Latvian carrier airBaltic has entered a strategic partnership with SUA Líneas Aéreas, a new Latin American startup regional airline.

Under the agreement, airBaltic will wet lease up to five of its Airbus A220-300 aircraft to SUA starting in October. It will also support the new company with operational set-up, pilot training, knowledge sharing, IT and automation, and sustainability initiatives.

SUA plans to launch operations by the fourth quarter of 2025, connecting cities across Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. The initial routes will aim to reduce travel times and provide direct alternatives for regional passengers who currently face limited or inconvenient options.

SUA’s headquarters and main base of operations will be at the Carrasco International Airport (MVD) in Montevideo, Uruguay.

“Collaborating with SUA Líneas Aéreas represents a unique opportunity to bring airBaltic’s expertise in operating the Airbus A220-300 to a new region,” said Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic. “This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering innovation and improving air connectivity globally. We are looking forward to supporting SUA in their journey to strengthen regional connectivity and deliver exceptional service in Latin America.”

Antonio Rama, CEO of SUA Líneas Aéreas said: “Through this alliance, we will benefit from airBaltic’s expertise in key areas such as fleet management, operational efficiency, and staff training, equipping us with the tools needed to develop a customer-focused operation.

“We are confident that their experience and support will be critical in this early phase of our development.”

PHOTO: airBaltic

(l-r) Laurent Bayer (VP Head of Sales – Airbus Latin America & Caribbean), Antonio Rama and Martin Gauss