LATAM and Japan Airlines Deepen Partnership: 6 New Brazilian Cities Added to Codeshare Network

The dream of seamless travel from Tokyo’s neon skyline to Brazil’s sun-drenched beaches just got closer. LATAM Airlines and Japan Airlines (JAL) are expanding their codeshare alliance, adding six new Brazilian destinations to their shared network starting July 2024. This strategic move connects São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport (GRU) to Florianópolis, Maringá, Belém, Cuiabá, Goiânia, and Rio de Janeiro’s Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), bringing their total shared routes in Brazil to 33. For travelers, it means one ticket, one check-in, and automated baggage transfers for journeys spanning continents—a game-changer for business and tourism.

How the LATAM Japan Airlines Codeshare Transforms Travel

This expansion is far more than added flight options. It bridges Latin America and Asia through a streamlined passenger experience. Travelers from Japan or other Asian hubs can now book a single itinerary via JAL, transit through São Paulo, and reach emerging Brazilian markets without rechecking luggage or navigating multiple bookings. The efficiency is critical for time-sensitive business trips and multi-destination tourism.

LATAM’s dominance in Brazil—controlling 38% of domestic flights and transporting 82 million passengers in 2024, per Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC)—combines with JAL’s vast network of 130 domestic and 66 global routes. This synergy capitalizes on resurgent travel demand: Brazil welcomed 4 million international visitors by mid-2024, a 10% year-on-year increase attributed partly to new air links, according to Embratur (Brazil’s Tourism Board). The codeshare fuels economic activity, too, enabling smoother access for investors, conference attendees, and exporters across both regions.

Economic and Tourism Impacts of the Expanded Alliance

The new routes target Brazil’s high-growth corridors. Cuiabá (a gateway to the Pantanal wetlands) and Belém (near the Amazon) unlock ecotourism, while Goiânia and Maringá serve agribusiness hubs. Florianópolis and Rio de Janeiro cater to leisure travelers. This strategic alignment supports Brazil’s goal to boost foreign visits, with Embratur forecasting record tourism revenue by 2025.

For airlines, shared flights optimize seat occupancy and reduce operational costs. Passengers gain reliability: if a LATAM flight from São Paulo to Florianópolis is delayed, JAL assumes responsibility for rebooking. Industry analysts note such partnerships rebuild post-pandemic connectivity faster than solo ventures. As one aviation expert observed, “Codeshares like this compress geographic and logistical barriers, turning distant regions into accessible neighbors.”

This LATAM Japan Airlines codeshare expansion reshapes intercontinental travel, replacing fragmentation with frictionless journeys. Expect shorter layovers, less stress, and stronger bonds between Asia and Latin America. Check both airlines’ websites this July to book your streamlined adventure.

Must Know

What is the LATAM Japan Airlines codeshare expansion?
LATAM and JAL added six Brazilian cities to their shared network, enabling passengers to book integrated flights across both airlines with unified check-in and baggage handling. This brings their total codeshare routes in Brazil to 33.

Which new Brazilian cities are included?
The new destinations from São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport are Florianópolis, Maringá, Belém, Cuiabá, Goiânia, and Rio de Janeiro’s Santos Dumont Airport.

When does the expanded codeshare start?
The new routes become operational in July 2024. Tickets are expected to be available for booking starting June 2024.

How does this benefit travelers?
Passengers enjoy seamless transfers without rechecking bags or managing separate reservations. It simplifies travel planning, reduces connection stress, and protects against delays through coordinated customer service.

Why is this partnership significant for Brazil?
It enhances Brazil’s global connectivity, supporting tourism and trade. Embratur data shows new air links directly contribute to rising international visits and economic growth in regional hubs.

How extensive is Japan Airlines’ network?
JAL serves over 130 domestic and 66 international destinations, making it a pivotal bridge between Asia and Latin America via this LATAM partnership.