When it comes to exploring South America—or connecting it to the rest of the globe—LATAM Airlines is the name most travelers know. With deep regional roots and an expanding international network, LATAM blends local expertise with global reach. Whether you’re flying to Santiago, São Paulo, Lima, or far beyond, the airline offers comfort, connectivity, and a distinctly Latin American hospitality.
From Regional Roots to a Global Carrier
LATAM Airlines was born from the merger of Chile’s LAN Airlines and Brazil’s TAM Airlines in 2012, creating one of the largest airline groups in the Southern Hemisphere. Headquartered in Santiago, Chile, LATAM serves over 130 destinations in 25+ countries, operating an extensive network that covers South America, North America, Europe, Oceania, and parts of Africa.
The airline’s size and coverage make it a lifeline for both business and leisure travelers navigating South America’s vast geography.
Fleet and Modernization
LATAM operates a mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including the modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 for long-haul routes. These newer planes offer:
- Quieter cabins for a more restful journey.
- Larger windows and improved lighting.
- Better fuel efficiency, which supports the airline’s sustainability goals.
On domestic and short-haul routes, LATAM uses Airbus A320 family aircraft, known for reliable service and quick turnarounds.
Cabin Classes and Experience
LATAM offers three main cabin experiences:
- Economy – Comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment via seatback screens or the LATAM Play app, and complimentary meals or snacks depending on route length.
- Premium Economy – Available on select short and medium-haul flights, with extra legroom, enhanced meals, and priority boarding.
- Premium Business – Lie-flat seats on long-haul flights, gourmet dining with wine pairings, amenity kits, and access to LATAM VIP lounges.
No matter the cabin, LATAM leans into Latin American flavors and service touches—like regional wines and local specialties on international flights.
Frequent Flyer Benefits with LATAM Pass
LATAM’s loyalty program, LATAM Pass, rewards travelers with miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and partner services. The program is part of a network of airline partnerships, allowing members to earn and use miles across multiple carriers. Elite tiers bring perks like:
- Priority check-in and boarding.
- Extra baggage allowance.
- Lounge access across the LATAM network and partners.
Destinations and Connectivity
A few of LATAM’s notable strengths include:
- Intra-South America connectivity – Serving smaller cities and regional hubs that might otherwise require complex routing.
- Strong links to North America – Nonstop flights to cities like Miami, New York, Los Angeles, and Orlando.
- Europe access – Routes to Madrid, Barcelona, Frankfurt, London, and Paris.
- Oceania connections – Nonstop service from Santiago to Sydney and Melbourne.
For travelers exploring South America, LATAM often offers the most direct and frequent connections.
Sustainability Commitments
LATAM has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Initiatives include fleet modernization, sustainable aviation fuel testing, waste reduction, and reforestation projects. The airline also partners with environmental organizations to support conservation in sensitive ecosystems like the Amazon.
Traveler Reviews and Feedback
Many passengers praise LATAM for:
- Reliable schedules within South America.
- Modern aircraft on long-haul routes.
- Friendly bilingual cabin crew.
Some travelers note that service and amenities can vary depending on the route and aircraft, so it’s worth checking reviews for your specific flight. As with many global carriers, baggage policies and change fees can be strict on lower-priced tickets, so reviewing fare terms before booking is essential.
Why LATAM Works for 2025 Travel
South America is seeing a surge in tourism and business travel. LATAM’s vast network, strategic hubs in Santiago, São Paulo, and Lima, and continued fleet investments make it well-positioned to meet that demand. For travelers seeking to explore multiple countries in the region—or connect South America to the world—LATAM offers both scale and regional know-how.
Final Takeaway:
Whether you’re flying across the Andes, heading to a beach in Brazil, or connecting to Europe or Australia, LATAM Airlines provides the routes, service, and cultural warmth that make the journey part of the adventure. In 2025, it remains a top choice for anyone navigating the skies of South America and beyond.