Avianca Airlines Overview: Routes, Services & Travel Experience

Avianca Airlines is the largest and the flag carrier of Colombia since its inception in December 1919. Headquartered in Barranquilla, the airline serves a network of more than 70 destinations with a fleet of over 120 aircraft, operating daily flights from a single primary hub and three secondary hubs. Avianca Airlines is one of the oldest airlines in the world, which has played a pioneering role in the global aviation industry. The airline establishes strong links between Colombia and other South American countries, North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe. You can reserve great flight options with Avianca Airlines at comparatively lower prices through Faresplanner's intuitive interface. It ensures that passengers have a more manageable experience and can easily find the most affordable flight options. Learn more about the airlines in the subsequent sections. 

Avianca Airlines Hubs

Avianca Airlines operates more than 700 flights on a daily basis across over 160 routes to over 80 destinations and 28 countries. To manage its extensive operations, the airline uses four airports, including one primary hub and three secondary hubs. Below is the list of the airports that serve as hubs for Avianca Airlines:

• El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

  • Avianca Airlines operates from Terminal 1 of El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

• Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO)

  • Avianca Airlines operates from the main passenger terminal of Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO)

• Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG)

  • Avianca Airlines operates from the Domestic terminal of Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG)

• Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE)

  • Avianca Airlines operates from the Domestic terminal of Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE)

Avianca Airlines Top Destinations

Avianca Airlines connects to several prominent locations around the world, including over 70 destinations in its extensive flight network. The airline serves over 28 countries, operates hundreds of flights each day, and is a prominent carrier connecting Europe and the Americas. However, some locations are more popular than others, driving greater demand and enabling the airline to sell more seats. Therefore, based on the popularity, below are some of the top destinations in Avianca Airlines' flight network:

• San Jose (SJO) 
• San Salvador (SAL)
• Sao Paulo (GRU)
• Mexico City (MEX)
• Miami (MIA)
• New York City (JFK)
• Cancun (CUN)
• Buenos Aires (EZE)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• Guatemala City (GUA)
• San Francisco (SFO)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Rio de Janeiro (GIG)
• Toronto (YYZ)
• Paris (CDG) 

Avianca Airlines Top Routes

Avianca Airlines operates over 160 routes connecting to several renowned destinations, catering to millions of passengers who reach their destinations with ease. However, some chosen routes are generally more popular and attract more tourists, thereby increasing demand. Below are some of the most popular routes of Avianca Airlines:

• Bogota (BOG) to San Jose (SJO)
• San Jose (SJO) to San Salvador (SAL)
• Sao Paulo (GRU) to Bogota (BOG)
• Mexico City (MEX) to Bogota (BOG)
• Bogota (BOG) to Miami (MIA)
• San Salvador (SAL) to New York City (JFK) 
• Bogota (BOG) to Cancun (CUN)
• Buenos Aires (EZE) to Bogotá (BOG)
• Guatemala City (GUA) to Los Angeles (LAX)
• San Francisco (SFO) to San Salvador (SAL)
• Bogota (BOG) to Orlando (MCO)
• Rio de Janeiro (GIG) to Bogota (BOG) 
• Bogota (BOG) to Toronto (YYZ)
• Bogota (BOG) to Paris (CDG)
• Madrid (MAD) to Bogota (BOG) 

Avianca Airlines Codeshare Partners

Avianca Airlines enters into a codeshare agreement with several other carriers to expand its operational destinations. By sharing the code, Avianca enhances its connectivity, allowing its passengers to reach even destinations where it does not operate directly. A list highlighting the carriers with which Avianaca shares its code is provided below to reveal its codeshare partners:

• Aeromexico 
• Air Canada 
• Air China
• Air India
• All Nippon Airways
• Austrian Airlines
• Avianca El Salvador
• Azul Brazilian Airlines
• Bolivian de Aviación
• Brussels Airlines
• Clic Air
• Copa Airlines
• Cubana de Aviación
• Etihad Airways
• EVA Air
• Gold Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes
• Iberia 
• ITA Airways
• Lufthansa
• Scandinavian Airlines
• Singapore Airline 
• Star Peru
• Swiss International Air Lines
• TAP Air Portugal 
• Thai Airways International 
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines

Types of Classes / Cabins with Avianca Airlines

Avianca Airlines aims to serve every kind of passenger, regardless of their preferences and budgets, which is why it offers a range of fares across its two distinct cabins: economy and business. Each cabin varies in service quality, offering unique and beneficial features for passengers. Therefore, you can learn more about each cabin and its services, which is discussed ahead. 

