Air France-KLM is improving its connections to Brazil through the launch of a new route to Brasilia as well as increasing frequency and capacity, or introducing newer aircraft, on other routes.
Air France is to begin serving the Brazilian capital thrice-weekly from Paris Charles de Gaulle on 31 March 2014. The service will be operated using a Boeing 777-200 configured with 309 seats, of which 35 are in business class, 24 in premium economy and 250 in economy. Brasilia will be Air France’s third destination in Brazil.
The airline intends to substitute 777-200s and -300s with Airbus A380s on services to São Paulo during the first half of next year. However, this is subject to agreement with the Brazilian government and São Paulo's airport authorities.
From 30 March 2014, Air France will stop using a 432-seat Boeing 747-400 for night flights to Rio de Janeiro from Paris. The jumbo will be replaced by a 381-seat 777-300.
Meanwhile, KLM is extending its fifth weekly flight between Amsterdam and Rio de Janeiro beyond 27 October, for the 2013-2014 winter season.
The enhancements to the SkyTeam carrier's Brazilian services come ahead of the country hosting the 2014 World Cup football tournament, which starts in June 2014.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
