Avianca Brazil to slow down expansion in 2013; to benefit from TAP acquisition and Star membership

Avianca Brazil plans to slow down expansion in 2013, taking a hiatus following a growth spurt which saw the carrier more than double in size in less than two years. Avianca Brazil's outlook remains bright despite Brazil's challenging market, which has led the country's two largest carriers to cut domestic capacity, as it is poised to benefit from anticipated membership in the Star Alliance and the possible acquisition of TAP Portugal by its parent company.

Avianca Brazil is 100% owned by Brazilian investment firm Synergy Group, which is also the largest shareholder in Avianca-TACA Holding, the parent of several carriers in other Latin America countries including four members of the Star Alliance. Synergy is also the only remaining bidder in the sale of Star member TAP Portugal, which has an extensive network in Brazil that would add significant value to Avianca Brazil's all-domestic network.