Avianca is set to conclude 2024 with an impressive milestone: 38 million passengers, marking a 27% increase compared to 2019 and 19% growth over 2023. This achievement reflects the airline’s transformation into a hybrid model that combines low-cost efficiencies with premium services, allowing Avianca to capture a diverse and evolving passenger base while optimizing its operations.
A key factor in this growth has been the airline’s strategic expansion of its route network. Avianca will operate a network of 167 routes across more than 25 countries by year-end. In 2024 alone, the airline launched 24 new routes, adding vital connectivity for travelers across the Americas and Europe. The airline also introduced eight new destinations to its network, including Paris, Chicago, Montreal, Caracas, Aeroparque (Buenos Aires), La Habana, and domestic cities like Quibdó and Arauca. These additions further solidified Avianca’s reach while addressing rising demand in long-haul and regional markets.
The chart shows Colombia’s domestic traffic compared to peer markets.
In Colombia, one of Avianca’s most significant markets, the airline transported 19.3 million passengers this year. This represents a remarkable 32% increase compared to 2019 and 20% growth over 2023, reaffirming Colombia’s critical role in the airline’s operations and growth strategy.
Avianca has strategically leveraged bilateral agreements to optimize operations, exemplified by its newly launched Aeroparque-Bogotá route (AV154). These agreements, particularly those with Ecuador, allow Avianca to maximize connections while enhancing its competitive position in a rapidly expanding regional market.
The airline’s success lies in adopting a hybrid business model that balances cost efficiency with premium services. This shift began with Avianca embracing a low-cost model to ensure financial sustainability but evolved as the airline recognized the need for flexibility in a diverse market. By reintroducing Business Class on 34 intra-Americas routes, Avianca has successfully delivered premium services on single-aisle aircraft.
For example, the Buenos Aires-Bogotá route (AV154), operated by an Airbus A320neo, features a 3-3 seat configuration where the middle seat is blocked, creating more space and comfort for passengers. The airline also provides generous legroom, improved seat recline, and high-quality in-flight meals, including locally sourced products, further enhancing the travel experience.
Avianca’s premium offering extends to long-haul flights by introducing “Avianca Insignia” for routes to and from Europe. This premium product includes flatbed seats for enhanced comfort, gourmet menus curated by acclaimed chefs Álvaro Clavijo and Catalina Vélez, and sustainable amenity kits designed with the Gunadule community.
The airline has also refined its LifeMiles loyalty program to deliver more value to frequent flyers. All fare categories now allow passengers to accumulate miles, with additional bonuses for elite members. Improved qualification criteria make it easier for travelers to achieve elite status and enjoy exclusive benefits such as premium seating upgrades and complimentary executive cabin ascents on regional flights. The Club Concierge program offers enhanced perks for top-tier passengers, including lounge access, upgrade certificates for Europe and regional flights, and additional mile bonuses.
Avianca’s evolution into a hybrid carrier positions it alongside LATAM as one of the few airlines in Latin America with the scale and network strength to dominate the regional market. By combining the operational efficiency of a low-cost carrier with premium services that cater to high-value travelers, Avianca has effectively adapted to the evolving demands of the aviation industry.
With 38 million passengers transported in 2024, a growing premium product, and a strategic focus on network optimization, Avianca has demonstrated that it understands how to thrive in today’s complex market. The airline’s ability to innovate and adapt ensures its continued success as a key player in Latin America’s aviation sector.
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