Boliviana de Aviacion

Boliviana de Aviación, widely known as BoA, serves as the flag carrier of Bolivia and stands as a symbol of connection for the heart of South America. Established to ensure consistent and accessible air transport for the nation, the airline has evolved from a domestic operator into a significant regional player with a growing international footprint. Travelers choosing BoA experience a unique blend of Andean hospitality and a commitment to bridging the diverse landscapes of Bolivia with major global cities. Whether you are navigating the high-altitude peaks of the Andes or crossing the Atlantic, the airline focuses on integrating safe operations with a service-oriented approach.

Connecting the Andes to the World
BoA operates a robust network that links key Bolivian cities such as Cochabamba, Sucre, and La Paz. This domestic connectivity is vital for navigating the country's challenging geography. Internationally, the airline provides essential routes to South American neighbors, including Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Lima, and Asunción. For long-haul travelers, BoA offers direct connections to Madrid in Europe and Miami Beach in North America.

Fleet and Modernization
The airline maintains a fleet primarily composed of Boeing 737 aircraft for short and medium-haul routes, known for their reliability in various operational conditions. For long-haul intercontinental flights, BoA has integrated wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A330-200. These modern additions are designed to enhance passenger comfort with updated in-flight entertainment systems and business class configurations.

Service and Values
Boliviana de Aviación was founded with the mission to democratize air transport in Bolivia, making travel more accessible to its citizens while promoting tourism and trade. The airline often distinguishes itself by offering complimentary catering and baggage allowances on many fare classes, a service aspect that adds value for passengers. Safety remains a core pillar of their operations, adhering to international standards and regularly updating their operational procedures to ensure a secure journey for all travelers.

Contacting Boliviana de Aviación in the United Arab Emirates

Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) does not currently operate a permanent local office or dedicated customer service center within the United Arab Emirates. Travelers in the UAE are advised to manage their bookings primarily through the official website or by contacting the airline's international support channels in Bolivia or Miami.

Official Website

For the most direct service, ticket changes, and flight information, please use the official global website, which allows for online booking and management.

• Official Website: www.boa.bo

Contact Information

Since there is no local UAE support team, please use the following international contact details. English and Spanish support is generally available.

• International Customer Service (Bolivia): +591 4 415 0000
• WhatsApp Support: +591 717 244 54 (Available 07:00 – 23:00 Bolivia Time)
• Ticket Booking & Enquiries Email: boa-institucional@boa.bo
• Web Sales Support Email: ventasweb@boa.bo
• Mobile App: Available as "BoA Movil" on Google Play and Apple App Store

Social Media

The airline is active on social media and often responds to direct messages regarding travel updates and general queries.

• Facebook: Boliviana de Aviación
• X (Twitter): @BoABolivia
• Instagram: @boa_bolivia

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Currently, there are no physical offices or airport desks for Boliviana de Aviación in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates. All administrative matters must be handled via the digital channels or international phone lines listed above.

Emergency & Support Hours

While there is no dedicated 24/7 hotline specifically for the UAE, the international call center and WhatsApp support operate during extended hours in the Bolivian time zone (GMT-4).

• WhatsApp Service Hours: Daily from 07:00 to 23:00 (Bolivia Time)
• Note: For urgent matters outside these hours, travelers may try contacting the Miami station during US business hours at +1 305 876 7000, though availability is not guaranteed.

Baggage Guidelines

Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) is generally known for its generous baggage policies, often including checked luggage in the ticket price where other carriers might charge extra. However, allowances can vary significantly depending on your route—specifically whether you are flying domestically within Bolivia or traveling internationally to destinations like Miami Beach or Madrid.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers are entitled to bring hand luggage on board, designed to fit in the overhead compartments or under the seat in front of you. The specific weight limit depends on your destination:

• Domestic Flights: For flights within Bolivia (e.g., between La Paz and Cochabamba), the maximum weight is typically 7 kg (15 lbs).
• International Flights: For regional and long-haul routes, such as those to Buenos Aires or Sao Paulo, the allowance usually increases to 10 kg (22 lbs).

Dimensions and Personal Items:
The standard maximum dimensions for carry-on bags are 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm (including wheels and handles). In addition to your main carry-on, you are permitted one small personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, which must fit securely under the seat.

