Vietnam Airlines

Volare Airlines (VE) is an Italian airline. Despite the carrier's European heritage, the current flight programme available for booking focuses on routes in South America, specifically on domestic flights within Colombia.

Brief information about the airline:

According to current data, the company's route network actively connects Medellin with other important centres in the region. The highest frequency of departures is recorded in the direction of the capital. Additionally, the schedule includes regular flights to Cali and the city of Pereira, ensuring convenient logistics for travellers within the country.

To resolve issues related to booking, flight changes, or to clarify baggage carriage rules, passengers can utilize the airline's support service. It is recommended to save contact details in advance and verify their validity before departure, especially considering the specifics of regional routes.

Official Resources

Given the nature of the carrier's operations, the most accurate information can be obtained through official channels:

• Official Website: It is recommended to verify the current web address on your itinerary receipt or with your tour operator when issuing the ticket.
• Support Service: Contact centre phone numbers are usually indicated on the booking confirmation.
• Email: For sending official requests and claims, use the email address listed in the "Contacts" section of the website or mobile app.
• Mobile App: Availability and download links should be checked in the official App Store and Google Play stores by searching for "Volare Airlines".

Social Media

You can follow news, special offers, and schedule changes through the airline's official social media pages (if available). It is recommended to look for verified accounts on Facebook, Instagram, or X (Twitter) to receive prompt information.

Offices and Representatives

Since the airline actively operates flights within Colombia, the main passenger service points are located at key transport hubs:

• Hub in Bogota: Service counters and a representative office can be found at Bogota Airport (El Dorado).
• Medellin: An office or check-in counters are available at the departure airport servicing flights to the capital and other regions.

Please note: Contact details for air carriers may change. We strongly recommend checking information on the official website or with the departure airport's information service directly before your trip.

Baggage Carriage Rules

Preparing luggage is an important stage of planning a trip with Volare Airlines (VE). The airline's policy is designed to ensure passenger safety and comfort; however, allowances may vary depending on the class of service and the selected fare. We recommend carefully reviewing the conditions of your ticket before departure.

Hand Luggage Allowances

Passengers are usually permitted to take one piece of hand luggage on board. This can be a small suitcase, a backpack, or a travel bag. Dimensions must allow items to be placed on the shelf above the seat or under the seat in front of you.

• Dimensions and Weight: Standard limits for most fares allow a weight of up to 8–10 kg. Dimensions must not exceed established limits (usually 55x40x20 cm), including wheels and handles.
• Personal Items: In addition to the main bag, carriage of one personal item is often allowed: a lady's handbag, a briefcase with a laptop, or a small backpack.
• For Infants: If you are travelling with small children, you are generally allowed to take a bag with baby food and necessary items on board, as well as a collapsible stroller (handed over at the ramp).

Checked Baggage

Limits for baggage in the cargo hold depend on the route and booking class. Considering that the airline operates flights through its hub — the city of Bogota, different rules may apply on transit and domestic flights.

• Economy Class: Usually includes one piece of baggage weighing up to 23 kg. In the most budget-friendly fares (Light/Basic), checked baggage may be excluded and must be paid for separately.
• Business Class: Passengers often have the privilege of carrying two pieces of baggage with increased weight (up to 32 kg each).
• Weight Pooling: In most cases, the weight of suitcases is not cumulative. If you have two suitcases of 15 kg each with an allowance of one piece at 23 kg, you will have to pay extra for the second suitcase.

Excess Baggage

If your items exceed the established limits for weight or dimensions, an additional fee applies. Rates for excess weight at the airport are usually higher than when paying in advance online via the website or the Volare Airlines call centre.

Special Items

Transporting non-standard baggage requires prior approval from the airline, preferably no later than 48 hours before departure.

• Sports Equipment: Bicycles, skis, diving equipment, or golf clubs are transported for a separate fee if they do not fit within the standard baggage allowance. Equipment must be carefully packed in protective cases.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin as hand luggage. Large instruments (cellos, guitars) are checked into luggage in hard cases or require purchasing a separate seat in the cabin.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety purposes, there are strict restrictions on baggage contents:

• Prohibited in Hand Luggage: Sharp and cutting objects, toy weapons, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (with the exception of baby food and medicines).
• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: Explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, lithium-ion batteries (these must be carried only in hand luggage).
• Power Banks: External batteries may be carried only in hand luggage.

