Advancing a new business strategy adapted to the global trend to offer more affordable fares. Avianca announces that all of its domestic flights in Colombia will be operated with single cabin aircraft, which will have different seating configurations.
The Colombian airline will now offer a simpler fare scheme (XS, S, M and L) for flights starting October 20, 2021, this will allow customers to pay for the services they actually need predetermined in each fare, including the seat.
«We are determined to get more people to fly with us and for that to happen we need to offer the best prices in the market, as well as a more customizable service. With the four fare families XS, S, M and L travelers will have the possibility to choose their flying experience and will also be able to select additional services. Our XS fare will offer even better prices and all complementary services will be optional, while the L fare includes carry-on and checked baggage, the possibility of changes, increased mileage accrual and access to any available seat at check-in. Thus, all our customers will be able to decide which type of service they want to purchase. Similar to a fast food restaurant: if you want the combo, you order and pay for it, but if you only want fries and soda, you order and pay for that,» explained Manuel Ambriz, Chief Commercial Officer.
The process of reconfiguring the cabin of its aircraft will be completed by mid 2022, the airline mentions that they will maintain different types of seats, similar to some international operators that offer the product «economy plus» which offers an extra recline, a wider seat and additional services.
Avianca currently received two Airbus A320ceo (HK-5335 and HK5319) under lease with the new configuration while waiting to incorporate additional aircraft that previously belonged to VIVA and Interjet, the new seats do not already have built-in entertainment screens. Airlines such as American Airlines in their new aircraft such as Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Airbus A321neo no longer include these screens, giving the customer the option of using WiFi in the aircraft.
Avianca is adapting to the global trends of some leading European airlines such as Lufthansa or Swiss, offering its corporate customers on short-haul flights the option of accessing Avianca Lounge lounges, earning miles through its LifeMiles frequent flyer program and Star Alliance membership.