Checked Baggage Limits

BoA operates under two different baggage concepts depending on the route: the Weight Concept and the Piece Concept.

1. Domestic and Regional Routes (Weight Concept)
For flights within Bolivia and most South American destinations like Lima or Asunción, the allowance is based on total weight rather than the number of bags.

• Adults and Children: typically allowed up to 20 kg (44 lbs) for domestic flights and 30 kg (66 lbs) for international regional flights.
• You may check multiple bags as long as the combined weight does not exceed the limit.

2. Long-Haul Routes (Piece Concept)
For flights to and from Europe and North America, BoA often offers a competitive allowance:

• Economy Class: Generally allows two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Business Class: Typically allows three pieces, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
• This applies to major routes connecting the hub in Santa Cruz de la Sierra with Madrid and Miami.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance in weight or size, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees vary based on the route and are usually calculated per kilogram for domestic/regional flights or per additional piece for long-haul flights. It is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage allowance online or at the airline's offices in advance, as fees paid at the airport check-in counter are generally higher.

Special Baggage

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments
BoA allows the transport of special items such as surfboards, bicycles, golf clubs, and musical instruments. These items may count towards your free baggage allowance if they fall within the size and weight restrictions. If they exceed these limits, a special handling fee will be charged.
Note: Large musical instruments (like cellos) may require booking an extra seat if they cannot be checked in. Always contact the airline at least 48 hours before your flight to reserve space for bulky equipment.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage:

• Lithium Batteries: Loose lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your hand luggage only. They are forbidden in checked bags due to fire risk.
• Flammable Liquids and Gases: Items such as lighter fuel, paints, and camping gas are prohibited.
• Sharp Objects: Knives, scissors, and tools must be packed in checked luggage.
• Perishables: When traveling internationally, be aware of customs regulations regarding food, plants, and seeds.

Tips for Efficient Packing

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the limits, especially for domestic flights where the 20 kg limit is strictly enforced.
• Layer Your Items: Temperatures can vary drastically between the high-altitude cities like La Paz and the tropical lowlands of Santa Cruz. Pack layers to save space and stay comfortable.
• Label Everything: Attach sturdy luggage tags with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked bags. Placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a smart backup.
• Secure Fragile Items: If you buy local handicrafts or souvenirs, wrap them in soft clothing and place them in the center of your checked bag for maximum protection.

Traveling with Pets on Boliviana de Aviación

Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) recognizes that pets are important family members and provides dedicated services to ensure they travel safely with you. Whether you are flying domestically to Cochabamba or taking an international trip to Miami Beach, the airline offers specific transport options for dogs and cats. Space for animals is limited per flight, so it is crucial to book your pet's reservation well in advance of your travel date.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small dogs and cats are welcome in the passenger cabin, provided they can remain comfortably inside their carrier for the duration of the flight. This option is strictly regulated to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers.

• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the animal and the carrier must not exceed 5 kg (11 lbs). This limit is strictly enforced; heavier pets must travel in the cargo hold.
• Carrier Dimensions: Soft-sided carriers are recommended and should not exceed 45 x 35 x 20 cm to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 3 months old to fly.
• Behavior: The animal must remain inside the carrier at all times and must not disturb other passengers.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

For pets that exceed the cabin weight limit, BoA offers transport in the aircraft's pressurized and temperature-controlled cargo hold. This allows your pet to travel on the same flight as you in a secure environment.

• Kennel Requirements: Animals must travel in an IATA-approved rigid container (hard plastic or fiberglass) with a secure metal door and proper ventilation.
• Comfort: The kennel must be spacious enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Weight Limits: Generally, pets and crates with a combined weight of up to 45 kg (99 lbs) are accepted as checked baggage, though this depends on the aircraft type.
• Restrictions: Transport may be restricted during periods of extreme heat or cold at departure or arrival airports to protect the animal's health.

As Cargo (Boliviana Express)

Animals that are too large for checked baggage, are traveling unaccompanied, or are destined for countries with strict import regulations must be transported via the airline's cargo division, Boliviana Express.

• Booking: This service requires a separate booking process and airway bill, handled directly through the cargo department.
• Formalities: Check-in and retrieval procedures differ from standard passenger travel and usually take place at the cargo terminal.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure from Santa Cruz de la Sierra or any other station, you must present valid veterinary documents. Requirements vary significantly based on your destination.

