Avianca Gains Approval to Operate New International Flights Between Colombia and Argentina

Published on July 1, 2025

Argentina’s Undersecretariat of Air Transport has officially granted Aerovías del Continente Americano S.A., the legal entity behind the Colombian airline Avianca, permission to operate scheduled international passenger and cargo flights between Bogotá and Córdoba. This approval was confirmed through Provision 20/2025, which was published on Monday in the Boletín Oficial, Argentina’s official gazette.

According to the official document, Avianca is now authorized to offer round-trip services with fourth freedom rights. This means that the airline can transport passengers and cargo between Colombia and Argentina without the need for intermediate or domestic traffic rights within Argentina. This development aligns with the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Argentina and Colombia, which was finalized on April 30 by the aviation authorities of both countries. The MoU outlines the framework for commercial air relations between Argentina and Colombia, ensuring that both nations are in agreement on aviation policies and routes.

The resolution also confirms that Avianca has been officially designated by Colombia’s aviation authority, meeting all the legal and administrative requirements laid out under Argentine regulations. This decision facilitates Avianca’s parent company in officially taking over the operations that were previously authorized for Avianca Ecuador. In fact, Avianca Ecuador had received approval in January to operate flights between Bogotá and Córdoba before the MoU was signed. The airline began operating this route on June 16, technically flying from Guayaquil to Bogotá and then continuing to Córdoba.

Avianca Ecuador was also granted permission to operate flights to other Argentine cities, such as Mendoza and Rosario. However, in a recent interview with Aviacionline, Avianca’s CEO Frederico Pedreira revealed that the launch of the Mendoza route is expected to take place before the Rosario route. This order of operations is likely influenced by market demand and logistical considerations.

The administrative resolution, which was signed by Undersecretary of Air Transport Hernán Adrián Gómez, also directs Argentina’s National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) to officially notify the relevant parties and oversee the implementation of this authorization. ANAC’s involvement is essential to ensure that Avianca adheres to all regulations and operational standards set by the Argentine government, and to maintain smooth cooperation between the two countries in managing international air traffic.

This development marks a significant step forward for Avianca, as the airline continues to expand its presence in the South American aviation market. The decision to operate flights between Bogotá and Córdoba will enhance connectivity between Colombia and Argentina, two key markets in the region. Córdoba, Argentina’s second-largest city, will benefit from direct air links to Bogotá, providing easier access for business and leisure travelers between the two countries. The introduction of cargo flights is expected to bolster trade relations, facilitating the movement of goods between Argentina and Colombia.

The approval for Avianca to operate these routes further strengthens the air transport partnership between Argentina and Colombia. The recent MoU signals a growing recognition of the importance of robust aviation ties to support economic and tourism activities between the two nations. As Argentina and Colombia continue to foster closer bilateral relations, air travel will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in enhancing collaboration in various sectors, from tourism to trade.

This move is also part of Avianca’s broader strategy to expand its network and reach new markets in Latin America. As one of the region’s largest carriers, Avianca has been actively working to strengthen its connectivity to major cities across South America, North America, and beyond. With this new authorization in hand, Avianca can now serve more destinations in Argentina, further solidifying its position as a key player in the Latin American aviation industry.

In conclusion, Argentina’s official approval of Avianca’s international flights between Bogotá and Córdoba reflects a significant development in the aviation landscape of South America. The decision not only facilitates direct connections between Colombia and Argentina but also highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in aviation. The expanded services, including passenger and cargo flights, will likely boost tourism, trade, and business activities between the two nations, contributing to the continued growth of the region’s air transport network.