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Voa Brasil: Democratization of airfares in focus.
Recently, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Marcio França, announced the launch of Voa Brasil, an innovation intended to make airfares more accessible to everyone. He expects the program to begin later this month.
Voa Brasil Goals
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The program aims to make airline tickets more affordable for everyone, with an expected average price of R$ 200 per leg. In addition, initially, it intends to primarily serve retirees and pensioners.
In a statement to the media, Marcio França said that Voa Brasil is scheduled to launch at the end of August. He also attended the opening ceremony of the 17th edition of Mariner Expo – Maritime Exhibition and Conference, in Rio de Janeiro.
How Voa Brasil Works
Through this project, the government will take the initiative to manage tickets left unsold by airlines, especially outside the tourist season. Beneficiaries will access an app where they can purchase up to two tickets annually, taking one companion on each leg.
“If the individual has not traveled in the past year, they may purchase four tickets. Given the large number of beneficiaries, we will begin gradually. Priority will be given to retirees and pensioners,” França clarified.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism
Voa Brasil will operate in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, in accordance with guidance from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The plan is for hotel establishments to also offer discounts during less busy periods, welcoming tourists participating in the program.
To handle the growing demand from travelers, airports will need adaptations. According to ministry estimates, at least 50,000 tickets will be made available monthly for R$ 200.
123Milhas Situation
The situation involving 123Milhas also came up in França’s remarks. He is in discussions with Flavio Dino, Minister of Justice and Public Security, and the Ministry of Tourism in search of solutions.
On Friday (18), 123Milhas stated that it had suspended ticket sales for trips between September and December of the current year. They assured customers that they would reimburse them with shopping vouchers on the platform.
The National Consumer Defense Secretariat (Senacon) demanded clarification from the company. According to the secretariat, the company must guarantee a fair refund, and choosing vouchers must not be mandatory.
123Milhas removed from Cadastur
The company’s removal from Cadastur – the official registry for entities and businesses in the tourism sector – occurred due to the recurring cancellation of packages and the suspension of ticket issuance for the “PROMO” program. Affected customers will receive refunds via vouchers.
Additionally, Celso Sabino requested that the Ministry of Justice investigate 123Milhas. The removal of 123Milhas from Cadastur is a warning sign, requiring a detailed inspection.
The investigation
It is important to mention that Senacan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, is investigating the business practices of 123Milhas and similar companies, such as Hurb.
Many consumers felt harmed by the company’s decision to cancel the packages. In response, 123Milhas committed to offering vouchers to these customers, enabling new purchases in different sections of its portal.
The revocation of travel packages
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The cancellation of packages sold by 123Milhas generated controversy. The official justification for the cancellation was the impossibility of honoring the services at the agreed price.
These promotional packages offered reduced fares for flights and accommodation. However, some did not have a fixed travel date, depending on the company's search for more economical days. With the surge in post-pandemic demand, inflation in sectors such as aviation began to increase the total cost of trips.
Implications and future guidelines
The removal of 123Milhas from Cadastur and the subsequent investigation raise questions about the company's business model. The repercussions in the tourism sector and its impact on customers are points of concern.
As the investigation progresses, it is essential that affected customers receive fair compensation. Thus, it must be ensured that similar situations are avoided.
The removal and examination of 123Milhas reinforce that transparency and business ethics are vital for customer loyalty and continued prosperity.
