LATAM Recaro R7 Suites: South America’s First Business Class with Doors

For years, the premium travel landscape in South America was a game of "seat roulette." You might land on a modern pod or find yourself in an outdated 2-2-2 configuration with zero privacy. But as we move through 2026, LATAM Airlines has officially flipped the script.

With the introduction of the Recaro R7 Suites, LATAM isn't just catching up—it’s setting a new gold standard. By becoming the first airline in South America to offer Business Class suites with privacy doors, they have moved into the elite league of global carriers like Qatar Airways and British Airways.

If you are planning a long-haul journey and want to ensure you are flying in the absolute best cabin the continent has to offer, call our premium travel experts at +1-833-894-5333 to lock in your suite.

Quick Answer: What is the New LATAM Business Class?

LATAM Airlines Business Class now features the cutting-edge Recaro R7 Suites, complete with full-height privacy doors. These suites are currently being retrofitted across LATAM’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. Key features include a 1-2-1 layout, direct aisle access for every passenger, fully lie-flat beds, and 18-inch 4K high-definition screens. This makes LATAM the first South American carrier to offer an enclosed "mini-suite" experience.

What Is LATAM Airlines?

Before diving into the hardware, it’s important to understand the scale of the carrier behind this upgrade. LATAM Airlines Group is the undisputed titan of South American aviation. Formed by the merger of LAN (Chile) and TAM (Brazil), the group operates massive hubs in São Paulo (GRU), Santiago (SCL), and Lima (LIM).

Following a major restructuring and a massive $360 million investment in fleet modernization, LATAM is no longer just a way to get from A to B. They are actively positioning themselves as a premium global competitor, leveraging their joint venture with Delta Air Lines to provide seamless, high-end connectivity between the Americas and Europe.

What Are Recaro R7 Suites?

The Recaro R7 (formerly known as the CL6720) is a masterpiece of German engineering. Recaro, a name synonymous with high-performance automotive seats, has designed the R7 to be one of the lightest yet most spacious "mini-suites" in the sky.

Airlines are flocking to the R7 because it allows for a high-density 1-2-1 configuration without sacrificing the passenger's personal bubble. For travelers, it means a seat that feels like a private room, featuring ergonomically designed cushions and intuitive technology that adapts to your body’s natural movements.

LATAM Business Class with Doors: Why It Matters

In the world of premium travel, privacy is the new luxury. The addition of a sliding door is a psychological game-changer.

• Acoustic & Visual Privacy: The door physically blocks the sightline of other passengers and dampens the ambient noise of the cabin.
• Competitive Edge: Previously, if you wanted a door on a flight to South America, you had to fly a US or European carrier. Now, LATAM offers a homegrown "first-class" feel in a Business Class cabin.
• Strategy Shift: This move signals that LATAM is targeting the high-end corporate and "premium leisure" traveler who demands undisturbed rest on 10+ hour flights.

Seat Design & Layout of LATAM Recaro R7 Suites

The cabin is laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration, meaning "the end of the climb." You will never have to step over a neighbor (or be stepped over) again.

Layout Details:

• Honeymoon vs. Divorce Seats: In the center section, alternating rows feature "Honeymoon" seats (placed close together for couples) and "Divorce" seats (separated by large consoles for solo travelers).
• Door Height: While not a "ceiling-high" wall, the R7 door provides significant coverage when you are in a seated or reclined position.
• Aesthetics: Inspired by the "natural beauty of South America," the cabin features deep reds, Andes-inspired stone textures, and antimicrobial faux leather.

Bed, Comfort & Sleeping Experience

The ultimate test of a Business Class seat is how well you sleep. The LATAM Recaro R7 converts into a perfectly flat bed that spans roughly 76 to 79 inches in length.

• The "Footwell" Factor: One common complaint in older seats was a cramped footwell. The R7 optimizes this space, allowing side-sleepers more room to maneuver.
• Bedding: LATAM has upgraded its sleep kits, providing thick mattress pads, plush duvets, and full-sized pillows.
• Privacy: With the door closed and the "Do Not Disturb" light on, the suite becomes a dark, quiet sanctuary for crossing the Atlantic or the equator.

Aircraft Featuring Recaro R7 Suites

Not every LATAM plane has the new suites yet. The rollout is focused on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, specifically:

1. Boeing 787-8: These smaller Dreamliners are receiving 20 suites.
2. Boeing 787-9: The larger variants are being fitted with 30 suites.

Pro Tip: If you see a 2-2-2 layout on your seat map, you are on an older aircraft. If you see 1-2-1 with staggered seating, you have found the R7. For help verifying your specific tail number, reach out to our desk at +1-833-894-5333.

In-Flight Entertainment & Tech

LATAM didn't just upgrade the seats; they overhauled the digital experience.

