Avianca Airlines guide: booking flights, LifeMiles rewards, baggage policies, routes, and insider tips for smart travelers in 2026.

Introduction: What You Need to Know About Avianca

Booked a cheap flight to Colombia, then got hit with unexpected baggage fees and confusing connection times? You’re not alone.

Avianca is Latin America’s second-oldest airline and a Star Alliance member operating 150+ routes across the Americas and Europe. Most travelers book without understanding the airline’s dual-hub system, fare restrictions, or how to maximize the LifeMiles program.

You’ll learn:

• How Avianca’s route network works (and why layovers matter)
• Baggage rules and hidden fees to avoid
• LifeMiles strategies for free flights
• What to expect onboard
• When Avianca is your best option

Avianca’s Network: The Hub System Explained

Two Main Hubs

Bogotá (BOG) and San Salvador (SAL) are Avianca’s primary hubs. SAL connections often cost $100-200 less than alternatives but add 2-4 hours to your trip.

Pro tip: Choose SAL layovers of 3+ hours for lounge access without stress.

Where Avianca Flies Best

Strong routes:

• Colombia domestic (Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Cali)
• Central America (San Salvador, Guatemala City, San José)
• North America (Miami, New York, Los Angeles)
• Europe (Madrid, Barcelona)

Use Avianca for: Colombia travel, Central-South America connections, Star Alliance awards.

Skip for: Direct long-haul from U.S. to southern South America (LATAM/Copa often better).

Critical: North-South America “Basic” fares may include NO checked bags. Verify before booking. Pre-paid baggage ($30) beats airport fees ($75+).

LifeMiles: Your Award Travel Advantage

Why LifeMiles Matters

Key benefits:

• No fuel surcharges on most Star Alliance partners
• Regular transfer bonuses from credit cards
• Promotional sales (buy miles with 100-150% bonuses)
• Free stopover on award tickets

The trick: LifeMiles works better for booking United/Lufthansa flights than Avianca’s own planes.

Best Ways to Earn

• Credit card transfers: Citi ThankYou, Capital One (wait for 15-20% bonuses)
• Buy miles promotions: 4-6 times yearly, effective cost ~1.3 cents per mile
• Fly partners: United/Copa earn more miles than Avianca flights

Top Redemptions

• United domestic first: 15,000-25,000 miles
• Business to Europe: 63,000-87,000 miles (book partners, avoid Lufthansa surcharges)
• ANA business to Japan: 75,000-90,000 miles

Beginner tip: Save LifeMiles for long-haul business class worth $2,000+. Don’t waste on short economy flights.

Baggage & Fees: What Actually Costs Extra

Standard Allowances

Economy (regular fare):

• 1 checked bag (23kg/50 lbs)
• Carry-on (10kg) + personal item
• 2nd bag: $30-120
• Overweight (23-32kg): $50-100

Business: 2 bags (32kg each)

Star Alliance Gold: Extra bag free

Hidden Fees

• Seat selection: $15-40 for advance, $30-80 for extra legroom
• Changes: $100-200 + fare difference even on “flex” fares
• Sports equipment: $100-150 each way (surfboards, bikes, golf clubs)

Onboard Experience: Reality Check

Short Flights (Under 3 Hours)

• Light meal or snack (sandwich, chips)
• Free beverages including alcohol
• Streaming entertainment via app (download first)
• Seat pitch: 30-32 inches

Reality: Serviceable but basic. Similar to most Latin carriers.

Long-Haul International

Economy:

• Hot meal with two choices
• Seatback entertainment
• Basic amenity kit
• WiFi available (paid, slow)

Business (787 routes):

• Lie-flat seats (1-2-1 config)
• Multi-course meals
• Lounge access
• Competitive product for the price

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Wrong Aircraft Expectations

Check plane type before booking. A319 vs. 787 = completely different experience.

2. Tight Bogotá Connections

BOG requires immigration/customs even on same ticket.

• Minimum: International-to-international: 2 hours
• Peak seasons: Add extra time

3. Customer Service Expectations

Phone wait times exceed 60 minutes. Use online tools or U.S. number (800-284-2622) for English support.

FAQ

Is Avianca safe?
Yes. Full IOSA certification, modern fleet (787s, A320neos).

Can I use tickets on other Star Alliance airlines?
Only if booked as codeshare/alliance connection.

What if my flight’s cancelled?
Rebooking on next flight or refund. Hotels not guaranteed for weather. Get travel insurance.

When should I book?
Awards: 330+ days out. Cash fares: 6-12 weeks for South America, 8-16 weeks transatlantic.

When to Choose Avianca

✅ Best for:

• Colombia domestic travel
• Central-South America connections
• Using LifeMiles/Star Alliance miles
• Star Alliance elite members
• Promotional fares significantly cheaper

❌ Consider alternatives:

• Premium business class experience (Copa 737 MAX 9, LATAM 787)
• Exceptional customer service needs
• Better schedules on specific routes

Bottom line: Solid value for informed travelers who understand the system and leverage LifeMiles.