Avianca Pilot Career Guide
One of the oldest airlines in the world, Avianca is a key carrier in the Americas with a hub in Bogota.
First Officer Salary
$35,000 - $70,000
Captain Salary
$90,000 - $160,000
Salary Progression
Year 1 FO
$38,000
Year 5 FO
$58,000
Year 10 Captain
$120,000
Year 20 Captain
$155,000
Bonuses & Perks
Productivity bonus based on block hours. Annual performance increment.
Retirement
Colombian pension fund (AFP) contributions as per local labor law.
Pilot Reviews & Ratings
Based on pilot forum data
Pros
- One of the world's oldest airlines with strong heritage
- Star Alliance membership offers global travel benefits
- Interesting routes across the Americas
- Bogota offers relatively affordable cost of living
- Fleet modernization with 787 and A320neo
Cons
- Pay well below international standards
- Post-bankruptcy restructuring reduced pilot benefits
- Colombian regulatory environment can be challenging
- Limited widebody flying opportunities
- Currency devaluation reduces international purchasing power
Fleet & Routes
| Aircraft | Count | Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Airbus A319/A320 | 68 | Domestic Colombia and regional |
| Airbus A321neo | 12 | Medium-haul Americas |
| Boeing 787-8 | 14 | International long-haul |
Interview & Selection Process
Application through Avianca pilot recruitment
Document verification (Colombian DGAC license or validation)
Technical assessment and aeronautical knowledge test
Interview with training department and HR
Simulator evaluation on Airbus A320
Medical and background verification
Pilot Lifestyle
Work Schedule
Typically 80-85 block hours/month. Mix of domestic Colombian routes and international flights to the Americas and Europe.
Home Base
Bogota (BOG) is the primary base. San Salvador (SAL) is the Central American hub.
Travel Benefits
Standby travel on Avianca and Star Alliance partners. Staff fares on regional affiliates.
Commutable?
Limited — may require relocation
Hubs & Pilot Bases
Main Hubs
Pilot Bases
Cadet Program
Avianca Pilot Academy
Training program in partnership with approved Colombian flight schools providing a pathway to Avianca's flight deck.
Union & Representation
Pilots at Avianca are represented by ACDAC (Asociación Colombiana de Aviadores Civiles).
Latest Developments
Avianca emerged from Chapter 11 in 2022 with Abra Group (merged holding with GOL)
Fleet renewal with A320neo family orders to replace aging narrowbody aircraft
Hub strategy refocused on Bogota and San Salvador as dual-hub Americas operation
Pilot Requirements
DGAC ATPL or equivalent
1,500+ hours total
Class 1 medical
Spanish proficiency
Colombian work authorization or cadet program
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