LAN AIRLINES INAUGURATES OPERATIONS TO TORONTO.
July 29, 2008
LAN Airlines is adding yet another destination to its international network with the startup of
operations to Toronto, Canada. Beginning next September 2, five weekly flights will be offered by
the airline on the Santiago-New York-Toronto route. This new destination also increased oneworld
alliance’s network in NorthAmerica.
The service is slated to depart Santiago every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and
Sunday, and return from Toronto every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. With the
launch of this route LAN is providing a new and efficient alternative for passengers traveling on
business or for pleasure between South America and the United States or Canada.
“We’re incorporating a new North American destination to the range of points the company
currently serves in the United States,” stated Armando Valdivieso, CEO for LAN’s passenger
division. “People needing to travel to and from Canada will now have an efficient and comfortable
option for flights to that part of the world. And we’re also offering a new cargo alternative to
our customers in the import and export sectors,” he added.
LAN will operate the Toronto route using modern Boeing 767-300 aircraft configured with the
new Premium Business class that brings together the best of First and Executive classes. Among its
many benefits are full-flat 180-degree reclining seats for sleeping comfortably in a totally
horizontal position, a feature only a select group of airlines provide. Passengers are thus assured
a refreshing rest in maximum privacy and comfort.
On the long-haul 767-300s that are already fitted out with Premium Business, the range of
in-flight programming positions LAN as one of the world’s best airlines for variety of
entertainment. The on-demand audio and video system with individual screens for all seats lets
passengers choose from more than 85 options. In addition to 32 movies that run the gamut from
first-run releases to perennial favorites, the system offers 55 channels of TV series and
documentaries, which during 2008 includes the entire first season of Prison Break as well as 6
episodes of Dr. House.
As for music, 450 CD’s cover all possible styles to suit every preference, from rock to
classical. Ten new CD’s are added each month, and there’s an option to create your own play list.
Also available are 14 individual video games and two multiplayer ones (chess and battleship) so
passengers can enjoy this feature with their seatmates. All of these innovations will be
implemented on the airline’s entire lineup of Boeing 767s during the second-half of 2008.
These new features complement the top-notch personalized service that LAN is constantly
working to improve so that Premium Business will take its place as one of the best executive
classes in the world.
This revamping of the fleet of 767-300s will also bring enhancements to our Economy class,
making it a more pleasurable travel option for LAN’s customers. New seats incorporate bigger
individual video monitors with high resolution widescreen displays offering the same entertainment
content as in Premium Business. Passengers can choose easily and comfortably among the wide variety
of programming alternatives provided by the on-demand audio and video system using the touchscreen
function or the remote control.
The new seats also have greater reclining capacity, a cushion that slides forward for
increased comfort and convenience, an adjustable headrest and a cup holder. As well as redesigned
cabin interiors, the upgrade includes new dishware, seat covers and other items such as blankets
and pillows. “We have a commitment to each one of our passengers,” explained Valdivieso. “Our
goal is to attend to our customers with a smile and a permanent readiness to serve in a friendly
and welcoming atmosphere, always maintaining the same high standard of excellence that sets us
apart and ensures every flight with us is the best travel experience.”
To date, 20 of LAN’s 767-300s already offer Premium Business and the redesigned Economy
class, mainly on routes within South America and to Mexico and the United States.
These initiatives represent an investment of approximately US$ 100 million in service
improvements for the benefit of LAN’s customers. The project is revolutionizing the concept of
flying and positions the company at the forefront of the industry, ensuring the airline delivers a
better product with the highest international standards of quality and excellence.
Media Contact:
Lorena Monsalves
Telephone: +56 2 565 3975
Email: Lorena.monsalves@lan.com
Fax: +56 2 565 8810.
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