30 Apr 2019 | 03:06 AM UTC
Brazil: Avianca Brasil cancels 2000 flights until May 8 /update 3
Avianca Brasil cancels nearly 2000 flights until May 8 as it restricts operations to four airports; confirm flight status
Event
Avianca Brasil announced it would cancel nearly 2000 flights from Monday, April 29, to Wednesday, May 8, as the airline dramatically reduces operations. The airline has restricted operations to just four airports: São Paulo-Congonhas Airport (CGH), Rio de Janeiro Santos Dupont Airport (SDU), Brasília-Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport (BSB), and Salvador-Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA). It was ordered to return the majority of its fleet to lenders and is now operating with only seven airplanes and completing an average of 37 daily flights. Further cancelations and flight adjustments are likely in the coming weeks.
Context
Avianca Brasil filed for bankruptcy protection four months ago and had appealed to keep possession of planes on credit. The airline previously operated 35 planes.
Advice
Individuals flying Avianca Brasil are advised to confirm their flight status, make alternate travel plans if necessary, contact the airline for more information regarding flights and refund or rebooking options, and anticipate further flight cancelations and congestion on operating flights.
