LAN Ecuador Announces Approval for Domestic Operations

GUAYAQUIL, Ecuador & QUITO, Ecuador--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LAN Ecuador, a subsidiary of LAN Airlines (NYSE: LFL / IPSA: LAN), announced that on December 22, 2008 the Civil Aviation Authority of Ecuador officially notified the Company of its decision to authorize operations in the domestic passenger market.

LAN Ecuador received authorization to operate the following routes: Guayaquil-Quito-Guayaquil; Guayaquil-Cuenca-Guayaquil; Quito–Cuenca-Quito and Quito/Guayaquil-Galapagos-Guayaquil/Quito.

“This decision represents an important recognition by aviation authorities of the work we have accomplished over our five years of operation in Ecuador, contributing to tourism, connectivity and the economic and social development. LAN Ecuador’s firm commitment is to offer a new and efficient air transport alternative to passengers and cargo clients on domestic routes in Ecuador,” stated Mr. Max Naranjo, General Manager of LAN Ecuador.

LAN Ecuador, an affiliate member of the oneworld alliance, expects to initiate flights in the domestic market at the end of March 2009, operating modern A320 family aircraft, which include the most advanced technology in the industry to provide the best travel experience to domestic customers. “We hope to provide an excellent service with the highest safety standards and a commitment to the preservation of the environment,” added Mr. Naranjo.

In this way, the Company reaffirms its commitment with Ecuador, the development of air transport and tourism, generating employment and investment for the economic and social development of the country.

About LAN

LAN Airlines is one of the leading passenger airlines in Latin America. The company serves more than 60 destinations around the world through an extensive network that offers full connectivity within Latin America while also linking the region with North America, Europe and the South Pacific, as well as 58 additional international destinations through its various codeshare agreements. LAN Airlines and its affiliates have a leading position in their respective domestic markets of Chile and Peru as well as an important presence in the Argentinean domestic market.

Currently, LAN Airlines operates one of the most modern fleets in the world, with 76 passenger aircraft and its cargo affiliate, LAN CARGO, operates 9 dedicated freighters. The company recently completed its short haul fleet renovation process by acquiring new aircraft from the Airbus A320 family, enabling LAN to improve its efficiency and to reduce significantly its CO2 emissions. The fleet renovation is part of the company’s commitment to the protection of the environment.

LAN is one of the few Investment Grade airlines in the world (BBB). The company’s world class quality standards enabled its membership in oneworld™, the global alliance that encompasses the best airlines in the world. For more information please visit www.lan.com or www.oneworldalliance.com.