Is Avianca a Good Airline? A Comprehensive Review

June 01, 2025

Avianca, the flagship carrier of Colombia, has been a significant player in Latin American aviation for over a century. As travelers seek reliable and comfortable flight options, the question arises: Is Avianca a good airline? This comprehensive review delves into various aspects of Avianca's services, including safety, customer experience, fleet, and more, to provide a well-rounded perspective.

🛫 Overview of Avianca

Founded in 1919 as SCADTA (Sociedad Colombo-Alemana de Transportes Aéreos), Avianca is one of the oldest airlines in the world. Headquartered in Bogotá, Colombia, it operates an extensive network covering Latin America, North America, Europe, and select destinations in Asia. Avianca is a member of the Star Alliance, enhancing its global connectivity.Skytrax

✈️ Safety Record

Safety is paramount in the airline industry. Avianca has experienced several notable incidents in its history:

Avianca Flight 011 (1983): A Boeing 747 crashed near Madrid due to navigational errors, resulting in 181 fatalities.
Avianca Flight 052 (1990): A Boeing 707 ran out of fuel and crashed in New York, leading to 73 deaths.
Avianca Flight 203 (1989): A bombing over Colombia caused the deaths of all 107 people on board.
Avianca Flight 671 (1960): A Lockheed Constellation crashed during landing in Jamaica, resulting in 37 deaths.

Despite these tragic events, Avianca has made significant strides in improving its safety protocols. As of September 2024, it holds a 7/7 safety rating from AirlineRatings.com, indicating a strong commitment to safety.

🛬 Fleet and In-Flight Experience

Avianca's fleet comprises modern aircraft, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A320 family planes. These aircraft are equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi, in-flight entertainment, and comfortable seating. The airline offers both Economy and Business classes, with Business class providing enhanced services like priority boarding and access to lounges.

🌐 Network and Connectivity

Avianca's extensive network connects major cities across Latin America, North America, and Europe. Its membership in the Star Alliance allows passengers to access a broader range of destinations and benefits, such as shared lounges and mileage accrual across partner airlines.

💺 Customer Experience

Customer experiences with Avianca vary:

Positive Feedback: Some passengers commend the airline for its punctuality and comfort, especially on long-haul flights.
Negative Feedback: Others report issues such as delayed baggage delivery, unresponsive customer service, and inconsistent in-flight services. Airline Quality

These mixed reviews suggest that while Avianca offers quality services, there are areas for improvement in customer service consistency.

💰 Value for Money

Avianca positions itself as a full-service airline, offering amenities that justify its pricing. However, some travelers feel that the value proposition has diminished, especially with the rise of low-cost carriers in the region. It's advisable to compare Avianca's offerings with other airlines to determine the best value for your specific route and needs.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

Avianca has received various accolades over the years:

Skytrax Rating: Certified as a 3-Star Airline, indicating a good quality of service and product. Skytrax
AirlineRatings.com: Achieved a 7/7 safety rating, reflecting its commitment to safety standards. Airline Ratings

🧭 Conclusion

Avianca is a reputable airline with a rich history and a broad network. While it has faced challenges in the past, it continues to evolve and improve its services. Travelers considering Avianca should weigh its offerings against personal preferences and requirements. For those prioritizing safety and connectivity, Avianca remains a strong contender in the Latin American aviation market.

📌 Final Verdict

Is Avianca a good airline? Yes, with considerations. It offers a solid safety record, extensive network, and competitive services. However, potential passengers should be aware of varying customer service experiences and assess whether the airline's offerings align with their travel needs and expectations.

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