• The Screen: A massive 18-inch 4K touchscreen that is crisp enough for the most detailed cinematic experiences.
• Connectivity: The R7 features USB-A, USB-C (Fast Charging), and universal AC power outlets.
• Bluetooth: On many retrofitted planes, you can now pair your own AirPods or Bose headphones directly to the screen.
• Wi-Fi: LATAM is investing $60 million to bring high-speed Ka-band satellite Wi-Fi to the entire long-haul fleet by the end of 2026.

Dining in LATAM Airlines Business Class

The "flavor of the region" is the heart of the LATAM menu. You won't find generic "chicken or pasta" here. Expect:

• Regional Specialties: Think Argentinian beef, Peruvian causa, and Chilean seafood.
• The Wine List: Curated by South America’s only Master Sommelier, featuring world-class Malbecs and Sauvignon Blancs.
• Flexible Dining: On many routes, you can choose when you want to eat, allowing you to prioritize sleep.

Service Style & Cabin Atmosphere

The service on LATAM is often described as "warm and professional." It lacks the stiff formality of some European carriers but maintains a high level of attentiveness. The new cabin atmosphere is designed to be calming, with "mood lighting" that mimics the sunrise and sunset to help mitigate jet lag.

Best Routes to Experience LATAM Recaro R7 Suites

As of 2026, the retrofitted 787s are being deployed on flagship routes. Look for the new suites on:

• Santiago (SCL) to Miami (MIA), Madrid (MAD), and Los Angeles (LAX).
• São Paulo (GRU) to London (LHR) and New York (JFK).
• Lima (LIM) to Madrid (MAD).

Availability is highest on flights departing from Santiago, as the retrofit program began with the Chile-based fleet.

LATAM Business Class vs. Competitors

How does it stack up? Here is a quick comparison:

Verdict: LATAM is now arguably the best way to fly to South America, especially if you value a modern, private "suite" experience over the aging products found on some US competitors.

Who Should Book LATAM Business Class Now?

1. The Business Executive: If you need to hit the ground running in São Paulo after a 12-hour flight, the privacy of the R7 door is essential.
2. Couples on a Honeymoon: The center "Honeymoon" seats are perfect for sharing a meal while still having your own private exits.
3. Aviation Enthusiasts: Being among the first to fly the R7 on a South American carrier is a bucket-list experience for 2026.

Common Mistakes Travelers Make

• Mistake #1: Assuming "All 787s are the same." Many 787-9s still carry the older (though still good) Thompson Vantage XL seats without doors. Always check the seat map.
• Mistake #2: Booking the 767. While comfortable, the Boeing 767 fleet generally does not feature the R7 suites.
• Mistake #3: Missing out on the Lounge. LATAM’s flagship lounge in Santiago is one of the best in the world. Don't skip it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does LATAM Business Class have doors? Yes, the new LATAM Business Class featuring Recaro R7 Suites includes sliding privacy doors. This experience is currently available on retrofitted Boeing 787 aircraft. It provides enhanced quiet and seclusion for long-haul international travelers.

What are Recaro R7 Suites? The Recaro R7 is a next-generation Business Class seat designed for maximum privacy and comfort. It features a 1-2-1 layout, direct aisle access, and a fully lie-flat bed, making it one of the most advanced seats in aviation.

Which LATAM planes have the new Business Class? The upgrade is being rolled out across the Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliner fleets. LATAM plans to complete the retrofit of 24 aircraft by the end of 2026. Always check your seat map before booking.

Is LATAM Business Class lie-flat? Yes, all of LATAM’s long-haul Business Class seats, including the new Recaro R7 Suites, are 100% lie-flat. The new suites offer improved bedding and a more spacious footwell compared to older 2-2-2 configurations.

Is LATAM Business Class worth it now? With the addition of privacy doors and 4K tech, LATAM is now a top-tier global competitor. It offers the best premium experience for travelers flying to South America, combining world-class hardware with authentic Latin American hospitality and dining.

Conclusion: Redefining the Skies of the South

The introduction of the Recaro R7 Suites is a "before and after" moment for LATAM Airlines. No longer just a regional leader, LATAM is now a global pacesetter in cabin design. Whether you are traveling for business or a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Patagonia, the peace of mind that comes with a private, doored suite is worth every penny.

Because the rollout is still ongoing, it is vital to ensure your flight is scheduled on a retrofitted aircraft.

Would you like me to help you find a specific flight route that features the new Recaro R7 suites for your upcoming trip? Call us at +1-833-894-5333 for immediate assistance.

Fantastic Transcon · LATAM 787-8 Business Class 🇧🇷 Sao Paulo to Santiago 🇨🇱 Best in South America