MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Brazilian Gol airline begins flying to Chile

Brazilian airline Gol, one of the fastest growing in the industry will begin regular flights to Chile with 21 weekly schedules, reported the company in Sao Paulo.

Gol was authorized by Chile's Civil Aviation Agency and "has begun making necessary plans to begin operations in the route to Chile", said the company in a brief release.

"With a strong economy and a high growth rate Chile has become a strategic destination for economic integration in South American", said Gol's Tarcisio Grodoni, Marketing and Service vice-president.

For flights between Brazil and Santiago, Gol will be using Boeing 737/800 with a passenger capacity of 177.

"With this latest authorization and six other international destinations where the company is already flying, will enable Gol to further extend and promote cheap air travel among South American neighbouring countries", added Grodoni.

Gol began flying in 2001 with six aircrafts and now has a fleet of 47 Boeing 737 with over 460 daily flights to 49 different destinations including the six international.

Gol's fast expansion and the collapse of the traditional Brazilian flag carrier Varig has positioned the company in second place in the domestic market with a 30% share, behind TAM with 44.21%. However Varig continues to lead in international flights originating in Brazil with 70% of the market.

Gol regionally flies to Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay. This year besides Chile the company is targeting Peru.