Is Avianca A Good Airline?  Pros

1. Several Fare Classes

As of 2021, they offer customers a range of six flight classes to choose from.

Depending on your budget and preferences, travelers have the option of picking from their XS class all the way up to XXL. XS-M are economy class-like seats.

The farther up in size, the more comparable the seat to business class tickets and first class options on other airlines.

Each class offers various amenities like extra legroom, complimentary meals and beverages, Wi-Fi access, and a priority boarding pass.

So, you have the option to customize your journey based on your individual needs!

Unlike the budget airlines in America, Avianca Airlines has upgraded some of its fleet to include lay-flat seats.

Lay flat seats are available on their larger aircraft for a long flight. This means you have the option to fly in luxury on your budget, even in a short flight.

2. LifeMiles Program

If you’re a frequent flyer, Avianca is no different than other major airlines like United Airlines, Air Canada, and Delta when it comes to rewards for your travels.

You can earn up to seven LifeMiles per dollar spent when flying with them, along with extra bonus points for purchases made with their credit card offers.

The red, silver, gold, and diamond cards offer you miles when using them – meaning your travels can take you even farther than before.

You can also use transfer programs to convert your Marriott Rewards or Capital One points for LifeMiles.

Your points through Avianca can be used for cabin upgrades, additional services, business-class seats, and more.

So, in terms of rewarding you for your frequent travels, this is a big pro to choosing Avianca Airlines offers the best value.

3. The Largest Colombian Airline And Second Largest In Latin America

Avianca has made its mark on air travel in Latin America.  In 2022, they carried 24.6 million travelers over 187,000 flights across their routes in South America, Latin America, Europe, and beyond.

Despite a rough period coming out of the pandemic, they were still able to launch 21 new routes and plan to continue growing.

As the airline continues to grow in size, they are also expanding its destinations and fleet.

This news means you may start to see even more access to these low-cost international flights.

4. Second Oldest Airline In The World

With a remarkable 100+ year history, Avianca is the world’s second-oldest airline.

Founded in 1919 just after KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the proven veteran airline has adapted and evolved in order to survive a rapidly changing flight industry.

Known for its strong presence throughout Latin America, the carrier continues to live up to its reputation as an experienced global leader.

There’s something to be said about an airline with the ability to stand the tests of time.

With Avianca’s experience, you can be confident that you’re traveling with a reputable company.

5. Low-Cost Airline

If you’re considering a trip abroad, Avianca Airlines may be the perfect match for you.

With their low-cost fares and international options, and convenient check-in process, they make it easier to find affordable flights outside of your country.

We all know that flight costs can quickly pile up when planning an international trip.

It’s nice to have access to international budget-friendly rates.

For both leisure and business trips, Avianca is definitely worth looking into for cost savings on your next trip overseas!

From my personal experiences with Avianca, they have great rates that are hard to beat when compared to other large carriers.

For business-class passengers, better seats are secured for you.

6. Great For International Travel

Avianca is the perfect airline for budget travelers who want to explore outside of the United States.

There are definitely no frills to flying Avianca, but if you’re willing to make the sacrifice, Avianca offers some of the lowest ticket prices for international flights out there.

With tickets as low as $100 one way, you can find your way to Latin America or Europe at unbeatable prices.

Giving up those flight frills means extra money for experiences and souvenirs when you land!

For travelers with a limited budget, it’s time to start packing your things and book some money-saving flights and economy seats with Avianca.

7. High Safety Rating

When it comes to total safety, passenger comfort, and a secure boarding process, Avianca is an excellent choice.

As a 3-star airline, the airline is top-notch and puts the safety of its passengers first above all else.

You can fly peacefully knowing that Avianca has consistently proven itself in taking great care in ensuring Avianca flights are secure, having a 7/7 airline safety record and rating.

8. In-Flight Entertainment

Most Avianca planes now have an in-flight entertainment system. 

All you need is your own device – phone, tablet, or computer – and you’ll have access to a library of videos, games, and flight information.

Whether you like playing classic board games, watching comedies, or watching the flight tracker, Avianca’s in-flight entertainment options have got it all.

No need to stare out the window and wonder when your flight will end.

Enjoy the ride and take advantage of the in-flight entertainment Avianca now offers.

9. Flexible But Confusing Cancellation Policies

Changing or canceling your whole flight itinerary can be a hassle depending on your fare level, especially at the last minute can be a tough time.

Customers often find themselves dealing with complicated policies, as well as long wait times when they contact an Avianca agent for customer service.

Additionally, it may take some time to process refund requests and other necessary changes.

Understanding these policies may come with complications, and be difficult or confusing.

To be more certain about your flight, it is best to check their official website and visit their advertising policy page for more information.

It’s worth taking the time to research the rules and fees prior to booking so you can plan accordingly if you choose to fly Avianca.

10. Poor Reviews

According to reviews on Yelp, Trust Pilot, and BBB, Avianca Airlines consistently gets poor ratings that do not completely meet high international standards.

Many reviewers claim to have dealt with unprofessional cabin crew members, unclean facilities, and uncomfortable seats and flying experiences on the airline.

A term that comes up frequently is to fly Avianca “at your own risk”.  A few reviewers also mentioned that Spirit Airlines and JetBlue’s seats are more comfortable.

If flying in comfort is your priority, Avianca may not be the airline that best suits you.

With that said, the budget Latin American airline seems to have ruffled quite a few feathers in many different areas of service that can be an annoying thing mostly for all travelers.

11. Fewer Destination Options For U.S. Based Travelers

While the airline offers one of the best deals on international flights, they only have flights departure flights from airports in a limited number of US destinations: Fort Lauderdale, Miami, New York, Orlando, Los Angeles, Washington, and a few major cities for destinations.

Therefore, if you live in a different city or far from their departing cities, finding a flight that works for you might be challenging.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of their exceptional fares.

You may have to find your own flights to their more popular destinations like Bogota or Medellin and depart to your final destination from there.

12. Long Customer Service Hold Times

When deciding if “is Avianca is a good airline“, many people weigh their options carefully.

While choosing an inexpensive flight is hard to turn down, the low cost at Avianca seems to be matched with poor customer support and long wait times from the customer service department.

Customer feedback and reviews have reported unsatisfactory experiences, from long wait times on the phone, unreliable help at the airport, and long call center case review times.

In my dealings with Avianca, their customer service seems a bit unorganized and I had a couple of really long, frustrating phone conversations because I had to change my travel plans.

Because of these downfalls, fliers have found themselves unable to resolve their claims leaving them without refunds for long periods of time.

Knowing you may be on your own or out your ticket price could sway you in the opposite direction of this international airline carrier.

13. Meals No Longer Included In Fares

Starting December 1, 2022, Avianca began an in-flight service for snacks and meals.

So, unless you’re flying to Europe, you’ll have to purchase any snacks, meals, or drinks including a bottle of water during your flight.

On the bright side, they do offer an extensive menu of options to choose from.

They accept available credit cards from credit card companies such as Visa, American Express, and Mastercard in the air.

If you are flying their Los Angeles to Bogota route or flights from and to Europe, you will have a hot meal with an appetizer and dessert included in your fare.

They also have options for vegetarians and children.