Transbrasil, which admitted earlier this year that it was the Brazilian carrier most vulnerable to the effects of the country's partial deregulation, has announced a series of changes aimed at regaining the local market share it has lost over the last three years.
Founded by Omar Fontana 40 years ago, the airline's market share has dropped from 28% in 1995 to 19% this year. It has set itself a target of getting back to 25% in two years.
Fontana, who until this year doubled as owner and president, appears to be taking a back seat and has appointed Antonio Celso Cipriani to take over the latter role. The airline has scrapped some of its loss-making routes and intends to turn Sao Paulo's Guarulhos Airport into a hub. By doing so, it hopes to save 8% of its operating costs and increase revenues by 15% annually.
Plans are being made to lease three Boeing 737-400s for the Brazilian summer and a further two 737-300s and 767-200s early next year. Some of its shorter routes will be handed over to its subsidiary, Interbrasil Star.
Transbrasil, which this year began codesharing agreements with TAP and Delta Air Lines, has also unveiled a more modern version of its rainbow-style colour scheme, introduced a mileage programme and started a new thrice-weekly service between Sao Paulo and Santiago.
Source: Airline Business
