TAM Brazilian AirlinesJJ

DEFUNCT AIRLINE: TAM Linhas Aereas ceased to exist as an independent brand on May 1, 2016, following its merger with LAN Airlines to form LATAM Airlines Group. This guide provides historical information. For current travel, refer to LATAM Airlines.

TAM Linhas Aereas was Brazil's largest domestic airline and one of the largest carriers in Latin America. At its peak, TAM transported over 35 million passengers annually and operated a fleet of approximately 160 aircraft to more than 60 destinations across the Americas and Europe.

Founded in 1961 as Taxi Aereo Marilia (TAM), the airline began as a small air taxi service in the interior of Sao Paulo state. Under the leadership of Commander Rolim Adolfo Amaro, who took control in 1971, TAM transformed from a regional operator into Brazil's dominant carrier. The airline became known for its distinctive red livery and Commander Amaro's legendary "red carpet service," where he personally greeted passengers at aircraft doors.

TAM joined Star Alliance in May 2010, expanding its global connectivity through partnerships with Lufthansa, United Airlines, and other alliance members. This alliance membership would be short-lived, ending when the merged LATAM Airlines chose not to retain membership in any global alliance.

In August 2010, TAM and Chile's LAN Airlines announced plans to merge, creating Latin America's largest airline group. The merger was completed in June 2012, forming LATAM Airlines Group. The TAM brand was gradually phased out, with the last TAM-branded aircraft repainted by early 2016.

HISTORICAL INFORMATION: The policies below reflect TAM's baggage rules during its final years of operation. For current policies, see LATAM Airlines.

Carry-On Allowance

All Fares:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 10 in)
• Weight limit: 8 kg (17.6 lbs) domestic; 10 kg (22 lbs) international
• Plus one small personal item

Checked Baggage (Final Rates circa 2015)

Domestic (Brazil):

Fare Class	Bags Included	Weight Limit
Light	0	Purchase required
Flex	1 bag	23 kg (50 lbs)
Top	1 bag	23 kg (50 lbs)
Business	2 bags	32 kg (70 lbs) each

International:

Fare Class	Bags Included	Weight Limit
Economy	2 bags	23 kg (50 lbs) each
Economy (to US/Europe)	2 bags	32 kg (70 lbs) each
Business	2 bags	32 kg (70 lbs) each

Note: Brazil implemented regulations in 2016 that moved airlines from a weight-based system to a piece-based system with separate fees, which coincided with the TAM-LATAM transition.

Elite Status Benefits (Historical)

TAM Fidelidade Status	Free Bags
Blue	As per fare class
Red	+1 bag (23 kg)
Black	+2 bags (32 kg each)

TAM was renowned for its Brazilian hospitality and service quality, consistently ranking among the best airlines in the Americas.

Business Class

Domestic First Class:

• Recliner seats with 38-42" pitch
• Complimentary meal service and premium beverages
• Priority boarding and dedicated cabin

Long-Haul Business Class (A330/777):

• Lie-flat seats on Boeing 777 and newer A330 configurations
• Angled flat seats on older A330 aircraft
• Multi-course meal service featuring Brazilian cuisine
• Premium wines including Brazilian selections
• Amenity kit and lounge access
• Seat pitch: 60-72" depending on aircraft
• Seat width: 20-21"

Economy Class

Domestic:

• Seat pitch: 31-32"
• Complimentary snacks and soft drinks on most flights
• Buy-on-board options available

Long-Haul:

• Seat pitch: 31-32" (79-81 cm)
• Personal seatback entertainment systems
• Complimentary meals, alcoholic beverages, and snacks
• USB power ports on newer aircraft
• Blankets and pillows on overnight flights

Service Highlights

TAM was famous for its "red carpet service" philosophy, established by founder Commander Rolim. This included:

• Warm Brazilian hospitality from cabin crew
• Complimentary rose offered to female passengers on select flights
• Commander's personal welcome (on flights he piloted)
• Attention to Brazilian cultural touches in service