Avianca Airlines Economy Class

Avianca's economy class aims to offer affordability while providing all necessary rights to passengers, ensuring a convenient journey. Avianca Airlines' economy cabin offers four fare types: Basic, Light, Classic, and Flex, with each higher fare type offering a more enhanced experience. While travelling through Avianca's economy class, you can expect to enjoy the following services:

• A benevolent baggage allowance is given to passengers, allowing them to carry more. 
• Flex fares can be changed or cancelled by requesting a refund from the airline. 
• Miles accumulation begins at 3 miles per USD, and with a higher fare, it goes to around 8 miles. 
• The Seat selection is also given to the passenger depending on the purchased fare type.
• Passengers, depending on their purchase fare, will also obtain a check-through the airport counter. 

Avianca Airlines Business Class

Avianca Airlines' business class focuses on delivering customer-centric courtesies to enhance the passenger experience. Passengers can experience more high-end services & access amenities with Avianca's business class, which varies depending on the route to America or Europe. When travelling through Avianca's business class, you may expect to enjoy the following services and amenities:

• An enhanced baggage allowance is provided, allowing passengers to carry additional baggage. 
• Priority services are provided to ensure a quick check-in, security, baggage handling, & boarding. 
• A specially curated menu consisting of scrumptious snacks, meals, and beverages on board. 
• Comfortable and wider seats with adjustable headrests and footrests are provided, with reclining.
• On journeys to Europe, passengers get access to a convertible bed and a more personal space. 
• Seatback screens are available to keep passengers hooked during the flight, with several options. 
• Free access to the airport's VIP lounges, which offer a perfect setting for relaxing before a flight.
• More Miles accumulation, allowing business class flyers to collect Miles with more ease. 
• Flex fares are changeable or refundable, allowing passengers to make the amendments they prefer. 

Avianca Airlines Flight Booking Procedure with Faresplanner

Have a surreal, unmatched flying experience with Faresplanner, offering a manageable flight booking experience through its easy-to-understand interface. Additionally, the platform serves as an ideal travel companion, especially for savvy travellers. The diligent, experienced customer service team at Faresplanner helps passengers find the most budget-friendly flights with ease. Though the procedure is easy, it has been broken down into simple steps below for better assistance with the procedure:

• Type "www.faresplanner.com" in your browser to access the official website of Faresplanner. 
• The flight booking will be selected by default, with all blanks filled in to find the best flights. 
• Provide the relevant details in their dedicated blanks to find the most suitable flight option. 
• Tap "Search" to find the most suitable available flight options based on your provided details. 
• Select a flight option that matches your expectations, and customise your itinerary with services. 
• To finalise bookings, make the payment for your flight through your preferred payment channel. 
• After payment confirmation, you will be notified by email and SMS. 

Avianca Airlines Change & Cancellation Policy

Avianca Airlines delivers a satisfactory experience for passengers, whether through its in-flight services or services beyond the cabin. The airline offers an attractive cancellation and change policy, including the rules governing requests for changes or cancellations. It is suggested that passengers familiarise themselves with these rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth experience when submitting any change requests. Hence, go through the highlighted pointers below:

• If intending to request a fare change or cancellation, consider doing so within 24 hours of purchase for flights scheduled to depart within 7 days. 
• The 24-hour cancellation rule applies only to the tickets that include no additional services such as baggage, seats, or preferred meals. 
• Beyond this 24-hour free cancellation, the airline would provide a refund, depending on the fare conditions of the purchased flight ticket. 
• When requesting changes or cancellations, airlines may apply additional charges that apply only to certain fares, including Basic, Light, Classic, and Business Classic. 
• After requesting the changes, if a fare difference arises between the original and new fares, it must be settled to finalise the changes. 
• Charges may apply to free fares, including flex fares and business-class flex fares, but any difference must be cleared before proceeding. 

