Originally Posted by
GetSetJetSet
I have heard nothing but horrible things about S.American carriers and their safety standards / crew training, so I am naturally a bit worried about intra-continental air travel.
However, I am planning a trip that in all likelihood will require a BA-Rio flight and perhaps a Rio-Florianopolis flight (w/ return). Of the carriers who fly these routes, who provides the best (and safest) product?
If you have a chance, also please opine on who is best on Montevideo to Rio should that eventuality come to pass.
Thanks!
South American carriers safety standards are the same as European or US carriers. In terms of service they are better.
For BA-Rio I would use TAM, GOL or AR all of which fly nonstop. The best is always to selected nonstop option. As mentioned above, 1-stop option is available with Pluna which is a good carrier.
For Rio-FLN-Rio I would fly AZUL (this is a new airline in Brazil with excellent service). If you fly AZUL you will depart from central airport in Rio (SDU) but will need to connect in VCP (Campinas). For nonstop options fly TAM and GOL both are very good with TAM offering better onboard product. TAM operates in GIG T2 and GOL in GIG T1, with T2 being newer and more comfortable.
Rgs,