Cash-strapped Brazilian carrier Avianca Brasil has cancelled more than 1,000 flights this week after being forced to return 18 more aircraft to lessors.
Avianca refused to disclose exactly how many remaining aircraft it has, but is thought to be just seven compared with 35 last month.
At the beginning of April the airline scrapped several long-haul routes from Sao Paulo, including Miami and New York. Fresh cancellations include flights from Brasilia and Rio until April 28.
Affected customers can submit requests for refunds or rebook through partner airlines.
Avianca Brasil filed for bankruptcy protection last December due to mounting debts including airport and lessor fees.
The airline’s assets, including valuable airport slots, are expected to be sold at auction early next month. Rival carriers Azul, LATAM and GOL are all vying for the slots.
