The Rise and Fall of Brazil's Biggest Airline - VARIG (not a happy ending)

Viação Aérea Rio-Grandense - otherwise known as VARIG - was once the largest airline in Latin America. Based out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, VARIG operated a fleet of 150+ planes to every inhabited continent except Australia. Throughout much of their history, they were known for their modern planes, expansive international network and impeccable onboard service. Unlike many of their competitors, they were PRIVATELY-owned - run by a foundation supposedly controlled by the airline's employees. But ironically enough - their ownership structure may have been the principal factor behind their demise. Come join me as we explore the fascinating history of VARIG... which unfortunately doesn't have a very happy ending.

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Who is VARIG??
01:15 Setting the Stage for Air Travel in Brazil
03:23 VARIG is Born
04:37 1930s and 1940s - War, Recovery and Expansion
06:09 1950s - Super Connies and New York!
07:29 1960s - Acquisitions, Jets and More Expansion
10:44 1970s - VARIG's "Golden Age"
12:26 1980s - New CEO, New Jets, Inflation Crisis
14:49 1990s - New Government/Deregulation, Debt Accumulation
17:35 Early 2000s - Compounding Problems - Industry Slowdown, Rise of Gol, Mismanagement
20:53 2005 and 2006 - The Final Straw & Bankruptcy, Acquisition by Gol
23:06 Final Thoughts