LATAM's New Business Class: Sliding Doors and High-Tech Touches - But is it Enough?

LATAM is investing US$360 million to upgrade the business class on their fleet of Boeing 787s with Recaro's R7 suites, which offer direct aisle access for all passengers in a staggered 1-2-1 layout. The upgraded seats will include movable privacy panels and high-tech features like USB-C, wireless charging, HD video screens and Bluetooth audio streaming. LATAM plans to reduce the number of business class seats on their 787-8s from 30 to 20 in order to provide more spacious suites, while maintaining 30 seats in the larger 787-9s. The upgrade program will begin with the 787-8s in the first half of 2025. LATAM's older Boeing 767s and 777s which already have a modern business class layout will not receive these new seats, leaving some to question whether this is due to profitability or strategic reasons. Regardless, LATAM promises their new business class experience will be comfortable and modern, though it remains to be seen if it will truly differentiate them from the competition in satisfying discerning business travelers satisfying discerning business travelers.