Avianca

Avianca stands as a titan of aviation history, distinguished as the second-oldest continuously operating airline in the world and the flagship carrier of Colombia. For over a century, it has served as a vital bridge connecting the diverse landscapes of Latin America with North America and Europe, earning a reputation for reliability and extensive regional coverage. Travelers choosing this airline embark on a journey defined by deep local expertise and a commitment to modern connectivity. Whether flying between bustling Andean capitals or crossing the Atlantic, passengers experience the distinct warmth and service that characterizes this aviation leader.

With a history dating back to 1919, Avianca has evolved from a pioneering enterprise into one of the largest and most significant airline groups in the Americas. Its mission focuses on delivering world-class service while maintaining the highest safety standards, a commitment solidified by its membership in the prestigious Star Alliance network. This global partnership allows passengers to enjoy seamless connections and loyalty benefits across a vast network of international carriers. The airline prides itself on its core values of safety, honesty, and customer-centric innovation, constantly updating its services to meet the needs of modern travelers.

The carrier operates a robust network centered around its primary hub in Bogota, offering high-frequency flights to key Colombian cities such as Medellin, Cartagena, Pereira, and Barranquilla. Beyond domestic travel, it is a major player in international connectivity throughout the region, with popular routes serving capitals like Lima, Quito, and San Salvador. The airline also maintains strong links with North America, facilitating travel to major metropolitan areas including New York City.

To support its extensive operations, Avianca maintains a modern and efficient fleet tailored to both short hops and long-haul journeys. The backbone of its domestic and regional service is the Airbus A320 family, known for efficiency and comfort on shorter routes. For longer international flights, the airline utilizes the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which offers advanced passenger amenities and superior fuel efficiency. This diverse fleet ensures that whether travelers are heading to the beaches of San Andres or business meetings in Guayaquil, they arrive comfortably and safely.

How to Contact Avianca in the United Arab Emirates

As Avianca does not currently operate direct flights to the United Arab Emirates or maintain a permanent local passenger sales office in the region, support is primarily handled through their global digital channels and international contact centers. Travelers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates typically fly with Avianca via connecting flights with partner airlines through hubs in Europe or the Americas. For ticket changes, baggage inquiries, or reservations, it is recommended to use the official website or the mobile app for the fastest service.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight information, manage-my-booking features, and digital support, visit the official international website:

• Website: www.avianca.com

Contact Information

Since there is no dedicated local phone helpline for the UAE, travelers should use the international customer service lines. Please be aware that international call charges may apply.

• International Customer Support (English/Spanish): +57 601 307 3940 (Colombia HQ)
• U.S. Contact Center (Toll-Free via VoIP): +1 800 284 2622
• WhatsApp Support: Available directly through the "Contact Us" section of the official website for text-based assistance.
• Mobile App: Avianca (Available on iOS App Store and Google Play) – Recommended for check-in and real-time updates.

Social Media Connections

Avianca's social media teams are active and can often assist with general inquiries via direct message.

• Facebook: Avianca Global
• X (Twitter): @avianca
• Instagram: @avianca
• LinkedIn: Avianca

Local Presence in United Arab Emirates

• Passenger Offices: There are currently no direct Avianca passenger ticketing offices or counters in UAE airports (DXB, AUH).
• Flight Connections: Passengers traveling from the UAE often connect to Avianca flights via codeshare partners like Emirates. If your journey begins with a partner airline, please contact them directly for initial check-in and baggage queries in the UAE.

24/7 Global Support

The main international contact centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For urgent matters regarding cancellations or missed connections while abroad, using the Help Center on the website or the WhatsApp chat feature is often the most efficient method to reach a live agent from the UAE.

