Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación Plans to Launch with Airbus Fleet

Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación (SUA) is setting the stage to introduce a new flag carrier in Uruguay, aiming to enhance the South American country’s connectivity on both regional and global scales. Based out of Montevideo Carrasco, the airline aspires to operate a fleet of up to ten Airbus aircraft within its first three years of operation, signaling ambitious growth plans for the newly established company.

Founder and CEO Antonio Rama, who has a history in the aviation industry dating back to the early 2000s with U Air, shared details of the airline’s vision in a letter to Uruguay’s President Luis Lacalle Pou. The letter outlined SUA’s robust business plan, supported by substantial financial backing, and highlighted the airline’s commitment to significantly improving Uruguay’s air links.

The initial fleet strategy involves deploying six Airbus aircraft in the first 18 months, expanding to ten by the third year. Furthermore, SUA aims to contribute to the aviation industry’s infrastructure by setting up an MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facility and establishing the region’s first Full Flight Simulator Level D, in collaboration with Airbus.

This move comes as Uruguay’s government, represented by transport undersecretary Juan José Olaizola, engages with regional investors to explore the feasibility of a privately owned flag carrier. Uruguay’s aviation market has witnessed several airline exits in the past, including Amaszonas Uruguay, PLUNA, and Alas Uruguay, leaving a gap in the national scheduled passenger service sector.

As the only active carrier, Air Class Líneas Aéreas currently focuses on cargo operations, with Uruguay’s passenger market primarily served by international airlines such as LATAM Airlines and the recent entrance of SKY Airline Perú with fifth-freedom routes.

SUA’s initiative presents a hopeful outlook for Uruguay’s aviation landscape, aiming to restore and expand the country’s air connectivity. With strategic planning and significant investment in aircraft and infrastructure, Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación seeks to position itself as a key player in revitalizing Uruguay’s air transport industry.