Azul to Expand Services in Santa Catarina with New Routes

## Azul to Operate New Routes in Santa Catarina Azul Airlines has announced plans to expand its services in Santa Catarina, Brazil, with new routes to nine destinations in the state. The airline will operate flights from Florianópolis to São Miguel do Oeste, Joaçaba, Caçador, Blumenau, Correia Pinto, Lages, Jaguaruna, Forquilhinha, and Joinville, starting in November. The new routes are part of the Azul Conecta program, which focuses on regional flights using small aircraft. The airline has signed an agreement with the state government to implement the Programa VOA+SC, which aims to increase air connectivity in the state, particularly in cities with limited or no regular air service. ## Details of the New Routes The airline has not yet disclosed the exact schedule for the new routes, but it has stated that it will operate a minimum of two flights per week per route. The airline will use small aircraft with a capacity of up to 19 seats, as specified in the contract. The government of Santa Catarina has set a price range for the new routes, with tickets expected to cost between R$ 315 and R$ 825. The airline will also receive subsidies from the state government, which will be used to offset the costs of operating the new routes. ## Background on the Contract The contract between Azul and the state government was awarded after a bidding process, with the airline winning the contract with an estimated value of R$ 22.5 million in the first year. The contract has a duration of 18 months, with three months dedicated to preparing the airline for the new routes. The government of Santa Catarina had initially considered establishing its own airline or a specialized unit to operate regional flights, but ultimately decided against it due to the complexity and cost of setting up such an operation. ## Conclusion The new routes announced by Azul will provide increased air connectivity in Santa Catarina, benefiting residents and tourists alike. The airline's commitment to operating small aircraft with a capacity of up to 19 seats will also help to address the infrastructure challenges faced by some airports in the state.