Air Canada (AC) and Abra Group have taken a step toward strengthening air connectivity across the Americas after signing a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at developing a long-term commercial partnership. The announcement was made in Rio de Janeiro on 7th June 2026 and outlines plans for broader cooperation between Air Canada and the Latin American aviation group that owns the Avianca and GOL brands. The proposed commercial partnership would focus on enhancing services between Canada and Latin America through a Joint Business Agreement covering selected routes.
In addition, the framework includes expanded codeshare arrangements and revenue-sharing initiatives. Air Canada has identified the region as a key area for growth as it continues to increase capacity into South America and compete for connecting traffic through its Canadian hubs. Any final agreement remains subject to documentation and regulatory approval.
The planned commercial partnership builds upon existing relationships already in place between the airlines. These include current codeshare agreements, Air Canada’s Star Alliance relationship with Avianca, and its longer-standing collaboration with GOL. Under the proposal, the carriers intend to coordinate sales and distribution activities while also aligning airport services, baggage policies and disruption handling procedures. The arrangement would further expand reciprocal benefits across the Aeroplan, LifeMiles and Smiles loyalty programmes, providing additional opportunities for frequent travellers.
The companies also identified potential for closer cargo cooperation as part of the commercial partnership, supporting trade flows throughout the region. Air Canada has recently expanded services to Lima, Santiago and Rio de Janeiro and is planning additional growth in Quito.
“The Canada-South America market is accelerating, and we are investing to capture this momentum,” said Mary-Jane Lorette, vice-president, revenue management, partnerships and international affairs at Air Canada.
Commenting on the agreement, Angus Clarke, chief commercial officer at Abra, said: “This milestone agreement with Air Canada reinforces our ambition to redefine connectivity across the Americas and beyond.” The proposed commercial partnership marks a significant development in the companies’ efforts to expand cooperation and strengthen their presence across the Americas.