• Health Certificate: A valid veterinary certificate issued typically within 10 days of the flight, confirming the animal is healthy and fit to fly.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of a valid rabies vaccination, administered between 30 days and 12 months prior to travel.
• Zoosanitary Certificate: For international travel to destinations like Madrid or Buenos Aires, you will need an export certificate issued by the national sanitary authority (e.g., SENASAG in Bolivia).
• Microchip: Essential for entry into the European Union and recommended for other international routes.

Service Costs

Transporting pets is not included in the free baggage allowance and is subject to additional fees. These fees are calculated based on the route and the method of transport.

• Domestic Flights: Fees typically range from 200 to 300 BOB, depending on the route.
• International Flights: Fees generally range from $100 to $150 USD for cabin transport and $150 to $250 USD for the hold, varying by destination.

Restrictions and Safety

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs (such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boxers) and cats (such as Persians) are generally restricted from traveling in the cargo hold due to the risk of respiratory issues at high altitudes.
• Sedation: Boliviana de Aviación advises against sedating pets, as tranquilizers can cause adverse cardiovascular reactions at cruising altitudes.
• Service Animals: Certified service dogs and emotional support animals (with proper medical documentation) may travel in the cabin free of charge, but the airline must be notified at least 48 hours in advance.

Important: Regulations regarding animal transport are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend visiting a BoA office or contacting their call center at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm the specific requirements for your breed and destination.

Frequent Flyer Program: Elévate

Boliviana de Aviación rewards its most loyal passengers through its exclusive frequent flyer program, Elévate. Designed to recognize those who choose BoA for their journeys, the program allows members to accumulate miles on every flight, translating travel distance into future adventures and premium benefits. Whether you are commuting frequently between La Paz and Cochabamba or flying long-haul to Madrid, Elévate offers a way to maximize the value of your time in the air.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The Elévate program is structured into three distinct levels, each designed to provide increasing rewards as you fly more often. Moving up the tiers is based on the number of qualifying miles or flight segments flown within a calendar year.

• Esencial (Essential): The entry-level tier where all members begin their journey. "Esencial" members can accumulate miles on all eligible BoA flights, access member-only promotions, and redeem miles for award tickets.
• Élite (Elite): Designed for frequent travelers who reach specific milestones, typically requiring around 30,000 qualifying miles. This mid-tier status unlocks valuable perks such as priority check-in counters, additional baggage allowance, and access to VIP lounges, particularly at the main hub in Santa Cruz de la Sierra.
• Leyenda (Legend): The highest level of recognition reserved for the airline's top-tier flyers. "Leyenda" members enjoy the most exclusive benefits, including the highest priority for cabin upgrades, guaranteed seat availability on select flights, preferential boarding, and maximum bonus miles earned per trip.

Earning Miles

Building your mileage balance is straightforward. The number of miles earned depends on the distance flown and the fare class purchased.

• Flights: Members earn miles on all flights operated by Boliviana de Aviación. International routes, such as those to Miami Beach or Buenos Aires, generate significantly more miles than shorter domestic hops.
• Fare Classes: Flexible and Business Class fares earn a higher percentage of miles compared to promotional or basic economy fares.
• Financial Partners: BoA partners with select financial institutions in Bolivia, allowing members to earn Elévate miles through everyday spending on co-branded credit cards.

Redeeming Miles

Once you have accumulated a sufficient balance, your miles can be exchanged for a variety of travel rewards, making your next trip even more affordable.

• Award Tickets: The most popular way to use miles is by booking free flights to destinations across the network, such as Sao Paulo or Lima. Note that taxes and airport fees must usually be paid in cash.
• Upgrades: Miles can often be used to upgrade from Economy to Business Class on applicable international flights, providing a more comfortable experience with lie-flat seats and premium catering.
• Transferability: The program allows for flexibility, enabling members to transfer miles to family members or purchase additional miles to reach a specific reward threshold.

Alliance and Connectivity

Boliviana de Aviación is currently an independent carrier and is not a member of major global airline alliances. However, the Elévate program is focused on rewarding loyalty specifically on BoA's own network. While earning and redeeming are primarily centered on BoA flights, the airline maintains interline agreements with other carriers to facilitate smooth connections for passengers traveling beyond the direct network.

