After 12 years without a national airline, Uruguay is set to see the launch of Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación, known as SUA Líneas Aéreas, a new carrier that will operate Airbus A220-300 aircraft leased from airBaltic. The announcement was made at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) in Spain on January 28, 2024, and a formal event to reveal further details is scheduled for January 28, 2025, at Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport.
Uruguay’s First Airbus A220 Operator
SUA will be the first airline in Latin America and the Caribbean to operate the A220, marking a significant milestone for both the region and airBaltic’s expanding ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) business. The initial plan includes six aircraft, to be introduced gradually over 18 months, with a target of 10 aircraft within three years.
The A220-300 is a fuel-efficient, next-generation aircraft that fits well with SUA’s goal of providing modern and competitive operations. The airline also plans to develop a regional maintenance and operations center for the A220, as well as install a Category D full-flight simulator for pilot training within five years.
Challenges and Future Plans
Before SUA can commence operations, it must secure an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and obtain A220 type certification in Uruguay. The project is backed by the Uruguayan government and Saudi private investors, aligning with recent airport infrastructure upgrades in Salto, Paysandú, Rivera, and Punta del Este.
The airline’s CEO and founder, Antonio Rama, is a Boeing 777 captain at Qatar Airways and previously launched U-Air, a short-lived low-cost airline in Uruguay from 2003 to 2005. His experience in both commercial aviation and airline management is expected to play a key role in SUA’s success.
Aviation in Uruguay: A Fresh Start
Uruguay has lacked a national carrier since the collapse of PLUNA in 2012, leaving the country dependent on foreign airlines for connectivity. The introduction of SUA could revive Uruguay’s presence in regional aviation, boosting connectivity and economic growth.
With the first SUA aircraft set to arrive in early 2025, aviation enthusiasts will soon have a new airline to watch in South America’s evolving airline landscape.