Two weeks ago at the 2013 GBTA Conference, I had the privilege of meeting with a few members of LATAM Airlines Group to learn what is new with the airline one year after the merger of LAN and TAM. While the airlines are still branded separately, the united company is making great strides in fully integrating their systems by 2016. 

As the second-largest airline with routes from the United States to South America (American Airlines holds the number one position) and the largest route network within the region, the airline is eager to share with U.S. business travelers why they are a great choice when flying to and within the region. Their fleet is one of the youngest in the sky, including Boeing 787s, 777s, 767s and plans for Airbus A350s.

Of course, at a trade show one would think this is all talk and glossy visuals. Business travelers know it is in the experience that an airline can win their loyalty. For this reason, LATAM had on display its new fully flat 787 premium business-class seat. Attendees had the opportunity to operate the seat and simulate the experience of flying LAN’s 787, currently running non-stop from Los Angeles (LAX) to Santiago, Chile (SCL). The spacious seat configuration, large viewing screen and ample storage space was enough to make any luxury business traveler eager for this experience.

— Danielle Hudena, executive vice president