How to Join

Joining Elévate is free and open to individual travelers. Passengers can register online via the official Boliviana de Aviación website or sign up at any BoA sales office. It is highly recommended to enroll before your first flight to ensure that miles from your initial journey are automatically credited to your account.

Flying with Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) offers a warm introduction to Bolivian culture even before you touch down. The airline prides itself on providing a full-service experience, distinct from the low-cost models prevalent in many markets today. Whether you are taking a short domestic hop or crossing the Atlantic, BoA aims to ensure passenger comfort through inclusive amenities and attentive hospitality.

Service Classes

BoA primarily operates a two-class configuration on its long-haul fleet, while domestic and regional flights are often operated with a single-class Economy cabin, though service levels remain high across the board.

Economy Class
Available on all routes, Economy Class is designed to provide functionality and value. On the Boeing 737 fleet used for domestic and regional routes to cities like Sao Paulo and Lima, passengers enjoy standard seating with adjustable headrests. On long-haul flights operated by the Airbus A330-200, the cabin is configured to ensure comfort for extended journeys, featuring individual entertainment screens and blankets for overnight travel.

Business Class (Clase Ejecutiva)
Exclusively available on long-haul international routes to Madrid and Miami Beach, Business Class offers a premium experience. Passengers in this cabin enjoy priority check-in, access to VIP lounges at select airports, and increased baggage allowances. Onboard, the seats on the wide-body aircraft recline significantly—transforming into lie-flat or angled-flat beds depending on the specific aircraft configuration—allowing travelers to arrive well-rested. Business Class guests also receive amenity kits and personalized service from the cabin crew.

Dining and Beverages

One of BoA's distinguishing features is its commitment to providing complimentary catering on nearly all flights, a rarity in modern aviation. The airline believes that sharing a meal is part of the Bolivian spirit of hospitality.

• Domestic Flights: Even on short flights within Bolivia, such as the popular route between La Paz and Santa Cruz de la Sierra, passengers are typically served a "BoA Snack," which usually consists of a sandwich, a pastry, and a choice of beverages.
• International Flights: On regional flights to destinations like Buenos Aires or Asunción, a hot meal or a substantial cold meal is served. On long-haul flights to Europe and North America, passengers enjoy a full multi-course meal service, including a choice of hot entrees, salads, desserts, and a selection of wines and spirits.

In-Flight Entertainment

Entertainment options vary by aircraft type. On the long-range Airbus A330 fleet, passengers have access to individual seatback screens featuring a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games to pass the time. For flights operated by the Boeing 737 fleet, BoA is progressively rolling out wireless streaming services, allowing passengers to view content directly on their personal smartphones, tablets, or laptops. It is recommended to bring your own headphones and charged devices for regional travel.

Special Assistance Services

Boliviana de Aviación provides a range of special services to ensure air travel is accessible to everyone. These services must be requested at least 48 hours in advance through the airline's call center or sales offices.

• Unaccompanied Minors: BoA offers a supervised travel service for children between the ages of 5 and 17 traveling alone. Ground staff and cabin crew monitor the child throughout the journey, from check-in until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available from the check-in counter to the aircraft seat. The airline's staff is trained to assist passengers with disabilities to ensure a safe and dignified boarding process.
• Expectant Mothers and Infants: Special guidelines apply for pregnant women depending on the stage of pregnancy. Families traveling with infants can request priority boarding and, on long-haul flights, may be able to reserve a bassinet (subject to availability and weight limits).

Destinations & Route Network

Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) operates a comprehensive network that connects the diverse landscapes of Bolivia with key international cities. Centered around its primary hub in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the airline facilitates smooth transit between high-altitude Andean regions and the tropical lowlands, as well as providing vital links to South America, North America, and Europe.

Domestic Connectivity

BoA serves as the primary bridge between Bolivia's major cities, offering high-frequency flights that cater to both business and leisure travelers. The domestic network is designed to handle the country's unique geography efficiently.

