LAN completes replacement process for its short-haul fleet

As LAN Airlines retires its last Boeing 737-200, the company begins to service short-haul routes using only Airbus aircraft, offering one of the most modern air fleets in the world to passengers traveling in the region.

Santiago, May 30th, 2008.

LAN Airlines completed the replacement of its air fleet operating short distance routes. The process that began in the year 2000 completed its objectives the company retired its last Boeing 737-200.

The company now offers its Latin American passengers one of the most modern air fleets in the world. All short distance routes will now be serviced by the new family of Airbus A320s. During the replacement process, LAN acquired 40 aircraft, which include models like the A320, A319 and A318. These aircraft are valued at approximately $2.4 billion USD.

The Airbus A320s are equipped with the most advanced technology available in the industry and offer the most ample and comfortable passenger seating in its category. The noticeable noise and vibration reduction in the cabin demonstrate that these aircraft are amongst the most quiet in the industry. They are equipped with the latest generation of digital entertainment systems, leather seats and 12 monitors/screens that transmit specially designed programming for each flight and offer the highest of standards in comfort, service and security.

The Airbus fleet fits LAN's commitment to the protection of the environment. The fleet was designed with a new environmental system ( EMS ) based on the ISO14001 norms and assures that the strictest of measurements for its materials throughout the lifespan of the aircraft. As a result, these aircraft are fuel efficient and have reduced CO2 emissions by about 10%.

These new aircraft were designed to significantly reduce noise levels which decrease the acoustic impact near airport runways which benefits all terminal personnel and in the nearby communities.

During a ceremony that took place at LAN's maintenance hangar in Santiago, Chile, Jorge Awad, Chairman of the Board of LAN Airlines noted, "We have completed a process that began 8 years ago. Today the result is the ability to offer our regional passengers a solid product portfolio. We have remained true to our commitment to operate one of the most modern air fleets in the world with a long term plan to continue acquiring aircraft of the latest generation to offer excellence in service and security standards".

The current air fleet is comprised of 68 passenger aircraft (of which 40 are Airbus family A320s used to service short distance routes) and 9 cargo aircraft.