Tips for Effective Packing

To avoid stress at the airport, follow these simple recommendations:

1. Weigh at Home: Use household scales to ensure the suitcase does not exceed the 23 kg limit.
2. Labelling: Attach a tag with your name and contact details to every suitcase. Take a photo of your luggage on your phone in case of loss.
3. Valuables: Always take money, documents, jewellery, and electronics with you into the cabin.
4. Protection: Use luggage straps or protective wrapping to prevent accidental opening of the suitcase during transport.

Travelling with Pets

Volare Airlines (VE) has a loyal policy regarding the transport of pets, understanding that pets are part of the family. Whether you are flying a short route to Cali or making a connection through the hub in the city of Bogota, the company strives to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers, including four-legged ones.

Transport Options

Transport conditions depend on the weight, size of the animal, and the type of aircraft. For flights connecting Medellin and other cities in the route network, the following options are available:

In the Cabin (Hand Luggage)

• Carrier Dimensions: The container must be soft or semi-rigid to fit under the seat in front. Approximate dimensions are no more than 40×30×20 cm.
• Weight: The maximum weight of the animal together with the carrier is usually 8–10 kg (verify the exact figure when booking).
• Permitted Animals: Cats and small dogs.
• Restrictions: The animal must be able to stand up and turn around freely inside the container. Opening the carrier during the entire flight is prohibited.
• Limit: One passenger may carry only one carrier.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

• Container Requirements: Rigid frame (plastic/metal), secure lock, waterproof bottom, and ventilation grilles. The container must comply with IATA standards.
• Weight and Size: Applies to animals exceeding hand luggage limits (usually up to 75 kg including the cage).
• Conditions: The baggage hold is heated and pressurized.
• Documents: An original veterinary passport attached to the cage is required.

As Cargo

• When Required: For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries with strict import rules.
• Special Requirements: Processing takes place through the cargo terminal, not at the passenger check-in counter.
• Booking: Requires a separate request to the Volare Airlines cargo department.

Necessary Documents

To board the flight, especially if you are flying to Pereira or other regions, you will need to prepare a set of documents:

• International veterinary passport.
• Health certificate (the form depends on the destination, usually issued 3-5 days before departure).
• Valid rabies vaccination (administered no earlier than a year and no later than 21 days before the flight).
• For international flights — relevant veterinary certificates of the destination country.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately according to fixed rates:

• In the Cabin: A fixed fee is charged, which is usually lower than the cost of transport in the hold.
• In the Baggage Hold: The cost depends on the weight of the animal including the cage and the flight distance.
• Payment: It is recommended to pay for the service in advance via the website or call centre, as rates at the airport may be higher.

Preparation Tips

To reduce stress for your pet during the flight, follow recommendations from dog handlers and veterinarians:

• Acclimatization: Let the animal get used to the carrier in advance by leaving it open at home for a few days before departure.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness. Water should be available.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad and a familiar toy or item with the owner's scent in the carrier.
• Medication: Do not give sedatives without a direct recommendation from a veterinarian, as they can affect the animal's blood pressure at altitude.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic dogs (snub-nosed breeds: Pugs, Bulldogs, Pekingese) are often not permitted for transport in the baggage hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Aggressive Behaviour: Animals showing aggression or appearing ill.
• Age: Puppies and kittens under 8-10 weeks old are generally not permitted to fly.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs are transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin provided they have the appropriate certificates and a muzzle.

Attention: Rules for the import and export of animals, as well as rates, may change. We strongly recommend contacting Volare Airlines directly or consulting when purchasing a ticket to clarify current requirements for your flight.

Loyalty Programme

For frequent passengers of Volare Airlines (VE), a reward programme is in place that allows miles travelled to be turned into new opportunities. Participation in the programme makes every trip not only comfortable but also rewarding, offering a range of privileges for frequent flyers.

Status Tiers and Privileges

The loyalty system is usually built on a multi-level basis: the more often you fly, the higher your status and the wider the range of available benefits. Although exact tier names may change, holders of elite status traditionally gain access to the following services:

• Priority Service: The ability to check in for a flight at dedicated counters and utilize priority boarding, bypassing general queues.
• Extra Baggage: Increased checked baggage allowance without additional payment, which is especially relevant for long trips.
• Lounge Access: The opportunity to wait for departure in comfortable airport business lounges, where snacks, drinks, and a quiet atmosphere for rest or work are offered.
• Bonus Miles: Accrual of an increased number of miles for every flight taken compared to the base membership level.

