI model, Avion ExpressBrasil will lease aircraft along with crew and maintenance support to other operators. The contracted airlines will then handle ticket sales and operational costs such as fuel and airport fees, allowing for seamless operations during peak travel periods.
According to ANAC, this innovative approach will help Brazilian airlines optimize their operational capabilities and manage seasonal fluctuations more effectively. "This business model enables airlines to temporarily expand their operations during high-demand seasons, such as holidays and special events, ensuring service continuity even when aircraft become unavailable," stated ANAC.
Avion Express, which is part of the Avia Solutions Group based in Ireland, celebrated its receipt of the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), which formally authorizes the company to operate commercial flights within Brazilian airspace. "With the certificate now active, Avion Express Brasil is set to initiate commercial operations by the end of March 2025, deploying up to ten Airbus A320 aircraft by year’s end," said the company’s management.
Darius Kajokas, CEO of Avion Express, expressed optimism about the potential impact of their services. He highlighted Brazil as a key market for growth, stating, "Our ACMI solutions will provide Brazilian airlines with the flexibility they need to optimize their operations. We are confident our services will help bridge capacity gaps, maintaining the highest standards of efficiency and reliability."
While specific routes for Avion Express Brasil have yet to be disclosed, the introduction of ACMI services is set to position the company as a significant player within the Brazilian aviation market. This operational strategy allows airlines to respond dynamically to fluctuative market demands without the financial burden of increasing their own fleets.
Esteban Jauregui Lorda, the newly appointed CEO of Avion Express Brasil, has extensive experience within the aviation sector, having previously worked with airlines such as Avianca, Gol, and Aerolíneas Argentinas. Under his guidance, the Brazilian subsidiary aims to establish itself as the go-to ACMI provider for local airlines.
The new operations are expected to not only facilitate increased capacity for domestic airlines but also provide more options and potentially lower fares for passengers. By serving as facilitators for air travel demand, ACMI models empower airlines to navigate peak periods and maintain operational integrity.
The approval and impending operation of Avion Express Brasil resonate with broader ambitions within Latin America’s aviation sector. Having already established partnerships with airlines in Mexico and Argentina, Avion Express is clearly positioning itself as an integral player across the continent.
This endeavor highlights advancements not only for Avion Express but for the overall competitive nature of the aviation industry in Brazil, showcasing a commitment to modernizing the airline sector. By incentivizing innovative operational models like ACMI, ANAC is effectively paving the way for increased competition and improved customer services within Brazilian air travel.
With Avion Express poised to enter the market, industry watchers eagerly anticipate how the existing airlines will respond to this new competition and what strategies they will employ to retain their market share. The future of air travel is about to get more dynamic with Avion Express's entry.
Overall, the arrival of Avion Express Brasil not only signifies the establishment of another airline but also emphasizes the role of ACMI solutions as pivotal for enhancing efficiency within the aviation industry. Whether for increased flights during busy seasons or seamless operational transitions, it seems clear Avion Express Brasil holds considerable promise for reshaping the air travel experience for both consumers and airlines alike.