Brazil: Avianca Brasil cancels 600 flights until May 9 /update 4

Event

Avianca Brasil has announced it would cancel over 600 flights from Tuesday, May 7, to Friday, May 9, as the airline continues to limit operations. The airline restricted operations to 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). 

Avianca Brasil was also ordered to return the majority of its fleet to lenders and is now operating with only six airplanes and completing an average of 37 daily flights. On Monday, May 6, Airbus filed a court motion to have four of the airline's remaining aircraft returned to the manufacturer. 

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. 

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.