Baggage Information and Packing Guidelines

Preparing for your journey with Avianca requires a good understanding of their baggage policies, which are designed to offer flexibility based on your travel needs. Whether you are flying to Bogota for business or heading to the beaches of Cartagena for a vacation, choosing the right fare option is the first step to managing your luggage allowance. Avianca operates a "branded fares" model (ranging from XS to XXL), meaning your baggage allowance is directly tied to the type of ticket you purchase. Familiarizing yourself with these rules beforehand ensures a smooth check-in process and helps avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Avianca’s carry-on policy distinguishes between a "personal item" and "carry-on baggage." It is crucial to know the difference to avoid gate-check fees.

• Personal Item: Every passenger, regardless of fare class, is allowed one personal item free of charge. This item must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Common examples include a purse, a laptop bag, or a small backpack. The maximum dimensions are typically 45 x 35 x 25 cm.
• Carry-On Bag: A larger overhead cabin bag (up to 10 kg / 22 lbs) is included in most mid-tier and premium fares (such as M, L, and XXL). However, travelers on the most basic fares (like XS) often have to pay extra to bring a carry-on bag. The maximum dimensions for this bag are generally 55 x 35 x 25 cm, including wheels and handles.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage allowances vary significantly by route and fare class. It is always best to check your specific ticket confirmation, but the general guidelines are as follows:

• Economy Class: The standard weight limit for a checked bag is 23 kg (50 lbs). Depending on your fare, you may have zero, one, or two bags included.
• Business Class: Passengers flying in Business Class usually enjoy an increased allowance, often permitting two bags with a higher weight limit of up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each.
• Dimensions: The maximum size for any checked bag is usually 158 linear cm (height + length + width). Bags exceeding this size are considered oversized.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If you plan to bring more than your free allowance permits, Avianca charges fees for additional pieces, overweight bags, and oversized luggage. An "overweight" fee typically applies to bags weighing between 23 kg and 32 kg. Bags weighing over 32 kg are generally not accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo. To save money, it is highly recommended to purchase any necessary extra baggage allowance online regarding your flight to destinations like Medellín or Quito before arriving at the airport, as prepaid rates are significantly lower than counter rates.

Special Items: Sports and Music

Avianca welcomes travelers bringing special equipment, though specific rules apply:

• Sports Equipment: Items such as bicycles, surfboards, golf clubs, and diving gear can be transported. Depending on your fare class and the item's size, this may count as part of your checked baggage allowance or incur a separate special handling fee. Equipment must be properly packed in protective cases.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (like violins or flutes) can be carried on board if they fit within the carry-on dimensions and weight limits. Larger instruments (like guitars or cellos) can be checked in or, for added safety, transported in the cabin on a purchased extra seat.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers and crew, certain items are strictly prohibited or restricted:

• Restricted in Cabin: Sharp objects (knives, scissors), tools, and liquids/gels over 100ml are not allowed in carry-on bags.
• Dangerous Goods: Explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, and toxic substances are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are forbidden in checked bags due to fire safety regulations.
• Smart Bags: Luggage with non-removable lithium batteries is generally prohibited.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To ensure your trip to cities like San Salvador or Lima is hassle-free, consider these packing tips:

Start by weighing your bags at home to avoid surprises at the check-in counter. Use soft-shell luggage if possible, as it is lighter and easier to fit into overhead bins. Place all essential items—such as medication, travel documents, and valuables—in your personal item so they are always accessible. Finally, clearly label all your bags with your name, phone number, and email address inside and out, which greatly assists in recovery should your luggage be delayed.

Pet Travel Guide

Avianca understands that pets are an integral part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. Whether you are relocating or taking a vacation to destinations like Bogota, the airline offers specific services for transporting dogs and cats. It is important to note that Avianca has updated its policies, and options are strictly regulated based on the weight and size of the animal. Passengers are strongly encouraged to book this service well in advance, as space for animals on board is limited.

Transport Options

Avianca primarily offers two modes of transport for pets, determined by the total weight of the animal and its carrier. The airline generally does not accept pets as checked baggage in the hold; therefore, animals that do not fit in the cabin must be shipped via the cargo division.

In the Cabin

Small dogs and cats can travel with you in the aircraft cabin, provided they are small enough to remain in their carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.

• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
• Carrier Dimensions: Only soft carriers are permitted, with maximum dimensions of 41 x 30 x 20 cm (length x width x height).
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the carrier.
• Booking: You must reserve this service at least 48 hours before departure.

Via Avianca Cargo

For pets that exceed the cabin weight limit of 10 kg (22 lbs), or for unaccompanied animals, transport via Avianca Cargo is the required method. This service ensures that larger animals travel in a secure environment handled by specialists.

• When to Use: This option is mandatory for all pets weighing more than 10 kg (including the crate).
• Booking Procedure: Unlike cabin travel, this service is not added to your passenger ticket. You must contact Avianca Cargo directly to arrange the shipment.
• Container Requirements: Animals must travel in rigid, IATA-approved kennels (fiberglass or hard plastic) with metal doors and proper ventilation.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure, especially for international flights to cities like New York City or San Salvador, you must have all valid sanitary documents ready in a physical folder.

• Health Certificate: A sanitary inspection certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. For many international routes, this must be issued within 10 days of travel.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of current vaccinations, with a specific emphasis on Rabies, administered at least 30 days but not more than one year prior to the flight.
• Destination Permits: Each country has specific entry requirements (e.g., CDC guidelines for the USA or ICA regulations for Colombia). Always verify these with the consulate or relevant authority before travel.

Service Costs

Fees for traveling with pets are charged per route and vary depending on the destination.

• In-Cabin Fee: Prices typically range from $25 USD to $135 USD per way, depending on whether the flight is domestic within Colombia or international.
• Cargo Fees: Rates for Avianca Cargo are calculated based on the weight and volume of the crate, as well as the distance traveled. Quotes must be obtained directly from the cargo office.

Restrictions and Tips

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats) are subject to stricter regulations due to their susceptibility to respiratory issues. They are often only permitted in the cabin if they meet the weight requirements; Avianca Cargo may have restrictions on transporting them depending on the season and route.
• Age limit: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 4 months old to travel.
• Preparation: Familiarize your pet with their carrier weeks before the trip. Avoid sedation unless prescribed by a vet, as it can be dangerous at high altitudes.

Note: Policies regarding emotional support animals (ESAs) have changed, and they are now treated as pets unless they are trained service dogs with appropriate certification. Always check the official Avianca website for the most current regulations before you fly.

Loyalty Program: LifeMiles

LifeMiles is the award-winning loyalty program of Avianca, recognized widely for its flexibility and generous earning potential for travelers across the Americas and beyond. Designed to reward frequent flyers, the program allows members to accumulate miles through flights and everyday purchases, which can then be exchanged for a variety of travel rewards and exclusive privileges.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four status levels, each offering progressively valuable benefits to enhance the travel experience:

• LifeMiles (Red): The entry-level membership allowing users to accrue miles on all eligible flights and partner transactions immediately.
• Silver: Provides members with priority check-in, a mileage earning bonus, and Star Alliance Silver status recognition.
• Gold: Unlocks access to VIP airport lounges, priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and Star Alliance Gold benefits.
• Diamond: The top-tier status offering complimentary upgrades, guaranteed seat availability, and the highest priority for airport services.

How to Earn Miles

Accumulating miles is straightforward and extends beyond just flying, with multiple avenues to grow your balance:

• Flights: Earn qualifying miles on every flight operated by Avianca and Star Alliance partner airlines.
• Credit Cards: Use co-branded LifeMiles credit cards for daily spending to earn miles on every dollar purchased.
• Travel Partners: Collect miles when booking stays with major hotel chains or renting vehicles from international agencies.
• Buy Miles: Take advantage of frequent promotional sales to purchase miles directly at competitive rates to reach reward goals faster.

Redeeming Your Miles

LifeMiles offers versatile redemption options, making it easy to turn balance into travel experiences:

• Award Tickets: Book flights to over 1,300 destinations worldwide using miles on Avianca and partner carriers.
• Cabin Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business Class on eligible Avianca flights.
• Star Alliance Awards: Mix and match airlines within the Star Alliance network on a single ticket reservation.
• Travel Extras: Redeem miles for additional baggage allowance or access to Avianca VIP lounges.

