Avianca: The sun's right on your doorstep

Avianca Route Network and a Detailed Planning Reference for Travelers

When travelers begin planning international or regional journeys—especially within the Americas or between the Americas and Europe—Colombia-based Avianca Airlines often becomes a practical option within the Avianca route network. While the airline may not always be the first name travelers think of, it frequently appears during itinerary comparisons when schedules, connections, and travel conditions are carefully evaluated.

Avianca is commonly featured on comparison platforms such as VJS Travel due to its route reach, fare structure, and network logic rather than brand dominance alone. With service to more than 25 countries and over 160 routes, Avianca offers strong coverage across South America, North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and selected transatlantic destinations.

As a major Latin American carrier and a member of the Star Alliance, Avianca enables broader connectivity through partner airlines, making it a strong option for multi-leg international travel.

Booking Process and Why Fare Choice Matters

At first glance, booking an Avianca flight feels familiar—travel details are entered, and available flights are displayed much like other major airlines. The key decision point, however, lies in choosing the right fare.

Avianca offers multiple fare families on both regional and international routes, each with different rules related to seat selection, baggage allowance, refunds, and changes. These conditions vary significantly depending on the fare purchased.

Fare Types Explained

• Basic / Promo Fares: Usually non-refundable or refundable with high penalties and limited flexibility.
• Standard Fares: Changeable with a fee and typically include checked baggage.
• Flexible / Plus Fares: Offer greater flexibility, lower penalties, higher baggage allowance, and easier cancellations.

Because these differences can impact future costs and comfort, fare choice is often more important than the initial ticket price. VJS Travel allows users to compare fare rules side by side, helping travelers make more informed decisions when planning within the Avianca route network.

Seat Selection and How It Works

Seat selection on Avianca depends on fare type and cabin class. Seats can usually be selected during booking or at online check-in, which typically opens 24 hours before departure.

• Higher-tier or flexible fares often include free seat selection at booking.
• Lower fares may assign seats automatically or require a fee for advance selection.
• Preferred seating such as extra legroom or aisle/window seats may carry an additional charge.
• Families or passengers with special needs are advised to reserve seats early.

On international and long-haul flights, securing a preferred seat can significantly improve comfort. VJS Travel frequently highlights seat costs and availability when travelers compare options across the Avianca route network.

Cabin Experience on Different Routes

Avianca’s onboard experience varies by route and aircraft type, but generally focuses on practical comfort rather than luxury.

Regional and Short-Haul Flights

• Simple seating layouts.
• Limited or basic entertainment on selected aircraft.

Long-Haul International Flights

• Personal entertainment screens on most wide-body aircraft.
• Meal service based on flight duration and time of travel.
• Wi-Fi available on many aircraft (often for an additional fee).

Business Class offers enhanced dining, better recline, priority services, and increased privacy. Premium Economy cabins, where available, provide additional space and comfort. Avianca positions itself as a dependable carrier offering consistent service across its international network.

Baggage Rules and Why They Influence Fare Choice

Baggage allowance is a major factor when choosing an Avianca fare, as policies vary by fare family, route, and cabin class.

• Personal Item: One personal item that fits under the seat is allowed on all fares.
• Carry-On: One carry-on bag up to 10 kg (22 lb) is included in most Classic, Flex, and Business fares.
• Basic / Light Fares: Carry-on baggage is not included unless purchased separately.
• Checked Baggage: Classic and Flex fares include one checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lb).
• Business Class: Typically includes two checked bags up to 32 kg (70 lb) each.
• Overweight / Oversize: Additional charges apply if weight or size limits are exceeded.

Purchasing additional baggage in advance online is usually cheaper than paying at the airport. Travelers booking through VJS Travel can view baggage options and pricing while comparing fares.

Changes, Cancellations, and Airport Timing

Avianca’s change and cancellation policies depend heavily on fare type.

• Basic fares offer minimal flexibility and usually involve high change fees.
• Classic fares allow changes with a fee and possible fare difference.
• Flexible and Business fares often allow easier changes and refunds.
• No-show tickets typically result in ticket forfeiture.

Online and mobile check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure. Airport check-in counters may close well before departure on international routes, so early arrival is recommended.

Unaccompanied Minors and Advance Planning

Avianca offers Unaccompanied Minor services depending on the child’s age and routing. The service includes supervised check-in, boarding, and handover at the destination airport.

Parents or guardians must complete required documentation, book the service in advance, and ensure that an authorized adult with valid identification is present at arrival. Due to varying rules and fees, families are advised to plan well ahead of travel.

Where Avianca Fits in the Bigger Picture

Avianca is often chosen not purely for brand recognition, but because of its route efficiency, schedule options, and fare structure. Its extensive coverage across the Americas and connections to Europe make it a practical choice for multi-leg itineraries.

Platforms like VJS Travel allow travelers to compare Avianca alongside other international carriers, helping them select flights based on total travel logic rather than brand loyalty alone.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is booking the cheapest Avianca fare always the best choice?

Not necessarily. Lower fares often come with restrictions on baggage, seat selection, and changes.

Is seat selection important for long flights?

Yes. Seat selection improves comfort and convenience, especially on long-haul routes.

Can baggage fees be underestimated?

Yes. Baggage costs can increase significantly if not considered during booking.

How flexible are Avianca tickets for changes?

Flexibility depends on the fare type. Higher-tier fares usually offer more change and refund options.