Avianca Brazil files for bankruptcy protection

Brazil’s fourth-largest airline, Avianca Brasil, has filed for bankruptcy protection – similar to Chapter 11 in the United States – in the face of lawsuits from leasing companies seeking the return of their aircraft for non-payment of dues. The airline said that some 30% of its fleet was being requested back, which would threaten its ability to operate. Avianca Brasil has sought the court’s permission to retain the aircraft to enable it to keep flying while it restructures its finances and lease arrangements. The airline also highlighted the concern that Brazil’s aviation regulator, ANAC, could force it to stop issuing