Experience seamless travel as LATAM Airlines bridges Brazil and Portugal with direct flights, revolutionizing connectivity and bringing the two nations closer than ever.

LATAM Airlines Brazil has announced its first direct flight connecting the Northeast of Brazil to Europe in over a decade. Starting April 7, 2025, LATAM will operate the Fortaleza-Lisbon route, marking a significant milestone for Ceará and its international travel network. The flights will continue through October 20, 2025, providing a strategic link between Brazil and Portugal during the peak travel season. This initiative underscores LATAM’s commitment to expanding its presence in the region and fostering economic and tourism development in Ceará.

Announcement and Strategic Collaboration with the Government of Ceará

The announcement was made during a meeting at the Palácio da Abolição in Fortaleza on February 7, 2025. Key stakeholders present included Elmano de Freitas, the Governor of Ceará; Eduardo Bismarck, the state’s Secretary of Tourism; and Eduardo Macedo, Head of Public Affairs for LATAM Brazil. This meeting symbolized a collaborative effort to enhance Ceará’s international connectivity and boost tourism and business opportunities in the state.

The new Fortaleza-Lisbon route is more than just a travel connection; it is a statement of Ceará’s strategic importance in LATAM’s network. Discussions during the meeting also highlighted LATAM’s future investment opportunities in Ceará, reinforcing the airline’s dedication to regional growth.

Route Details: Schedule and Aircraft Information

The Fortaleza-Lisbon route will operate once a week, offering passengers a direct and convenient travel option between Northeast Brazil and Europe. The flights will be carried out on Boeing 787 aircraft, renowned for their comfort and modern technology. With a capacity for 300 passengers, the aircraft is divided into three classes: Premium Business (30 seats), Economy+ (57 seats), and Economy (213 seats).

Here’s the detailed schedule:

• Outbound Flight (Fortaleza to Lisbon):
  • Departure: Mondays at 6:15 AM (local time, Fortaleza)
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes
  • Arrival: Lisbon, Portugal
• Inbound Flight (Lisbon to Fortaleza):
  • Departure: Mondays at 6:30 PM (local time, Lisbon)
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes
  • Arrival: Fortaleza, Brazil

The timing of the flights ensures smooth connections for travelers heading to or returning from Europe. This route is expected to attract not only leisure travelers but also business passengers, given the strong economic and cultural ties between Brazil and Portugal.

LATAM’s Growing Presence at Fortaleza Airport

LATAM Airlines has solidified its position as the leading operator at Fortaleza-Pinto Martins International Airport (CE). Currently, the airline operates around 200 flights per week at the airport, connecting Fortaleza to key domestic and international destinations. In addition to the newly announced Fortaleza-Lisbon route, LATAM operates other prominent routes from Fortaleza, including:

• Fortaleza-Miami (2 weekly flights)
• Fortaleza-Santiago (1 weekly flight, inaugurated in 2024)

LATAM also provides domestic connections to key destinations such as Juazeiro do Norte and Jericoacoara, with 10 flights per week for each route originating from São Paulo-Guarulhos. The Fortaleza-Lisbon route will further enhance the airline’s already extensive network and strengthen Fortaleza’s role as a regional aviation hub.

Economic and Tourism Impact of the Fortaleza-Lisbon Route

The introduction of the Fortaleza-Lisbon route represents a significant opportunity for both Ceará and Portugal. For Ceará, it opens doors to increased international tourism, enabling the state to showcase its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities to European travelers. The route also strengthens trade and investment ties between Ceará and Europe, positioning Fortaleza as a gateway for business opportunities.

Collaboration Between LATAM and the Government of Ceará

The success of this new route is a result of close collaboration between LATAM Airlines Brazil and the Government of Ceará. Both parties share a vision of transforming Fortaleza into a key international gateway in Brazil. The government’s proactive role in promoting tourism and investment in the state aligns seamlessly with LATAM’s strategy of expanding its international operations.

The Role of the Boeing 787 in Enhancing Passenger Experience

LATAM’s choice of the Boeing 787 for the Fortaleza-Lisbon route is strategic. Known for its state-of-the-art technology, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort, the 787 offers an exceptional travel experience. Passengers in Premium Business will enjoy lie-flat seats and gourmet dining options, while Economy+ provides extra legroom and enhanced amenities. Economy passengers can expect spacious seating and excellent in-flight entertainment.

The 787’s advanced features also reduce noise and improve cabin air quality, making it an ideal choice for long-haul flights. This aligns with LATAM’s commitment to delivering a high-quality travel experience for its customers.

LATAM’s Investment Plans in Ceará: Looking Ahead

The meeting at the Palácio da Abolição also served as a platform to discuss LATAM’s broader investment plans in Ceará. The airline has expressed a strong interest in exploring additional opportunities to expand its presence in the state. These investments could include the introduction of new routes, increased flight frequencies, and enhanced infrastructure at Fortaleza airport.

A Historical Perspective: LATAM’s Last Northeast-Europe Flight

The Fortaleza-Lisbon route marks LATAM’s return to direct Northeast-Europe operations after a 14-year hiatus. The last time LATAM operated such a route was in 2009. This long-awaited connection highlights the growing demand for international travel from Northeast Brazil and LATAM’s ability to meet this demand.

The decision to reintroduce this route reflects the region’s rising prominence as a travel and business destination. It also aligns with LATAM’s broader strategy of enhancing its international network and connecting Latin America to key global markets.

Strengthening Portugal-Brazil Relations

The Fortaleza-Lisbon route is a testament to the strong historical, cultural, and economic ties between Brazil and Portugal. These two nations share centuries of history, and this new connection serves as a bridge that brings them even closer. Portuguese travelers will have easier access to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ceará, while Brazilians will enjoy seamless travel to Portugal and the rest of Europe.

The launch of LATAM Airlines Brazil’s Fortaleza-Lisbon route is a major milestone for Ceará and the Northeast region. It not only enhances international connectivity but also fosters tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. With state-of-the-art aircraft, strategic scheduling, and strong government collaboration, the route is poised to succeed and bring significant benefits to both Brazil and Portugal.

As LATAM continues to invest in Ceará, this new route represents just the beginning of a promising future for the region’s aviation and tourism industries. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, the Fortaleza-Lisbon route offers an unparalleled connection between Northeast Brazil and Europe.

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