MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

LAN received first of 20 Airbus A318 to replace ageing 737-200 fleet

LAN Airlines S.A. one of the leading airline groups in Latin America held Monday the reception ceremony for the first Airbus A318 aircraft to be incorporated into the Company's fleet.

This plane features the most advanced technology and will operate the Company's Chilean domestic routes. Between 2007 and 2008, LAN expects to receive 20 new Airbus A318 aircraft. These planes, together with other Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft will replace the Company's Boeing 737-200 fleet, providing the highest standards in terms of comfort and service. Additionally, the Airbus A318 aircraft are quieter, thus operating with reduced cabin noise and vibrations. In line with LAN's concern with protecting the environment, these aircraft comply with environmental protection norms, such as EMS (Environmental Management System), based on ISO 14001, and possess maximum fuel efficiency. During the inauguration ceremony at the Company's maintenance base in Santiago, Jorge Awad, the Company's Chairman stated, "We are very proud to incorporate this airplane into LAN's fleet. We believe that it will allow us to provide the best product with the highest standards in terms of safety and service for our domestic passengers. In this way, we are confirming our commitment to operate the most modern fleet in the world for our customers in Chile". Between 2007 and 2011, LAN expects to invest approximately 2.6 billion US dollars in the renewal and growth of the Company's fleet. This includes the incorporation of 52 new passenger and cargo aircraft, reaching 115 aircraft by 2011.