• Major Routes: The most frequent connections operate between the hub and the cities of Cochabamba and La Paz. These routes form the backbone of the airline's schedule, with numerous daily departures ensuring flexibility.
• Regional Centers: Regular service extends to Sucre, the constitutional capital, and Tarija, connecting these culturally rich areas to the rest of the country.
• Tourism & Remote Areas: Travelers looking to explore Bolivia's natural wonders can fly to Uyuni, famous for its salt flats. The network also includes flights to Trinidad and Oruro, supporting connectivity to smaller regional centers.

International Connections

The airline’s international strategy focuses on linking Bolivia with major global hubs, facilitating trade and tourism.

• South America: BoA maintains a strong regional presence with frequent flights to Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo, which are among its busiest international routes. The airline also connects passengers to Lima, Asunción, Caracas, and Iquique.
• Long-Haul Destinations: For travelers heading further afield, BoA operates direct flights to Miami Beach, serving as a key gateway to North America. Transatlantic passengers are served by routes to Madrid, connecting Bolivia directly with Europe.

Securing the best fares with Boliviana de Aviacion often requires a bit of strategic planning. Generally, it is advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance for domestic flights within Bolivia, such as trips between La Paz and the airline's main hub in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. For international long-haul routes, such as flights to Madrid or Miami Beach, booking 2 to 3 months ahead typically yields the most competitive prices.

To find the best deals and promotions, frequently check the airline's official website and consider subscribing to their newsletter. Seasonal sales often occur around major holidays or during low-season travel periods. Comparing prices for flights to popular destinations like Sao Paulo or Buenos Aires on flight comparison platforms can also help you spot sudden price drops or special limited-time offers.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in service. This feature usually opens 24 to 48 hours before your scheduled departure. Completing this step digitally allows you to confirm your travel details and obtain your boarding pass in advance, significantly reducing the time spent standing in queues at airport counters.

When it comes to seat selection, choosing your spot early is highly recommended, especially for longer journeys. Whether you prefer a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for easier mobility, selecting your seat during the booking process or as soon as online check-in opens ensures you get your preferred location before the cabin fills up.

Enhance your travel management by downloading the Boliviana de Aviacion mobile app. The app serves as a convenient tool for managing your itinerary, checking flight status in real-time, and accessing digital boarding passes directly from your smartphone. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected events, such as baggage delays or flight cancellations, ensuring a smoother and more worry-free journey.

History and Development

Founding and Early Years
Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) was established by the Bolivian government in October 2007 to ensure the continuity of air transport services for the nation. Following the decline of former market leaders like Lloyd Aéreo Boliviano, the country required a stable and reliable flag carrier to maintain essential connectivity. BoA officially launched its commercial operations in March 2009, initially focusing on the "trunk route" connecting the three major cities: Cochabamba, La Paz, and Santa Cruz de la Sierra. This early period was defined by a commitment to democratizing air travel, making it more accessible and affordable for Bolivian citizens.

Expansion and International Reach
After consolidating its domestic presence, the airline quickly turned its eyes toward international horizons. In 2010, BoA launched its first international flights to Buenos Aires, serving the large Bolivian community in Argentina. This was rapidly followed by the addition of Sao Paulo to the network, strengthening ties with Bolivia's largest neighbor. The airline achieved a significant milestone with the inauguration of long-haul flights to Madrid, re-establishing a direct link between Bolivia and Europe. Subsequently, the route to Miami Beach was added, securing a vital gateway to North America.

Fleet Evolution and Modernization
BoA began operations with a modest fleet of Boeing 737-300 "Classic" aircraft, which were well-suited for the country's high-altitude airports. Over the years, the airline has aggressively modernized its assets to improve efficiency and passenger comfort. The fleet has transitioned toward the Boeing 737 Next Generation (700 and 800 series) for domestic and regional routes. A major leap forward occurred in recent years with the retirement of the aging Boeing 767s, which were replaced by modern Airbus A330-200 aircraft. These newer wide-body jets feature enhanced entertainment systems and business class cabins, elevating the experience on long-haul journeys.

Recent Developments and Innovation
Today, Boliviana de Aviación stands as the undisputed leader in the Bolivian aviation market. In recent years, it has further diversified its network by adding routes to capitals such as Lima, Asunción, and Caracas. The airline continues to focus on operational excellence, recently investing in digital transformation to improve booking platforms and customer service channels. By consistently updating its fleet and expanding its destination list, BoA remains dedicated to its original mission of integrating Bolivia internally and connecting it with the wider world.