LATAM Brazil has confirmed an extensive international and domestic expansion strategy set to roll out in 2026, significantly enhancing its global network and reinforcing its commitment to key continental markets. A central element of this strategic growth is the launch of a new São Paulo–Cape Town route, with service projected to commence in September 2026. This route will operate three times per week using modern Boeing 787 aircraft, marking a significant milestone for the airline’s presence in southern Africa.

The introduction of the São Paulo–Cape Town service represents a landmark development for Africa's aviation and tourism sectors, establishing the first direct commercial connection between Brazil and Cape Town. This complements LATAM’s already operational São Paulo–Johannesburg route, which resumed in 2023 and has steadily increased its frequencies. The dual-gateway model positions Cape Town to cater specifically to leisure and lifestyle-driven demand, while Johannesburg maintains its role as a strategic hub for commercial activities, partnerships, and regional onward connections. The direct connectivity is expected to boost two-way tourism flows, reduce travel times, and enhance the appeal of South America for integrated itineraries.

Moreover, the substantial belly-hold capacity of the Boeing 787 aircraft presents considerable opportunities for freight operators, facilitating the export of perishables, pharmaceuticals, and specialized products between Brazil and South Africa, thereby fostering a more balanced commercial corridor.

Beyond its African initiatives, LATAM’s 2026 expansion also emphasizes primary European markets. New flights from São Paulo–Guarulhos to Amsterdam are scheduled to begin in April 2026, followed by a new service to Brussels in June 2026. Both routes will operate three times weekly, also utilizing Boeing 787 aircraft. These additions underscore LATAM’s long-haul strategy of deploying its 787-based intercontinental fleet, extending its reach and augmenting an already comprehensive European network that includes major cities such as Madrid, Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome, Milan, Paris, Frankfurt, and London. The Amsterdam route capitalizes on the city's strategic importance in global connectivity, while the Brussels service leverages its political and institutional relevance, collectively enhancing access to high-yield market segments.

Domestically, LATAM is accelerating expansion within Brazil with plans to introduce four new destinations: Uberaba, Juiz de Fora, Caldas Novas, and Campina Grande. This expansion will bring the total number of Brazilian airports served by the carrier to 63, according to industry sources. The improved domestic reach is designed to strengthen feeder traffic into São Paulo–Guarulhos, ensuring that the new long-haul operations benefit from a robust and integrated connectivity structure. LATAM CEO Jerome Cadier indicated that this comprehensive 2026 expansion is the outcome of meticulous commercial evaluation, with each route selected based on detailed analysis of proven travel demand. This strategy aligns with a multi-year plan to centralize international growth at São Paulo–Guarulhos, solidifying its status as the airline group’s largest and most crucial hub.

For South Africa, the São Paulo–Cape Town launch is poised to significantly invigorate one of the country's most dynamic tourism engines. Cape Town’s diverse attractions, including outdoor activities, a rich culinary culture, historical heritage sites, and growing business travel demand, align perfectly with the preferences of Brazilian travelers. The establishment of a direct route eliminates the need for connections through Johannesburg or other non-African hubs, simplifying travel and broadening Cape Town's appeal across South America. Industry observers anticipate that this service will stimulate new corporate links, facilitate sports tourism exchanges, and create joint marketing opportunities between Brazil and South Africa.

From a broader continental perspective, LATAM's expansion has profound implications for Africa's long-haul market, increasing its visibility within LATAM's global strategy and potentially paving the way for future collaborations with regional carriers or expanded interline partnerships.