Avianca Airlines Change & Cancellation Procedure

Requesting changes to your flight tickets is simple and can be done on Avianca Airlines' official website. You can make the changes in just a few clicks by following the simple, intuitive procedure provided ahead. Hence, follow the step-by-step guide provided below, through which you can easily request any changes in your itinerary:

• Browse "www.avianca.com" to access the official website of Avianca Airlines. 
• Click on "Your Booking" from the menu at the top of the website to proceed. 
• From the drop-down, select "Changes and refunds" to request amendments. 
• Click on "Manage your refund" beside "Flight changes", then select "Request your refund."
• Enter your booking details in their designated sections, then click "Continue."
• After retrieving your details, choose "Change or Cancellation" depending on your preference. 
• Follow the instructions below and make any changes to your fare. 

Avianca Airlines Loyalty Program

Avianca Airlines' loyalty program "Lifemiles" offers a great opportunity for passengers, granting members access to several perks and benefits. By joining the loyalty program, you can begin earning miles by making purchases with the airlines and their partners, and once you have enough miles, you can redeem them. Lifemiles also offers tiered benefits, including additional luggage, priority services, upgrades, and more. Additionally, these benefits will increase as members reach the next higher tier of the membership, which is:

• Red Plus
• Silver
• Gold 
• Diamond

How can you join the Avianca Airlines Loyalty Program?

Lifemiles is a free-to-enrol loyalty program that offers numerous benefits and perks, including the ability to collect Miles that can later be redeemed for rewards. To join Lifemiles, you have to visit the airline's official website and follow a few straightforward steps. To offer a better understanding of the procedure, follow the steps provided below:

• Head to the official website of Avianca Airlines at "www.avianca.com."
• Click on "Lifemiles" from the menu at the top of the website to proceed. 
• From the drop-down, click on "Lifemiles Program" to expand the page. 
• Click "Sign up" to access the Lifemiles joining form, and enter your details. 
• After filling it out, click "Submit" to finalise your request to join the program. 

Avianca Airlines Loyalty Program Benefits

Lifemiles is a generous loyalty program that offers valuable benefits beyond Miles accumulation and redemption. Members can access several perks and benefits that ensure a high-end in-flight experience for flyers, and more of them are unlocked as members reach the next higher tiers. Some of the most popular Lifemiles benefits are explained below to provide a better understanding of the benefits that can be accessed as a member of this program: 

• Seat Selection: Airlines usually charge for selecting your preferred seats; however, members of Lifemiles can select them at no additional charge. Thus, members can choose their seats to travel without paying any extra fees. 
• Lounge Access: As a member of Lifemiles, you can access the airport's luxurious lounges to unwind before your flight during departure or transit. Here, passengers can relax before their flights while enjoying the delicious meals, snacks, and beverages. 
• Upgrades: Complimentary upgrades are offered to passengers, allowing members to request a cabin upgrade to business class and enjoy its perks and benefits. These usually have certain requirements or conditions that determine how upgrades will be fulfilled. 
• Additional Baggage: Members can bring more baggage during their trip, whether in carry-on or checked baggage. The privilege to carry more begins with an allowance for one additional bag and unlocks additional bags as members reach the next higher tier. 
• Priority Services: To deliver exclusivity to its members, the airline offers priority services, including priority check-in, security, dedicated lanes, baggage handling, and boarding. These services save them enough time and help them avoid rush hour. 

Avianca Airlines Refund Policy

If a passenger no longer needs to fly with Avianca Airlines, they can request a cancellation and receive a refund in accordance with its refund policy. Avianca Airlines' policy ensures that passengers who meet the required criteria can receive an appropriate refund without any hassle. However, passengers must familiarise themselves with the criteria and rules governing these refund requests. Therefore, follow the breakdown of the Avianca Airlines refund policy explained through the pointers provided below: 

• Whether a refund will be initiated depends on the fare conditions, rules, and the type of flight purchased. 
• A full refund can be issued for any fare, regardless of type, if the request is made within 24 hours of purchase. 
• This 24-hour full refund, no cancellation fee applies only to bookings that do not include additional services purchased separately. 
• If any involuntary changes affect the ticket and you refuse to accept the arrangements, you can request a refund. 
• If refund requests are made after 24 hours, airlines may issue a refund, depending on the fare conditions, and may also apply charges. 