How to Earn Miles

Your bonus account is topped up automatically when flying with the airline, as well as when using partner services:

• Scheduled Flights: The number of miles earned depends on the flight distance and booking class. For example, trips to Medellin or flights to the city of Pereira will earn you points bringing you closer to a reward ticket.
• Transit Flights: Routes with a connection in the airline's hub — the city of Bogota — often allow you to accumulate more miles due to multiple flight segments in one ticket.
• Partner Network: Points can also be earned for booking hotels, renting cars, and using co-branded bank cards from programme partners.

How to Spend Miles

Accumulated bonuses are a kind of currency that can be exchanged for real services to improve travel quality:

• Reward Tickets: You can fully or partially pay for a flight with miles. This is a great opportunity to save on a holiday, for example, by heading to sunny Cali.
• Class Upgrade: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class to enjoy enhanced comfort during the flight.
• Additional Services: Payment for excess baggage, selection of seats with extra legroom, or ordering special meals on board.

Joining the Programme

Becoming a member of the loyalty programme is free. To do this, simply complete a simple registration procedure:

• Fill out the form on the official Volare Airlines website in the relevant section.
• Register via the airline's mobile app so that your digital card is always at hand.
• Do not forget to provide your membership number with every ticket booking so that miles are credited correctly.

Service Classes and Onboard Experience

Volare Airlines (VE) strives to ensure high standards of service, harmoniously combining Italian hospitality with transport precision and efficiency. Regardless of flight duration, passengers can count on the attentive attitude of the crew and thoughtful conditions during the flight.

Available Service Classes

Flights, including popular routes within Colombia, traditionally offer a two-class cabin configuration. This allows travellers to choose the optimal balance between ticket cost and the set of included services.

• Economy Class: The ideal choice for short flights, for example, from Medellin to the capital. Passengers are provided with ergonomic seats featuring adjustable headrests. Seat pitch provides legroom consistent with European standards for regional transport.
• Business Class: Offers an elevated level of comfort and privacy. Passengers in this class heading, for instance, to Bogota, enjoy priority boarding, increased baggage allowance, and seats with a greater recline angle. On some aircraft types, the middle seat in the row is blocked for added convenience.

Dining and Beverages

The gastronomic concept of Volare Airlines reflects the carrier's Italian roots, maintaining quality even on Latin American routes.

• Light Snacks: On short flights (less than an hour), such as the flight to Cali, passengers are offered soft drinks, water, tea or coffee, as well as a light snack (biscuits or crackers).
• Hot Meals: On longer routes or in Business Class, travellers may be offered a menu with a choice of hot dishes, sandwiches, and premium beverages.
• Special Menu: For passengers with dietary restrictions, pre-ordering special meals (Halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) is available. The request must be made no later than 24–48 hours before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To ensure time flies by, the airline implements modern leisure solutions:

Most aircraft are equipped with a content streaming system. Passengers can connect to the internal Wi-Fi network from their smartphones, tablets, or laptops to access the media library. On some aircraft operating flights to Pereira and other cities in the network, USB ports are available for charging gadgets directly at the seat.

The traditional inflight magazine, Volare Magazine, is also available in the seat pocket in front of you, offering fascinating articles about travel, culture, and lifestyle.

Special Services

Volare Airlines pays special attention to categories of passengers requiring extra care and assistance during travel.

• For Children: The airline offers an accompaniment service for unaccompanied minors. For the youngest ones, additional safety belts are provided, and flight attendants are always ready to help warm up baby food.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Necessary assistance is provided to passengers with limited mobility at airports and on board. A request for a wheelchair or boarding assistance should be made at the ticket booking stage.
• Pregnant Women: Flying at late stages of pregnancy (usually after the 28th week) is possible with a medical certificate confirming the absence of contraindications and a satisfactory health condition.

Volare Airlines' route network is structured to ensure convenient connections between regions, relying on its main hub — the city of Bogota. The flight schedule is designed with a focus on high frequency for key destinations, allowing passengers to plan their trips flexibly.

Tips for Booking and Flying

A journey with Volare Airlines (VE) will be as comfortable and cost-effective as possible if you familiarize yourself with booking nuances and flight preparation in advance. We have gathered useful recommendations for you that will help save time and money when planning a trip, whether it is a short flight or a transit route.

