Aerolíneas Argentinas Unveils Major Fleet Plan: 18 New Aircraft and Self-Financed Expansion

In a move that signals a definitive shift in its management model, Aerolíneas Argentinas has announced a comprehensive fleet renewal plan involving the incorporation of 18 new aircraft funded entirely through its own resources. The initiative, which introduces the Airbus A330neo and the largest variants of the Boeing 737 MAX to the country, aims to consolidate the state carrier’s financial independence following a historic operating surplus.

A Financial Turning Point

The announcement comes at a critical time for the airline. According to the company, 2025 will mark the first year in its recent history that Aerolíneas Argentinas will not receive funding from the National Treasury. This milestone follows a turnaround in 2024, where the carrier reported a positive Operating Result (EBIT) of USD 56.6 million, reversing a 15-year trend of deficits that averaged USD 400 million annually between 2008 and 2023.

For the fiscal year 2025, the company projects to double this operating result. “With this milestone, Aerolíneas Argentinas confirms that it has transformed into a company with investment capacity and projection using its own resources,” stated Fabián Lombardo, CEO of Aerolíneas Argentinas. Lombardo emphasized that the plan represents a capitalization of the company by taking positions in orders for the 18 aircraft, a move designed to strengthen its standing in both local and international markets.

Strategic Fleet Renewal

The core of the investment—exceeding USD 65 million in cabin upgrades and connectivity alone—focuses on a specialized mix of aircraft intended to lower Unit Costs (CASK) and improve revenue potential. The aircraft will enter the fleet under operating lease agreements, providing flexibility without the heavy capital expenditure of direct purchasing.

The Long-Haul Bet: Airbus A330neo

The carrier will introduce four Airbus A330neo aircraft. For Aerolíneas Argentinas, the choice of the A330neo is a logical evolutionary step for its widebody segment. It allows for high commonality with the current A330ceo fleet regarding spare parts, simulators, and technical training, drastically reducing the costs associated with introducing a new type.

The A330neo offers a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 25% per seat compared to previous models and improved range capabilities. With a capacity for approximately 300 passengers, these aircraft will update the long-haul value proposition. Simultaneously, the existing A330ceo fleet will undergo interior retrofits to harmonize the passenger experience across the widebody operation.

Narrowbody Efficiency: The MAX 9 and 10

In a bid to dominate high-density domestic and regional routes, the airline is diversifying its narrowbody fleet with 14 new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The order breakdown includes:

• Two Boeing 737 MAX 8.

• Four Boeing 737 MAX 9.

• Eight Boeing 737 MAX 10.

Competitive Strategy: Efficiency in High Density

The fleet mix reveals a clear strategy to adapt to an increasingly competitive market by lowering seat costs. The inclusion of the MAX 10 is pivotal; as the largest variant of the 737 family, it can accommodate up to 210 passengers. This allows the airline to maximize revenue on trunk routes where slot constraints or high demand dictate the need for larger gauge aircraft.

According to manufacturer data cited by the airline, the MAX 10 delivers a 19% reduction in fuel burn per seat compared to previous models. This efficiency gain is essential for Aerolíneas Argentinas to defend its market share on high-traffic corridors against low-cost competitors. The MAX 9, with capacity for 190 passengers, also contributes with a 17% fuel reduction per seat.

CEO Fabián Lombardo noted that the goal is to consolidate a fleet of “high profitability” with a product that passengers already recognize as “superior in the region”. To reinforce this differentiation, the carrier confirmed the installation of Wi-Fi across its fleet, starting with the A330s in 2027 and later extending to the 737 and Embraer fleets.

Current Fleet Status

As of late 2025, the Aerolíneas Argentinas fleet stands at 83 aircraft, comprising:

• 10 Airbus A330-200

• 15 Boeing 737 MAX 8

• 28 Boeing 737-800

• 4 Boeing 737-700

• 24 Embraer E190

• 2 Boeing 737-800BCF (Freighters).

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Pablo Diaz

Pablo Diaz is an award-winning journalist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is also Editor In Chief of Aviacionline.com. Law, Engineering, and a pinch of science. When in doubt, trust evidence.

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