Azul: Creating Fliers Out of Ordinary Bus Riders

David Neeleman founded Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras in 2008. Just two years after it launched its first flight, this Brazilian airline company is servicing 8% of Brazil’s domestic market numbering to about 4 million passengers.

The idea was to establish a low-cost airline company which would cater to the transportation needs of the growing middle class populace in Brazil. They offer a quick alternative to buses which sprawl the entire nation. With Azul, a 34-hour trip can be cut short to 2 hours with almost the same cost to the traveler.

About 25% to 30% of the fares are the same or even less than bus fares. For example, when one travels from Belém to São Paulo, bus ride would take the distance in 51 hours at 428 reais (conversion equivalent to $254). When Azul flight is taken, the travel would only cost 199 reais (conversion equivalent to $118) in 5 hours and 52 minutes. That’s practical.

Azul targets to cover as many as 50 cities, especially those that do not have air service by now. The airline company does not only provide cheap flights across Brazil, they also help first time fliers make a meaningful first time flight.