LATAM Airlines Group is making a major investment in its fleet to elevate the onboard experience for passengers. Starting in September, the company will begin a renovation process for 24 of its Boeing 787 aircraft, totaling a hefty $360 million investment. This ambitious project involves completely revamping the cabin interiors with new seats, cutting-edge entertainment systems, and a sleek, modern design.
The renovation highlights the Premium Business cabin with the introduction of the innovative Recaro R7 seat, a first for South American airlines. These seats offer an unparalleled level of privacy and comfort thanks to the addition of doors, creating a personal sanctuary within the cabin. Passengers in Economy class will also enjoy a complete makeover with ergonomically designed seats that provide greater space and comfort. Economy Plus seats, known for offering extra legroom and recline, are also being enhanced with footrests and designated luggage space.
“Our new cabins, designed with the unique essence of the LATAM Group and meticulous attention to detail, are aimed at providing a world-class travel experience,” says Paulo Miranda, VP of Clients for the LATAM Group. “The new Premium Business seats represent a significant advancement, blending comfort, privacy, and elegance. These renovations position LATAM as an industry leader, offering our passengers an unprecedented level of comfort and an exclusive flight experience.”
The airline is prioritizing sustainability with the use of recycled leather for upholstery in both Premium Business and Economy classes. This eco-conscious material, already utilized in most of LATAM’s narrow-body aircraft, significantly reduces water consumption during production compared to traditional leather. According to data from Gen Phoenix, the manufacturer, the use of this recycled material has prevented 21 tons of waste from ending up in landfills.
Economy class passengers will be able to connect to the onboard entertainment system via Bluetooth, allowing them to enjoy a comprehensive content library using their own headphones. This library boasts over 240 movies, 740 television show episodes, 1,500 music tracks, and exclusive content from streaming giants like Max, Paramount+, and Disney+. The entertainment experience is further enhanced by renovated 12-inch high-definition screens featuring touch technology.
These upgraded Boeing 787s will also feature Panasonic’s ArcTM interactive 3D map, providing passengers with detailed information about their destinations from the air. This innovative feature allows travelers to explore iconic landmarks and destinations before they even land.
“Our close collaboration with the LATAM Group has resulted in a truly unique seat for their Business Class passengers,” says Dr. Mark Hiller, CEO of RECARO Aircraft Seating and RECARO Holding. “The R7 model offers premium comfort, elevates privacy to a new level, and will be a standout addition to their fleet and the South American market.”
The renovation project encompasses 24 aircraft – 10 Boeing 787-8s, which operate on international and domestic routes in Chile, and 14 Boeing 787-9s, serving international and domestic routes in Chile, Brazil, and Peru. The first aircraft to receive the retrofit, a Boeing 787-8, will begin flying in the first half of 2025. The entire renovation process, taking place at maintenance bases in São Carlos, Brazil, and Santiago, Chile, is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026. Each retrofit takes between two and four months, depending on the extent of the improvements.
LATAM’s commitment to this extensive renovation project underscores its dedication to providing passengers with a superior travel experience while incorporating environmentally responsible practices. The upgrades are poised to make LATAM a leading force in the airline industry, offering passengers a combination of luxury, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.
