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Aerolineas Argentinas to modernize fleet with new A330neos, updated business class, and Wi-Fi
Aerolineas Argentinas plans to add 20 modern aircraft, retrofit existing A330s with a new business class, and introduce fleetwide Wi-Fi by 2031.
The gist
Aerolineas Argentinas is upgrading its fleet and cabins with new Airbus A330neos, Boeing 737 MAXs, updated business class, and onboard Wi-Fi.
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Aerolineas Argentinas, the flagship carrier of Argentina and a member of SkyTeam, is initiating a significant modernization effort to revamp its aging fleet and improve passenger experience. After struggling financially for nearly two decades under government ownership, the airline posted profits of $56.6 million in 2024 and $112.7 million in 2025 without relying on government support for the first time since being nationalized. Building on this momentum, the airline is committing to comprehensive investments including new aircraft acquisitions and cabin upgrades.
Currently, Aerolineas Argentinas operates a diverse fleet of about 80 aircraft, including Airbus A330-200s for long haul routes, Boeing 737s for domestic and regional flights, and Embraer E190s for short haul services. The carrier plans to enhance this fleet by leasing 20 new aircraft: six Airbus A330-900neos, which will join the existing 10 A330-200s with deliveries starting in early 2028, and 14 Boeing 737 MAX jets—six MAX 8s arriving from the first quarter of 2027, and eight MAX 10s expected by 2028, pending certification.
This fresh influx of aircraft will boost Aerolineas Argentinas' operational efficiency and align it with contemporary standards. The Boeing 737 MAX additions will replace older 737 variants, while the A330-900neos complement the current long-haul fleet. All 20 aircraft deliveries should be completed by 2031, signifying a multi-year fleet renewal strategy aimed at extending the airline's competitive reach both domestically and internationally.
In parallel with fleet growth, Aerolineas Argentinas is investing approximately $65 million into upgrading the cabins of its existing Airbus A330s. This retrofit will introduce a revamped business class offering designed to harmonize with the cabin experience on the incoming A330-900neos. Presently, the airline’s business class features an outdated angled seat in a 2-2-2 layout, which is uncompetitive by modern standards.
The new business class on the Airbus A330-900neos will mirror the staggered Vantage XL seating arrangement seen on ITA Airways’ A330-900s, offering improved privacy and comfort for 30 seats per aircraft. Additionally, the cabins will include 24 premium economy and 237 economy seats, set in a total 291-seat configuration. This standardization promises a consistent and upgraded product on long-haul routes, matching global expectations for full-service carriers.
Connectivity is another focus for Aerolineas Argentinas’ overhaul. Starting in 2027, the airline will deploy onboard Wi-Fi across its fleet, beginning with the Airbus A330s and cascading to Boeing 737s and Embraer E190s. For this, the airline has partnered with Intelsat to provide multi-orbit satellite connectivity leveraging a new electronically steered array antenna, aiming for reliable and fast internet service for passengers across all flight phases.
These initiatives reflect Aerolineas Argentinas’ strategic push to regain market relevance with competitive aircraft, enhanced comfort, and modern amenities after years of operational and financial challenges. The combined effect of new aircraft, cabin improvements, and onboard Wi-Fi addresses multiple passenger expectations while updating the airline’s aging operational assets.
Completing this modernization program by 2031 positions Aerolineas Argentinas to better compete against regional and global rivals, supporting growth and profitability with a contemporary fleet and upgraded service product. The transition underscores a tangible shift from survival mode to growth and modernization for Argentina’s flag carrier.
Frequently asked questions
- What new aircraft will Aerolineas Argentinas add to its fleet?
- Aerolineas Argentinas plans to lease six Airbus A330-900neos and 14 Boeing 737 MAX jets (six MAX 8s and eight MAX 10s), with deliveries starting in 2027 and completing by 2031.
- How will the business class product change on Aerolineas Argentinas' long-haul planes?
- The A330s will be retrofitted with a new business class featuring staggered Vantage XL seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, replacing the current angled 2-2-2 seats for a more competitive offering.
- When will Aerolineas Argentinas introduce onboard Wi-Fi?
- Starting in 2027, Aerolineas Argentinas will roll out Wi-Fi across its fleet beginning with the Airbus A330s, followed by Boeing 737s and Embraer E190s, using Intelsat's multi-orbit satellite connectivity.
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