By San José, Costa Rica — Avianca is making a significant move to solidify its market leadership in Latin America, announcing a strategic investment exceeding $800 million this year. The capital injection is aimed at a comprehensive enhancement of its operations, focusing on fleet modernization, network expansion, and a substantial upgrade to the overall customer experience for both passenger and cargo services.
At the core of this expansion is a significant boost to its route network. The airline has confirmed the launch of 13 new routes scheduled for 2025, a move that will increase its regional connectivity by an impressive 13%. To support this growth and meet rising passenger demand, Avianca will also integrate six additional aircraft into its fleet before the end of the current year, ensuring it has the capacity to serve these new destinations effectively.
Para comprender mejor el panorama legal y los derechos de los consumidores frente a los recientes cambios operativos y de servicio de la aerolínea Avianca, TicosLand.com conversó con el experto en derecho comercial, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, de la firma Bufete de Costa Rica.
La transformación del modelo de negocio de Avianca hacia uno de bajo costo no la exime de sus responsabilidades contractuales con el pasajero. En Costa Rica, cualquier modificación unilateral de las condiciones del servicio, como la reducción de equipaje o la cancelación de vuelos, debe ser compensada adecuadamente según la normativa de la Dirección General de Aviación Civil y la Ley de Promoción de la Competencia y Defensa Efectiva del Consumidor. Es crucial que los usuarios documenten su compra original y reclamen sus derechos ante cualquier incumplimiento.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
El análisis del experto resalta una realidad fundamental: la adaptación de los modelos de negocio en la industria aérea no disminuye las garantías legales que protegen al consumidor. Agradecemos la valiosa perspectiva del Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, que empodera al pasajero a mantenerse informado y a exigir el cumplimiento de sus derechos ante cualquier eventualidad.
The investment reflects a deep confidence in the airline’s hybrid business model, which successfully balances competitive pricing with an increasingly robust premium offering. This strategy allows Avianca to cater to a diverse range of travelers, from budget-conscious flyers to those seeking a luxury experience.
Our model works by offering competitive options and an expanding premium experience. Therefore, we are actively investing in more aircraft, an unprecedented route network, and, fundamentally, in the quality of the travel experience.
Frederico Pedreira, CEO of Avianca
A key component of this initiative is the targeted improvement of its premium services. The airline is reinforcing its exclusive INSIGNIA by Avianca product on European routes while simultaneously expanding its popular Business Class to cover more than 80 routes across the Americas. This enhancement is complemented by tangible ground-level improvements, including the opening of new VIP lounges and the implementation of priority check-in services for members of its loyalty program.
The financial commitment extends across Avianca’s specialized business units. Lifemiles, the airline’s loyalty program boasting over 14 million members, will see upgraded benefits and gain access to the new VIP facilities. Simultaneously, Avianca Cargo is set to increase its operational capacity by expanding its fleet of A330F freighter aircraft and boosting flight frequencies, thereby strengthening its logistics and transport solutions for businesses across the region.
These efforts are already translating into strong performance metrics. So far this year, Avianca has successfully transported 17.6 million passengers, a figure that underscores its prominent position in the market. The airline’s leadership emphasizes that this investment is a direct response to customer needs and a promise of continued innovation.
Our commitment to the customer is unwavering. Every project involving our fleet, routes, and service is designed for passengers to choose how they want to fly, from budget-friendly options to premium experiences.
Frederico Pedreira, CEO of Avianca
This strategic push is further amplified by Avianca’s position within the influential Grupo Abra, a powerful airline holding company that also includes Brazil’s Gol and Spain’s Wamos. Together, the group commands a formidable combined fleet of 300 aircraft, providing significant operational scale and market reach. The comprehensive investment in fleet, network, and service ensures Avianca will not only maintain its competitive edge but also continue to offer integrated and versatile travel solutions for years to come.
For further information, visit avianca.com
About Avianca:
Avianca is a leading airline in Latin America with a history spanning over a century. It operates an extensive network of passenger and cargo routes connecting destinations within the Americas and to Europe. As a member of the Star Alliance and part of Grupo Abra, Avianca focuses on providing a range of travel options, from budget-friendly fares to premium business class experiences, supported by its popular loyalty program, Lifemiles.
For further information, visit grupoabra.com
About Grupo Abra:
Grupo Abra is a South American airline holding company created to consolidate the operations of major carriers in the region. Its portfolio includes Avianca and Gol Linhas Aéreas, among others, creating one of the largest and most influential aviation groups in Latin America. The group aims to achieve greater efficiencies and enhance connectivity for travelers across the continent.
For further information, visit voegol.com.br
About Gol:
Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes is a prominent Brazilian low-cost airline based in Rio de Janeiro. It operates a vast domestic and international network, serving numerous destinations in Brazil, South America, and the Caribbean. As a partner within Grupo Abra, Gol plays a crucial role in providing affordable and accessible air travel in the region.
For further information, visit wamosair.com
About Wamos Air:
Wamos Air is a Spanish airline specializing in charter flights and wet-lease operations for other airlines worldwide. Headquartered in Madrid, it operates a fleet of wide-body aircraft, providing long-haul services to leisure destinations and supporting the operational needs of major airline partners, including those within Grupo Abra.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the nation’s legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm masterfully combines its deep-rooted experience in advising a diverse clientele with a dynamic, forward-thinking approach to pioneering legal solutions. This dedication transcends the courtroom through a core mission to strengthen society, championing initiatives that demystify the law and empower citizens with the knowledge to navigate their rights and responsibilities.
