Abra Group, the parent company of Brazilian airline Gol, is evaluating the possibility of adding Embraer jets to its fleet as part of a broader modernization and expansion plan across its subsidiaries in Latin America, according to Folha de S.Paulo,
During an aviation industry event held in Lima, Gol’s CEO, Celso Ferrer, told Folha that the group is “looking at other types of aircraft, including Embraer models, Airbus A220s, and A330s.” However, he emphasized that any final decision will be made “at the right time” to avoid fleet overcapacity.
Fleet diversification under discussion
Currently, Gol operates exclusively with Boeing aircraft — including the 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8, and 737-800 BCF models — used for routes across Brazil, South America, North America, and the Caribbean. Within the Abra Group, which also controls Avianca, plans are already in motion to expand the fleet with up to seven A330neo and 50 additional A320neo aircraft from Airbus, with deliveries beginning at the end of 2025.
If confirmed, the potential inclusion of Embraer jets would mark Gol’s first move toward a more diversified fleet. This follows similar strategies by regional competitors: in September, LATAM Airlines announced an agreement to purchase up to 74 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, while Azul already operates a fleet of Brazilian-made jets.
Post-bankruptcy focus and market outlook
The comments come as Abra finalizes the post–Chapter 11 restructuring process of Gol, which emerged from bankruptcy earlier this year. Ferrer told Folha that the group is now focused on stabilizing operations and preparing for a future IPO. “The priority of Abra is for Gol to emerge well from Chapter 11. We are growing and strengthening our position,” he said.
Regarding ticket prices, Ferrer noted that Brazil’s aviation market is benefiting from a more stable exchange rate and lower fuel costs. He said the recent decline in airfares — a 7% drop over the past year, according to Brazil’s IBGE data — reflects a natural market adjustment rather than external pressure.
Still according to Folha, the potential partnership between Abra and Embraer would reinforce Brazil’s role as a key player in regional aviation manufacturing while highlighting the growing competitiveness of Latin American carriers in renewing and diversifying their fleets