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Azul S.A. (B3:AZUL4; NYSE:AZUL), the largest airline in Brazil by number of flight departures and cities served, announced today a comprehensive restructuring plan supported by key stakeholders, including creditors, aircraft lessor AerCap, and strategic partners United Airlines and American Airlines (NASDAQ:AAL). The plan, which is part of a pre-arranged Chapter 11 filing in the United States, aims to transform the company’s capital structure by significantly reducing debt and improving cash flow.
The restructuring support agreements (RSAs) involve approximately $1.6 billion in debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing, the elimination of over $2.0 billion of debt, and the possibility of up to $950 million in equity investments upon Azul’s emergence from the process. The DIP financing will provide Azul with about $670 million of new capital to maintain operations during the restructuring.
John Rodgerson, Azul’s CEO, emphasized that the agreements represent a strategic move to optimize the airline’s capital structure, which has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, macroeconomic challenges, and aviation supply chain issues. The restructuring process is expected to position Azul as a resilient industry leader.
United Airlines and American Airlines have expressed their support for Azul’s restructuring, committing to further equity investments subject to certain conditions. Both airlines highlighted the strategic value of their partnerships with Azul, citing customer service and network connectivity as key factors.
Azul has assured that its operations and sales will continue as usual, with all tickets, loyalty points, and customer benefits being honored. The Chapter 11 process will be conducted under the legal framework of the United States, providing transparency and agility to the restructuring. Azul plans to emerge with a more sustainable business model and capital structure.
The airline has discontinued its 2025 financial guidance due to the Chapter 11 filing. Azul has committed to keeping shareholders, customers, and the market informed throughout the restructuring process.
This news is based on a press release statement.
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