Avianca Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy

Passengers flying with Avianca Airlines can request an upgrade to the luxury cabins by purchasing it directly through the airline's website. By upgrading the seats, airlines can also enjoy the enhanced services and perks, elevating their overall in-flight experience. Hence, follow the following steps to know how you can request a seat upgrade with Avianca Airlines:

• Visit the official website of Avianca Airlines at "www.avianca.com"
• Click on "Your booking", and from the drop-down select "Manage your booking."
• Enter your booking details in the designated fields and click "Manage Booking."
• Tap "Upgrade" if your fare is eligible, then follow the instructions. 
• At last, click "Submit" and make the payment through your preferred payment channel. 

Avianca Airlines Name Change Policy

Incorrect names or typos can create hurdles to your smooth travel experience. However, Avianca addresses this by offering an informative name change policy that includes rules and guidelines for passengers to request name changes. Introduce yourself with the name change policy of Avianca Airlines and request changes as per it:

• Name changes on the reserved tickets are not permitted; therefore, passengers must check twice before entering any name details. 
• If a name correction is needed, passengers may request it up to 72 hours before the scheduled departure of the flight. 
• In cases where name changes occur for legal reasons, such as marriage, divorce, adoption, or gender change, they can be changed upon request. 
• If there are any typos, spelling mistakes, or name swaps, they can also be corrected by requesting a correction with the airline. 
• The airlines might also apply certain charges for requesting a name change, which are determined by the route and fare of the ticket. 

Avianca Airlines Group Booking 

If a group of travellers, consisting of ten or more companions, is travelling to the same location from the same airport, they can take advantage of this. Per Avianca Airlines' group booking policy, members can enjoy generous fares, more personalised services, and other attractive offers. Therefore, if thinking of booking a group travel with Avianca Airlines, consider following the steps provided below:

• Search "www.avianca.com" to head to the official Avianca Airlines' website. 
• Tap on "Offers and destinations" from the menu at the top of the website. 
• Click "Groups booking" in the drop-down to access the group travel page. 
• Scroll down, and under "Ready for group travel," click on "Book now."
• Provide the relevant details in their designated sections in the form. 
• Read the terms and guidelines, and then click on "Submit" to finalise. 

Get Last Minute Deals with Avianca Airlines

Securing last-minute deals with Avianca Airlines would help travellers make big savings on flight bookings, completing a vital checkpoint in their budget-friendly travelling. Though this may require a strategic blueprint, it will make securing these deals a breeze. Generally, last-minute deals are subject to demand and availability, yet by applying the following tips, you can increase the likelihood of securing a beneficial last-minute deal with Avianca Airlines:

• Joining the Loyalty Program: To secure a last-minute deal, passengers can consider joining the airline's loyalty program, which offers several noteworthy perks. These perks include additional baggage allowance, upgrades, exclusive services, and access to several deals and discounts. Therefore, securing last-minute flight deals becomes easy for passengers. 
• Subscribe to the Newsletter: The airline offers newsletters featuring updates, information, and other crucial news on flights, loyalty programs, route announcements, and promotional offers. With this information, passengers can stay prepared in advance and secure a great deal on their last-minute bookings. 
• Using Travel Vouchers / Coupons: Passengers can also use travel vouchers or coupons to make additional savings and take advantage of flight price offers. These coupons can sometimes be obtained as a refund from the airline when you make a payment or shop using a special payment method, such as a credit card, and also through newsletters. 
• Book during Shoulder/Off-seasons: Travelling when demand is low can make you pay less than usual, which is common during peak seasons. However, if you wait until the shoulder or off-season, the crowd becomes thinner due to lower demand, which also lowers prices. You can save more on every component, whether flight, accommodation, food, or transportation.

