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Second oldest continualy operating airline in the world! Founded as a joint enterprise of Colombina Germans and local businessmen. Hence the original its title Sociedad Colombo-Alemana de Transportes Aereos.
First flight was domestic between Bogota and Baranquilla, chief port of Colombia in 1921 and home of SCADTA. In June 1940 SCADTA merged with another Colombian operator, Servicio Aereo Colombiano and changed its name to Aerovias Nacionales de Colombia SA. At first, Avianca used German equipment (Junkers F-13 modified for high and hot conditions in Colombia)but that changed in the 1940's when DC-3's and DC-4's as well as Boeing 247 arrived. In 1947 first international flight was inaugurated to Balboa in Panama and later that year to Miami Florida. In 1950 flights to Europe were commenced on route to Hamburg and Madrid. Another significant equipment upgrade cami in 1951 when Lockheed Constellation arrived. First L-749 followed by the Super Connie L-1049.Pan American hold stake in the airline for most of its existence and helped Avianca to enter jet age. Avianca leased a 707 from Pan Am in 1960. In 1978 a Boeing 747 was delivered. Avianca bought out Pan Am's interest in late 70's.
Avianca has sizable international operations serving South America's capitals, Miami, New York, Los Angeles in the U.S. and Rome, Frankfurt, Paris and Madrid in Europe. Avianca also operates domestic flights.
Airline formed alliance in 1994 with regional carrier SAM Colombia and helicopter operator Helicol. SAM Colombia was fully integrated into Avianca system by 2004. The same year Avianca entered chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. German Efromovich (Synergy Group) owner of Brazil's OceanAir purchased ailing AVIANCA in 2004.
In October 2009 AVIANCA and TACA of Salvador announced merger. Under the terms of agreement, both airlines will retain their trademark. In July 2012 Avianca became member of Star Alliance. On May 10, 2020, Avianca filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in a court in New York City, and liquidated its subsidiary Avianca Peru.
founded - demised (age)
December 5 1919 - present (106years)
headquarters
Eldorado International Airport, Bogota
web
base airports
related operators
current /stored fleet (126)
