Varig, the former leading Brazilian airline, which is now a subsidiary of Gol Linhas Aéreas, has signed an Interline Traffic Agreement with U.S.-based American Airlines. Through this partnership, passengers of both airlines can purchase tickets to all destinations, both domestic and international, served by Varig and American Airlines.
The agreement allows the sale of point to point tickets, for Varig's domestic flights in conjunction with American Airlines' international destinations through all sales channels (call centers, ticket offices and travel agents), with the exception of Varig's website.
For added convenience, luggage will be checked through to passengers' final destination on connecting international flights. The partnership increases Varig's feeder network by providing additional options for passengers traveling with American Airlines.
American Airlines currently operates direct flights between Brazil and three destinations in the United States – Miami, Dallas and New York – departing from São Paulo's Guarulhos International Airport, and Rio de Janeiro's Tom Jobim-Galeão International.
Varig's customers will now have access to American Airlines' broad route network, including more than 250 destinations in over 40 countries.
Varig is currently modernizing its domestic fleet; by the end of the year it will be composed exclusively of modern Boeing 737-700 and 737-800 Next Generation aircraft. The Company serves 14 domestic destinations and four international, all in South America.
Passengers traveling under the SMILES frequent flier program will only be able accumulate miles on flights operated by Varig.
Gol, the parent company of Varig Linhas Aéreas S.A., offers over 640 daily flights to 56 destinations connecting the most important cities in Brazil as well as the main destinations in South America. Varig offers over 120 daily flights to 14 destinations in Brazil.
