Delta-LATAM get DOT approval to connect the Americas

Delta Air Lines and the LATAM Group will work closely to create partnership between the United States/Canada and South America (Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay), and connect the Americas with access to more than 300 destinations after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) granted final approval to their joint venture.

"Once implemented, the approval enables Delta and LATAM Airlines Group, LATAM Airlines Brasil, LATAM Airlines Colombia, LATAM Airlines Peru and LATAM Airlines Paraguay to begin the work of unlocking new customer and cargo benefits including enhanced service and expanded route offerings that will add to the codeshare routes and reciprocal loyalty benefits already in place," says a release from Delta.

"Delta's partnership with LATAM will help grow the market between North and South America and provide significant and much-needed benefits for customers, and we applaud the DOT for this final approval," says Ed Bastian, Chief Executive Officer, Delta Air Lines. "Now, we'll get to work with LATAM to transform the travel experience for our collective customers and create new opportunities for our employees."

Roberto Alvo, CEO, LATAM Airlines Group, adds: "The approval by the DOT will give rise to the start of work with Delta to deliver more and better benefits to LATAM and Delta customers such as faster connections, and the joint accrual of miles in frequent flyer programs, among many others. I am sure that, over time, we will be able to offer the best connections, while incorporating a sustainable view of the future."