Best Time to Book

To get the most favourable fares, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. The optimal time for booking domestic flights, for example, from the city of Medellin, is 3–5 weeks before the intended departure date. Buying tickets during the "off-peak season" or for flights operated mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday) often costs less than departures on Friday or Sunday.

Finding Discounts and Special Offers

The airline regularly holds sales, especially during national holidays and seasonal promotions. To ensure you don't miss out on great offers:

• Subscribe to the newsletter on the official Volare Airlines website.
• Follow the company's pages on social media, where promo codes are often published.
• Check the "Promotions" section when searching for tickets to popular destinations such as Cali or the capital.

Online Check-in

Save time at the airport by checking in for your flight remotely. Online check-in usually opens 24–48 hours before and closes 1–2 hours prior to departure. This is especially convenient for passengers without checked baggage: you can proceed directly to the security zone, bypassing check-in counters. If you are departing from a major hub, such as Bogota, having a mobile boarding pass will significantly speed up pre-flight formalities.

Seat Selection

Comfort during the flight is key to feeling good upon arrival. The booking system allows you to select a seat in advance:

• Window Seat: Ideal for those who want to enjoy the views or sleep without worrying about neighbours moving through the aisle.
• Aisle Seat: Suitable for passengers who prefer the ability to stand up freely during the flight.
• Extra Legroom Seats: Usually located in the first rows or at emergency exits. This service may require additional payment.

Mobile App Features

The official Volare Airlines app is your personal travel assistant. By installing it on your smartphone, you can:

• Buy tickets and manage bookings in a couple of clicks.
• Receive prompt notifications about flight status, delays, or gate changes.
• Store all boarding passes in one place, eliminating the need to print paper copies.
• Accumulate loyalty programme miles and exchange them for services.

Travel Insurance

Even with careful planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise. The airline and travel industry experts strongly recommend taking out an insurance policy. Insurance can cover costs in case of flight cancellation, loss of luggage (which is relevant for connections, for example, if you fly through the city of Pereira), as well as provide medical assistance during the trip. A small investment in insurance guarantees peace of mind throughout the entire journey.

History and Development of the Airline

The history of Volare Airlines (VE) is a fascinating journey of transformation from a regional European carrier to an airline with a unique route structure connecting different continents and cultures. Having started its operations in Italy, the company went through a series of strategic changes to carve out its niche in the modern aviation market.

Founding and Early Years

The airline was founded in Italy with the aim of providing affordable and comfortable flights between cities in Southern Europe and North Africa. In its early years, Volare Airlines focused on charter and scheduled flights, serving popular Mediterranean tourist destinations. Its Italian origins laid the foundation for a corporate culture focused on hospitality and a high level of onboard service.

Expansion and Strategy Shift

As the aviation market developed, the company's management decided to expand its geographical presence. An important milestone in Volare Airlines' history was the revision of its business model and the search for promising emerging markets. This led to a unique strategic turn — shifting operational focus towards Latin America.

A key stage of this expansion was the creation of a powerful transit hub in the city of Bogota. Choosing the Colombian capital as a new base allowed the airline to effectively use its European heritage and quality standards to serve the growing demand for domestic and regional transport in South America.

Fleet Evolution

The Volare Airlines fleet changed along with the company's ambitions:

• Initial Stage: In the early years, the fleet consisted mainly of medium-haul aircraft optimized for flights within Europe.
• Modernization: With entry into new markets and increased flight frequency, the company began updating its fleet with more modern and fuel-efficient liners.
• Current State: Today, the fleet is selected taking into account the specifics of high-altitude airports and short runways characteristic of some Colombian cities, such as Medellin (Olaya Herrera Airport).

Launch of Key Routes

The development of the route network took place in stages. After establishing itself at the main hub, the airline began actively connecting the capital with regional centres. A significant event was the launch of regular service to the city of Cali, which strengthened the carrier's position in the domestic market. Subsequently, the network was supplemented with flights to the coffee region, specifically to the city of Pereira, making Volare Airlines an important player in ensuring transport accessibility within the country.

Modernity and Innovation

In recent years, Volare Airlines has been betting on digitalization and improving the passenger experience. The implementation of modern booking systems, mobile services, and loyalty programmes allows the company to remain competitive. Despite global changes in the aviation industry, the carrier remains true to its roots, combining Italian service traditions with the dynamic rhythm of life in the regions where aircraft with the VE code fly today.