Alliance Membership

Through Avianca’s membership in the Star Alliance, LifeMiles members enjoy global connectivity and reciprocal benefits.

• Global Network: Earn and redeem miles across 26 member airlines, including United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and Turkish Airlines.
• Shared Privileges: Elite members receive recognition and consistent benefits such as lounge access when flying with any alliance partner.

How to Join

Joining LifeMiles is free and can be done in minutes by registering on the official LifeMiles website or through the Avianca mobile app, giving you immediate access to your digital membership card.

Service Classes and Onboard Experience

Avianca has transformed its travel experience to offer maximum flexibility, allowing passengers to pay only for what they need while maintaining high standards of safety and punctuality. The airline operates a modern fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A320 family aircraft for flights within the Americas and Boeing 787 Dreamliners for long-haul routes. Whether you are connecting through Bogota or flying regionally, the service is designed to adapt to different traveler profiles through a "branded fares" system ranging from basic to premium options.

Business Class

For those seeking superior comfort, Avianca offers Business Class, which is most prominent on its wide-body Boeing 787 fleet used for long-distance international flights. Passengers in this cabin enjoy lie-flat seats that recline 180 degrees, ensuring a restful journey across continents. The experience includes priority boarding, increased baggage allowance, and access to VIP lounges. On select shorter routes operated by single-aisle aircraft, a premium cabin experience is available in the front rows, featuring reserved seating with extra legroom and greater recline, along with dedicated service.

Economy Class

Economy Class is structured around customization. Travelers can choose from various fare families (such as XS, S, M, and L) to tailor their ticket. The seats on the Airbus A320 fleet are modern and slimline, designed to maximize personal space. For added comfort, passengers can opt for Avianca Plus seats, located in the first few rows and at emergency exits, which offer additional legroom and priority boarding. USB ports are widely available at seats to keep devices charged throughout the flight.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

Avianca utilizes a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) strategy on most of its narrow-body fleet. The Avianca On Air system allows passengers to connect their smartphones, tablets, or laptops to the aircraft's onboard network to stream movies, TV shows, and music directly to their personal screens free of charge. On long-haul flights aboard the Boeing 787, individual seatback touchscreens are provided, offering a wide selection of international entertainment. Wi-Fi connectivity is also being progressively rolled out across the fleet, enabling travelers to stay connected above the clouds.

Dining and Beverage Services

Meal services vary significantly depending on the route and flight duration:

• Flights within the Americas: On domestic and regional international flights (e.g., to San Salvador or Quito), Avianca offers a "Sales on Board" menu. Passengers can purchase a variety of snacks, drinks, and fresh meals like sandwiches and wraps. Water is typically provided upon request.
• Long-Haul Flights: On flights to and from Europe or longer routes (like New York City to South America on wide-bodies), a complimentary full meal service is included in the ticket price, accompanied by a selection of beverages. Special dietary meals can be requested in advance.

Special Services

Avianca is committed to making travel accessible and comfortable for everyone. The airline provides specialized assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services which must be requested at least 24 hours before departure. Families traveling with infants receive priority boarding, and an Unaccompanied Minor service is available for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised from the check-in counter to their final destination.

Destinations and Route Network

As the flagship carrier of Colombia, Avianca operates a vast and dense network that connects travelers to the heart of Latin America. With its primary hub located in Bogota, the airline serves as a strategic bridge for passengers moving between South America, Central America, and North America. Whether you are planning a beach vacation, a business trip, or a cultural exploration, the airline's extensive schedule offers convenient options to reach major capitals and regional centers.

Domestic Connections in Colombia

For travelers looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Colombia, Avianca offers an unmatched frequency of domestic flights. The airline connects the capital with key economic and tourist hubs. Passengers can easily travel to the vibrant city of Medellín or fly to the Caribbean coast to visit the historic walled city of Cartagena and the industrial port of Barranquilla.

