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Avianca vs LATAM Airlines

A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Avianca (AV) and LATAM Airlines (LA) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Avianca
LATAM Airlines
Country
Colombia
Chile
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
AV
LA
Regulatory Authority
DGAC
DGAC
First Officer Salary
$35,000 - $70,000
$40,000 - $80,000
Captain Salary
$90,000 - $160,000
$100,000 - $180,000
Fleet
Airbus A319/320/321/330, Boeing 787
Airbus A319/320/321, Boeing 767/777/787

Requirements Comparison

Avianca

  • DGAC ATPL or equivalent
  • 1,500+ hours total
  • Class 1 medical
  • Spanish proficiency
  • Colombian work authorization or cadet program

LATAM Airlines

  • DGAC ATPL or ICAO equivalent
  • 1,500+ hours total
  • Class 1 medical
  • Spanish and/or Portuguese proficiency

Pros & Cons

Avianca

Pros

  • +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
  • +Cadet program available

Cons

  • Lower starting FO salary compared to US/Gulf carriers

LATAM Airlines

Pros

  • +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
  • +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed

About Each Airline

Avianca

One of the oldest airlines in the world, Avianca is a key carrier in the Americas with a hub in Bogota.

Full Avianca career guide →

LATAM Airlines

Latin America's largest airline group, LATAM operates across South America with international routes to North America, Europe, and Oceania.

Full LATAM Airlines career guide →

Calculate Your Salary

Model your earning potential at Avianca or LATAM Airlines based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.

Salary Calculator

Test Your Knowledge

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Practice Quiz