When traveling with Avianca Airlines, it’s crucial to be familiar with their baggage policies to avoid extra fees and issues at the airport.
This comprehensive guide details the rules and fees related to personal items, carry-on luggage, and checked bags. It also explains how Avianca’s elite status can help you bypass certain fees while flying.
Avianca Airlines baggage policies
Avianca Airlines’ baggage policies depend on the type of bags you carry, their size and weight, and your elite status.
As of February 1, 2024, Avianca has updated its flight options and fare benefits, impacting your baggage allowance. Be aware of these changes to avoid unexpected fees and ensure you know what’s included with your ticket.
Baggage inclusions by fare type
With the updated Avianca flight classes, your baggage allowance varies based on your fare type and destination. The airline has distinct policies for flights within the Americas (excluding Brazil) and for flights to and from Europe or originating in Brazil.
Avianca personal item policy
All of Avianca Airlines’ fares include a free personal item, so there are no additional baggage fees for these items. However, the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and adhere to the maximum dimensions of 18 x 14 x 10 inches (45 x 35 x 25 centimeters).
Avianca carry-on bag policy
Many travelers opt to bring their bags on board and use the overhead bins rather than checking them. All Avianca fares, except for Basic, include a free carry-on bag.
Your carry-on bag must not exceed 22 pounds (10 kilograms) in weight and should have maximum dimensions of 22 x 14 x 10 inches (55 x 35 x 25 centimeters), including wheels and handles. Bags that do not meet these requirements must be checked in.
Avianca Airlines checked bag policy
When flying with Avianca Airlines, the checked bag policy permits luggage up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) in economy class and 70 pounds (32 kilograms) in business class. The maximum dimensions for checked bags are 62.2 inches (158 centimeters), which includes the length, width, and height combined.
One checked bag is included with Classic, Flex, or Business fares. If you need additional checked baggage, Avianca’s fees are lowest when purchased online through Avianca.com.
You can buy extra baggage allowance at the time of ticket purchase, by managing your reservation online, or during online check-in. Additional fees may also be paid at the airport.
To determine the cost of checked baggage, use the Avianca Airlines baggage fees calculator by entering your departure and arrival airports, flight date, and LifeMiles status level.
Sports equipment
Starting February 1, 2024, Avianca passengers can use their first checked bag allowance for eligible sports equipment if it adheres to the weight and dimension limits. Eligible items include:
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Ski equipment.
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Hang-glider.
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Surf equipment.
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Diving equipment.
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Golf or polo equipment.
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Bicycle.
If your sports equipment exceeds the allowed weight or dimensions, you will incur additional fees based on whether your flight is domestic or international. Online payments receive a discount compared to paying at the airport.
Additional checked bags
Avianca Airlines travelers sometimes need to bring extra bags. During peak season, travelers can check up to three additional bags. In the low season, on certain routes, passengers may check up to a fifth additional bag, but any extra bags beyond the third are subject to space availability.
Fees for additional checked bags vary based on your departure and arrival airports, travel dates, and elite status. To estimate the cost of an extra bag, use the Avianca Airlines baggage fees calculator.
Oversized and overweight baggage rates
Avianca Airlines baggage policies impose extra fees for bags that exceed weight limits or size restrictions. The fees and limits differ based on whether the flight is domestic within Colombia or Ecuador or international.
Dimensions allowed
Bags are classified as overweight if they exceed 50 pounds in economy or 70 pounds in business class. Over 62.2 linear inches (158 centimeters) in size are considered too large.
Bags exceeding 99 pounds or 90.5 linear inches (230 centimeters) cannot be carried. For larger items, consider shipping them via Avianca Cargo.
Conclusion
Avianca Airlines offers various fare levels, each with different baggage allowances. The airline’s fees and policies depend on:
- Ticket type
- Departure and arrival cities
- Bag weight and dimensions
- Elite status
Additionally, the number of extra bags you can bring varies based on your flight’s timing and route. Understanding Avianca’s baggage policies is crucial to avoid unexpected fees or issues. To save on baggage fees, purchase allowances online at least 48 hours before departure.