American Airlines Gets Green Light For $100M Stake In Brazil's Azul

Brazil’s antitrust authority CADE has cleared American Airlines to invest up to $100 million in Azul Linhas Aéreas as the U.S. carrier pursues a minority stake during Azul’s restructuring. The Fort Worth-based airline will take an 8.66% equity position in Azul with no conditions attached. CADE said it expects the planned commercial cooperation—including expanded codeshare flights, access to airport lounges, and reciprocal frequent-flyer benefits—to complement Azul’s network and avoid harming competition. The deal also lets American appoint one board member and an additional representative to Azul’s strategic committees. Approval may be appealed, but absent concerns it becomes final.