Avianca Airlines, a renowned airline with a rich history spanning over a century, is embarking on a transformative journey to adapt to the evolving aviation landscape domestically, regionally, and internationally. With a strategic shift in its market approach, Avianca with a minor “a”, aims to cater to the diverse needs of passengers, blending elements of both low-cost carriers (LCC) for local and regional flights, and legacy carriers for long-haul destinations across Europe, North America, and South America, primarily serviced by its B787 or Dreamliner fleet. In this article, we will explore the business passenger experience offered by Avianca amidst these strategic changes.

Local and regional flights: embracing the LCC model

For passengers traveling on local and regional routes, Avianca’s adoption of the low-cost carrier model brings a refreshing yet challenging change. The focus is on providing affordable fares without compromising safety or service quality. The ticket purchase process is streamlined, with three options for all requirements enhancing convenience for passengers of all types. Onboard, passengers can expect a comfortable experience with modern cabin interiors and ergonomic seating arrangements that depending on their location, may or may not recline. While amenities may be streamlined to align with the LCC model, passengers still receive attentive service from cabin crew members committed to ensuring a pleasant journey. Traditional snacks, beverages and food offered by the airline have changed to the LCC narrative that has been implemented in Europe for a while now. Today, it’s the passenger who decides to purchase his food and beverages. The variety of products on board and on the menu has been well thought for all types of preferences and needs. 

Avianca’s regional flights operated in its vast majority on their Airbus 319, 320 and 321 fleet, offers passengers the opportunity to explore nearby destinations such as Panama, El Salvador, Ecuador, Mexico, and the south of the United States to mention a few, with ease, whether for business or leisure. With a simplified booking process and competitive pricing, Avianca aims to make air travel accessible to a wider audience while maintaining its commitment to safety and reliability, as their current slogan states, the sky is for all. 

Long-haul flights: legacy comfort and luxury

For its traditional long-haul journeys to Europe, North America, and South America, Avianca’s legacy carrier status shines through. Passengers traveling on these routes are treated to a premium experience aboard Avianca’s Boeing 787 or Dreamliner fleet, renowned for its spacious cabins, advanced entertainment systems, and superior comfort.

The carriers long-haul flights prioritize passenger comfort and convenience, with amenities such as lie-flat seats in business class, gourmet dining options curated by renowned chefs, and personalized entertainment systems offering a vast array of movies, TV shows, music, on board Wi-Fi and connectivity. Moreover, Avianca’s Dreamliner fleet boasts state-of-the-art features designed to enhance the passenger experience, including larger windows, improved air quality, and reduced cabin noise, ensuring a restful journey for travelers crossing continents that want to do some work with ease and peace. The economy cabin on this aircraft offers screens, on board entertainment, ergonomic chairs that recline and food and beverage alternatives that are included among the different rates the airline sales. 

As Avianca continues to adapt to changing domestic, regional, and international market dynamics, passengers can expect a seamless and enjoyable travel experience, whether embarking on short-haul journeys within the region or undertaking long-haul flights across continents and oceans. By blending elements of both low-cost carriers and legacy carriers, Avianca aims to offer passengers the best of both worlds: affordability, convenience, and comfort. Their main challenge for sure will be that as travelers’ step on board Avianca’s aircraft, they embark not just on a journey to their destination, but also on a journey of discovery and exploration on a new business model that they are not acquainted, guided by an airline committed to excellence in passenger experience.

In conclusion, Avianca’s strategic approach to segmenting its services into LCC for local and regional flights and keep having its legacy carrier traditional service for long-haul journeys reflects its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of passengers and market. Whether flying short distances or embarking on transcontinental adventures, passengers can trust Avianca to deliver a memorable and enjoyable travel experience, characterized by affordability, comfort, and exceptional service. As Avianca continues to innovate and adapt, this national Colombian carrier remains a beacon of excellence in the global aviation industry, setting new standards for passenger experience in a changing market landscape.

By: Santiago Echeverri