SKY Airline Eyes A321XLR for Argentina–US Routes, Reveals New Uniforms with Sneakers
CEO José Ignacio Dougnac outlines expansion goals, praises Argentina’s aviation policy shift, and highlights fleet evolution and crew comfort.
During the unveiling of SKY Airline’s new uniforms, Aviacionline spoke with CEO José Ignacio Dougnac, who shared key insights into the Argentine market and the airline's plans involving the Airbus A321XLR, considered the new rising star in global aviation.
Dougnac confirmed SKY’s interest in expanding its international network from Argentina, with the arrival of the Airbus A321XLR playing a pivotal role. The aircraft would allow direct routes such as Buenos Aires–Miami. However, entering Argentina’s domestic market, currently dominated by Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi, and JetSMART, is not a short-term priority for the company.
Dougnac described the Argentine market as “very interesting for us” and welcomed the country’s new aviation policies. He praised the opening of the skies and the potential to operate at more airports, calling it "great news" that opens many development opportunities. SKY, which has operated in Argentina since 2010, plans to explore these new conditions to "continue adding new destinations in the future."
The A321XLR is the centerpiece of this potential expansion. Dougnac explained that the aircraft "can fly more than nine hours nonstop," enabling over 50 new route possibilities for the airline.
One of the most appealing opportunities enabled by the A321XLR is a direct flight between Buenos Aires and Miami. Dougnac confirmed that the aircraft "can fly, in principle, directly between Buenos Aires and Miami." However, he acknowledged its limitations, noting that "it cannot fly nonstop between Santiago and New York" due to range constraints.
To reach destinations like New York, SKY would need to adjust its strategy. “If we wanted to fly to New York, it would have to be from Lima or Medellín,” he said. He also confirmed that the A321XLRs will have multiple bases, with Santiago serving southern U.S. routes, and Lima enabling northern operations, including New York.
Among the routes under evaluation is Mataveri Airport on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Currently served only by LATAM, the destination’s remote Pacific location—3,700 km from mainland Chile—could benefit from an aircraft like the A321XLR. Its significantly lower operating cost compared to widebodies could improve service affordability and reduce logistical dependence.
Asked about entering the Argentine domestic market, Dougnac was clear: “At the moment, we have other priority projects we plan to pursue,” leaving the door open for future moves but confirming no immediate plans.
Beyond Sneakers: SKY Unveils New Crew Uniforms
The statements were made during an event at the Airbus Training Center in Chile, where SKY unveiled its new uniforms, to be adopted by flight and cabin crews starting in July. The updated attire is the result of a collaborative design process with crew and introduces a bold innovation: sneakers—a trend gaining traction in the airline industry.
The uniform development was guided by a teamwork philosophy. SKY organized working groups with representatives from Chilean and Peruvian crew , aiming to “capture the voice of those who wear the uniform every day.” The result balances both aesthetic appeal and functional comfort, ensuring staff can perform at their best.
Identity and Comfort Onboard
The new uniform embodies SKY’s #ActitudSKY—a brand ethos focused on being approachable, solution-driven, and confident. The headline innovation is the adoption of sneakers, prioritizing crew comfort. The design was a t effort between management and crew from both Chile and Peru.
The airline stated that this new image reflects its corporate culture and redefines traditional standards. SKY becomes the first airline in Chile and Peru to make sneakers part of its official crew attire.
Dougnac expressed his enthusiasm for the update, highlighting the comfort factor: “Sneakers are a super distinguishing element. I’m wearing them today, and they’re incredibly comfortable.” The aim, he added, is to ensure crew can work “much more effectively” thanks to the flexible and ergonomic design of the uniform.
AUTOR
Desde 2017, haciendo periodismo aeronáutico. Award-Winning Journalist: Ganador de la edición 2023 de "Periodismo de Altura", otorgado por ALTA. Facts don't care about your feelings.
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