The Oldest Commercial Aircraft Still Operating in Latin America and the Caribbean
Despite technological advancements and the introduction of more efficient aircraft, some airlines in Latin America and the Caribbean continue to operate planes that are over half a century old. Whether due to the robustness of their design, proper maintenance, or a lack of immediate replacements, these aircraft still play a crucial role in the region’s air transport industry.
Below is a list of the 30 oldest commercial aircraft still in service with Latin American passenger airlines. As you’ll notice, one model stands out, highlighting its exceptional build quality and adaptability to the region's operational conditions.
There are also several common characteristics among these aircraft. Most operate for small regional airlines in Central America and the Caribbean—many of them relatively unknown. Of the 30 planes listed, 29 are turboprops, with the sole exception being a venerable Boeing 737-200, registration YV3471, operated by Venezolana.
Outside the central region of the Americas, the ranking includes only four Twin Otters from LADE and one from TAPSA (both in Argentina), as well as an Embraer EMB-110 from Aerotaxi Abaeté in Brazil.
This list is based on data compiled by Aviacionline through Cirium Fleet Analyzer and is subject to change, as it reflects aircraft currently in service (some temporarily stored aircraft may not be included).
Information collected by Aviacionline through Cirium Fleet Analyzer
The Oldest Jets in Operation
When considering only jet aircraft, the list shows a greater variety of airlines. However, one model still dominates, reflecting an era when Boeing reigned supreme in the Latin American market for this segment.
Unsurprisingly, the Boeing 737 Classic family—comprising the 737-200, 737-300, 737-400, and 737-500—takes the lead. The second most common jet type is the MD series, with eight aircraft in the ranking. The only European-built aircraft on the list is an Airbus A340-200 operated by Conviasa. Additionally, a CRJ-100 from Honduras-based Aerolíneas Sosa appears as the sole Bombardier (now Mitsubishi) model.
Interestingly, one country accounts for 20 of the 30 oldest commercial aircraft still in operation: Venezuela.
Information collected by Aviacionline through Cirium Fleet Analyzer
A Reflection of Regional Aviation Trends
Both rankings highlight key trends in Latin American aviation. Turboprops remain essential for connectivity in remote regions, while older jets are more prevalent among Venezuelan airlines, where economic restrictions have hindered fleet renewal. Over time, many of these aircraft will likely be replaced, but for now, they continue to serve their purpose—defying industry trends and proving that, with proper maintenance, longevity in commercial aviation is more than possible.
Bonus: The 10 Newest Aircraft in Latin America
To contrast with the region’s oldest aircraft, here are the 10 newest additions to Latin American and Caribbean airline fleets:
- Boeing 737 MAX 8 (XA-SRJ) – Delivered to Aeroméxico on February 21.
- Airbus A320neo (XA-VUP) – Delivered to Volaris on February 6.
- Airbus A321neo (XA-VUQ) – Delivered to Volaris on February 6.
- Boeing 737 MAX 9 (XA-SRK) – Delivered to Aeroméxico on February 6.
- Boeing 737 MAX 9 (N469AM) – Delivered to Aeroméxico on February 2.
- Boeing 737 MAX 8 (PS-GPQ) – Delivered to GOL on January 16.
- Boeing 737 MAX 8 (N188AM) – Delivered to Aeroméxico on January 13.
- Boeing 737 MAX 8 (N285AM) – Delivered to Aeroméxico on January 13.
- Airbus A320neo (PR-XBU) – Delivered to LATAM Brasil on December 30, 2024.
- Airbus A320neo (CC-DBO) – Delivered to SKY Airline on December 30, 2024.
This contrast between the oldest and newest aircraft underscores the dynamic nature of Latin America's aviation sector, where a mix of legacy and modern fleets continues to shape the region's air travel landscape.
AUTOR
Contando la aviación desde marzo del año 2000. Fundador y Managing Editor de Aviacionline.
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