The network also covers the scenic Coffee Axis with flights to Pereira and Armenia, as well as routes to the Santander region via Bucaramanga and the border city of Cúcuta. For sun-seekers, frequent services operate to the beaches of Santa Marta and the island paradise of San Andres. Other notable domestic destinations served include Cali and Monteria, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the country.

International and Regional Presence

Beyond Colombia, the airline maintains a strong presence in neighboring countries, facilitating seamless regional travel. A key focus is Ecuador, with frequent connections between the coastal city of Guayaquil and the high-altitude capital of Quito, as well as cross-border flights linking these cities to Bogota. To the south, the airline connects travelers to the historic capital of Peru, Lima.

In Central America, San Salvador serves as another crucial connecting point. From here, the airline offers routes to Alajuela in Costa Rica and key destinations in the United States, including New York City and McNair. This network structure allows for efficient transit between North and South America.

Top Routes and Frequencies

The following table highlights some of the most popular routes operated by the airline, showcasing the high frequency of flights connecting major cities across its network.

Securing the best value for your journey with Avianca often starts with timing. To find the most competitive fares, it is generally advisable to book your tickets several weeks in advance, especially for high-demand routes connecting the hub in Bogota to popular destinations like Medellín or Cartagena. Being flexible with your travel dates can also yield significant savings, as flying on Tuesdays or Wednesdays is frequently cheaper than weekend travel.

To stay updated on the latest deals and promotions, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their official social media channels. Joining the LifeMiles loyalty program is another excellent strategy; it not only allows you to accumulate miles for future travel but often provides members with early access to sales and exclusive offers.

For a smoother airport experience, take advantage of the online check-in feature. This service typically becomes available 24 hours before your scheduled departure, allowing you to confirm your presence and download your mobile boarding pass. If you are traveling with checked luggage, using the online service can still save you time, as you can simply proceed to the designated bag-drop counters upon arrival at the terminal.

Pay close attention to seat selection when booking your ticket. Avianca offers a "fare families" structure (such as XS, S, M, L, and XXL), where lighter fares might not include free seat selection or carry-on bags. If you have a preference for a window seat or need extra legroom, it is recommended to purchase your seat during the initial booking process rather than waiting until the last minute, when availability may be limited.

Finally, ensure a stress-free trip by purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected events like cancellations or medical emergencies. Additionally, downloading the Avianca mobile app is highly recommended. It serves as a powerful travel assistant, giving you real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and easy access to your travel documents right from your smartphone.

A Century of Aviation History

The story of Avianca begins on December 5, 1919, in the city of Barranquilla. Originally established as SCADTA (Sociedad Colombo-Alemana de Transportes Aéreos), it holds the distinction of being the second-oldest airline in the world continuously in operation, founded just months after KLM. Created by a partnership between Colombian businessmen and German immigrants, the carrier played a pivotal role in connecting the rugged and diverse geography of Colombia, reducing travel times from weeks to hours.

A defining moment arrived in 1940 when SCADTA merged with another regional operator, SACO (Servicio Aéreo Colombiano). This strategic union gave birth to Aerovías Nacionales de Colombia, known globally as Avianca. In the decades that followed, the airline became a pioneer in Latin American aviation, being the first in the region to operate jet aircraft. This technological leap facilitated the expansion of its network to major international destinations, including establishing regular service to New York City and key European capitals.

The modern era of the airline has been marked by significant growth and consolidation. A major milestone occurred with the integration of TACA Airlines, a leading Central American carrier. This merger expanded the airline's operational footprint, establishing important secondary hubs in San Salvador and Lima to complement its main base in Bogota. The move created one of the most extensive route networks in the Americas, serving over 100 destinations.

In 2012, the carrier strengthened its global connectivity by officially joining the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance. This membership opened doors for passengers to enjoy seamless travel and loyalty benefits across dozens of partner airlines. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2019, the airline continues to evolve, focusing on modernizing its fleet and services while maintaining its legacy as the flagship carrier of Colombia.