LATAM was formed out of the combination of LAN Chile & TAM in Brazil, and we’re now seeing the new company well balanced and its offerings streamlined.  You’ll find LATAM with hubs in Bogata, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Santiago Chile.   The carrier also offers some point-to-point flying out of Costa Rica & Ecuador.    For the most part, all long-haul flights are operated with Boeing 777 or 787 aircraft, which we feature, and shorthaul are all Airbus A319/A320/A321 flights with a much different service model.   Be sure to avoid the Airbus A320 on longer flights – the seat pitch is a numbing 28″ on some planes (versus 31 to 32″ on the 777s and 787s).

On the longhaul, we liked the seatback entertainment – which included South Park of all things, and a language-learning module for a variety of dialects.   This was a nice touch to brush up on our Brazilian portuguese!    The seats were quite comfortable, had moveable armrests, adjustable meal tray with separate cup holder, and plenty of spots to charge your items (standard power under the seats, USB on the TV).  Legrom was OK, as was seat width – unfortunately most airlines are using the 17″ standard 737 seat on on longhaul planes now, instead of 18 – 19″ that we see on most Airbus widebodies, so it can feel a bit cramped.  But this isn’t just limited to LATAM – every US carrier does the same.

As mentioned the food was quite tasty and they had even offered our section extras if people were hungry.   The wine options were a bit limited & served you in a paper cup, however the FAs would also pour you additional if you wanted.  LATAM did not have liquor in economy, even for sale.