WILLEMSTAD – Brazilian airline Azul has filed for bankruptcy protection under U.S. law, citing financial challenges rooted in the COVID-19 pandemic and failed restructuring efforts. The move raises concerns about the future of Azul’s planned expansions, including its growing presence in Curaçao’s tourism sector. 

Azul’s filing comes at a sensitive time for the island. Since 2023, the airline has operated direct flights between Belo Horizonte and Curaçao, beginning with one weekly flight, which was later doubled. According to previous announcements by the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), the frequency was expected to increase to four flights per week by December 2024. In addition, a new route from Curaçao to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, had been announced. 

The CTB had hailed Azul’s expansion as a key boost to Curaçao’s international air connectivity, offering stronger ties to both South and North America. In a high-profile promotional campaign coordinated with the Ministry of Economic Development, Azul showcased the island by adorning an Airbus A320neo with an image of Willemstad’s iconic Handelskade. The aircraft, serving over fifty airports across Brazil, was intended to increase visibility and attract Brazilian tourists to the island. 

However, Azul’s financial instability now casts doubt on the sustainability of this growth. While current routes remain operational, it is unclear whether the planned increases in frequency – and the new Fort Lauderdale service – will be implemented as scheduled. 

Azul is Brazil’s largest airline in terms of destinations served and flight frequency. It currently operates flights to Curaçao on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. As of now, the Curaçao Tourist Board has not issued a public statement regarding the potential implications of Azul’s financial situation.