Brazilian airline Azul has emerged from bankruptcy protection after reducing its debt burden by $2.5 billion.
Azul officials made the announcement Wednesday morning. The carrier, one of the largest in Brazil, filed for bankruptcy in May 2025, citing rising costs and debt accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of its restructuring, Azul reduced its debt and lease liabilities and secured $850 million in new equity investments. That amount includes $100 million each from United and American Airlines.
The carrier has continued to operate flights, with about 800 scheduled per day.
“This is a defining milestone for Azul,” CEO John Rodgerson said in a news release. “In just under nine months, we completed a comprehensive restructuring that has materially strengthened our balance sheet and positioned Azul for long-term stability. We are emerging from Chapter 11 with the support of some of the most respected financial and strategic partners in global aviation.”
Azul is headquartered near São Paulo and serves dozens of destinations within Brazil. It also offers medium- and long-haul service to Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Curaçao, Western Europe, and the U.S., specifically Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