Avianca Airlines International Travel Rules

When travelling abroad, passengers are required to follow the rules and regulations of the nations they visit to maintain a secure travel environment. Each nation has distinct policies and rules that prevent immigration, maintain healthcare, and safeguard its own citizens. Hence, it is mandatory for passengers to refer to some of the essential international travel rules to ensure a convenient experience for themselves:

• Travellers going to another nation are required to possess all relevant documents for international travel, including a visa and a passport, a government-issued photo ID, and a health certificate if they have any medical conditions. These documents are validated to verify the identity and nationality of the passengers. 
• Adhere to baggage guidelines when travelling internationally, as exceeding the specified limit may result in charges or denial of boarding. Airlines usually offer more generous baggage guidelines, allowing passengers to pack generously and carry more, yet reviewing the guidelines would offer proper assistance. 
• Passengers must not bring any prohibited items on international flights, as they pose severe risks, including flight safety hazards, confiscation of goods, massive travel delays, hefty fines, and potential criminal prosecution or arrest. Violations may pose a threat to passengers and crew members, leading to strict legal actions. Hence, review the list and ensure you do not carry illegal goods. 
• Review the pet travel guidelines if you're flying internationally with your pets, as airlines impose them based on your destination country. As per these guidelines, you should know the allowed animal, their breed, size, weight, and health condition. They must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate, country-related permits, and more. 
• Consider arriving 2 to 3 hours early for an international flight, as the verification process may be more thorough than usual. By arriving early, you will buy yourself more time during lengthy document checks, strict security screening, customs, and baggage drop closures. This way, you will have ample time at the airport to clear the procedure and board without any rush. 

Cheapest Time & Date of Booking Avianca Airlines Flight 

Understanding demand is crucial for finding the cheapest time and date to book Avianca Airlines flights. The airline operates around 700 daily flights, which makes it a prominent and widely chosen airline, making it more challenging to find cheap tickets. However, if you consider making bookings in the middle of the week, including Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, the chances of scoring cheap flight tickets are higher. Additionally, you can apply a few more tips to increase your chances of securing the lowest time & date for reserving Avianca flights. Here is what you need to know about those tips:

• Book Red-Eye Flights: Red-eye flights are overnight flights that typically depart between 9 PM and 4 AM and arrive early at the destination. These flights offer daylight hours at the destination, lower prices, and more seating options. This allows passengers to fly comfortably, through their preferred choice, without going over budget. 
• Book in Advance: Booking flights earlier is generally cheaper, as airlines sell tickets in blocks and early-bird tickets are priced lower. Also, demand is lowest in the early times, driving prices down while offering more seating options, giving passengers the freedom to fly with the seat that suits them. 
• Book via OTA (Online Travel Agency): Consider using an OTA for flight bookings, as they offer a more manageable experience and the most competitive prices, prioritising passenger convenience. Therefore, booking in advance is generally a wise choice to make reservations. 
• Book during the Promotional Period: Another great move is to take advantage of the promotional period, when airlines run attractive deals, discounts, and offers to lure more traffic. This promotional period runs on special occasions, festivals, celebrations, and more. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Avianca Airlines (FAQs) 

Is alcohol allowed to be brought on an Avianca flight?

Yes, alcohol can be brought on board in carry-on luggage, provided it is less than 70% ABV and in 100ml containers. Also, the packaging should remain intact, and consumption of personal alcohol is prohibited. 

Does Avianca Airlines offer free Wi-Fi?

Avianca offers Wi-Fi on its flights, but it is not available on every flight and generally incurs an additional charge. 

Can I get complimentary meals on an Avianca flight?

Generally, you may expect complimentary meals on long-haul, international, or business-class flights to nourish each passenger.

Can expectant mothers travel on an Avianca flight?

Expectant mothers can fly conveniently with Avianca, though they must have a medical certificate issued within 10 days of the due date of the flight confirmation. This should state that the mother is fit to travel by plane. 

What items are prohibited on Avianca Airlines? 

The list of illegal items includes substances that may pose a threat to passengers and crew members, such as compressed gases, poisons, toxins, corrosives, sharp or blunt objects, explosives, firearms, and more. 

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