AA Applies for More Brazil Flights

American Airlines has filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for the right to use three weekly regional Brazil frequencies that Delta Air Lines is relinquishing from September 7, 2010.

Will Ris, American's senior vice president, government affairs, said: "If we are granted the use of these soon-to-be-relinquished frequencies then we could begin flying non-stop between Miami and Brasilia on November 18 as scheduled, and between Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Rio de Janiero (GIG) as well."

"We previously applied to DOT for three frequencies to serve Rio from DFW, our largest hub, but those frequencies are also being sought by another carrier and a selection proceeding could take months. By using the regional frequencies on our new Brasilia route, we can reassign Rio-eligible frequencies to the DFW-Rio route. All in all, we believe this use of slots in the Brazil marketplace will ensure that DOT provides for the greatest public benefit.

"Our new service from Miami to Brasilia will be the first-ever by a U.S. carrier. Miami is American's largest U.S. gateway to Brazil and to all of South America".

From Miami to Brasilia, American will fly 757 aircraft.

American will also fly daily between New York (JFK) and Rio de Janeiro on November 18, with 767-300s.

The carrier recently entered into a codeshare alliance with Gol, Brazil's largest carrier, which will offer service beyond both Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia to other cities in Brazil.