Aerolíneas Argentinas to Add A330neos and 737 MAX Jets in Fleet Upgrade
Aerolíneas Argentinas Charts Major Fleet Modernization with 18-Aircraft Investment Plan
Aerolíneas Argentinas unveiled a comprehensive fleet modernization strategy on November 28, 2025, announcing the acquisition of four Airbus A330neo and 14 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft as part of its first self-financed investment plan. This marks a watershed moment for the Argentine carrier, which will fund the expansion entirely through its own resources without government support.
The fleet expansion directly reflects the airline’s dramatic financial turnaround. After accumulating average annual losses of USD 400 million between 2008 and 2023, Aerolíneas Argentinas posted its first positive operating result in 2024, generating USD 56.6 million in EBIT—a figure projected to double in 2025. This recovery enabled the carrier to pursue autonomous capital investment for the first time since the state regained controlling shares.
“The modernize the fleet, improve the passenger travel experience, and consolidate its profitability and market positioning strategy in both the domestic and international markets,” stated the airline in its announcement.
The A330neo aircraft represent the cornerstone of this strategy, particularly for long-haul international operations. Aerolíneas Argentinas already operates a fleet of A330-200ceo aircraft, and the newer neo variants offer significant operational advantages. “The transition to these aircraft is a natural step in the evolution of this segment, as they share much of their spare parts platform, simulators, and technical training with the A330ceo,” the airline noted. This operational commonality reduces training costs and supply chain complexity while maximizing efficiency.
The Boeing 737 MAX acquisition encompasses 14 aircraft split across three variants: two MAX 8s, four MAX 9s, and eight MAX 10s. Two MAX 8s are scheduled to join the fleet in the coming days, expanding an existing commitment. The carrier already operates 15 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and has demonstrated confidence in the platform’s reliability and profitability on high-demand domestic and regional routes.
“The MAX family of aircraft has demonstrated outstanding performance both globally and within the Aerolíneas Argentinas fleet,” the airline confirmed, noting that the newer MAX 9 and MAX 10 models will increase capacity and profitability on regional expansion routes.
Beyond aircraft acquisition, Aerolíneas Argentinas plans substantial cabin upgrades and digital connectivity enhancements. The carrier will modernize cabin interiors across its existing A330ceo fleet and introduce fleet-wide Wi-Fi connectivity beginning in 2027, with A330 aircraft receiving the service first, followed by Boeing 737 and Embraer 190 aircraft.
All new aircraft will enter service under operating lease agreements, preserving balance sheet flexibility while securing modern capacity. Combined with the two incoming MAX 8s, Aerolíneas Argentinas’ fleet will grow to 101 aircraft, substantially increasing seat capacity and service flexibility.
Fabián Lombardo, President and CEO, emphasized the strategic significance: “This plan represents a capitalization of the company through securing orders for the 18 aircraft, an action that will strengthen our position in both the local and international markets.” The investment underscores Aerolíneas Argentinas’ transformation from a loss-making entity dependent on government subsidy to a self-sustaining, growth-oriented carrier capable of attracting premium passengers through modernized aircraft and enhanced in-flight amenities.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764590446416-1032