Avianca has received the Aequales Certification for the first time, making it the only airline in Latin America to earn this recognition for its policies, processes, and initiatives promoting equity and inclusion.
The certification, awarded by Aequales, a leading regional consultancy, reflects the airline’s commitment to building an organizational culture where all employees feel respected, valued, and authentic, while fostering talent development under equal opportunity conditions.
Initiatives supporting this recognition:
- Parity in executive positions: Currently, 48% of Avianca’s executive roles are held by women.
- More female pilots in the airline industry: In 2023, Avianca graduated its first all-female pilot course in the company’s history and launched the fully funded “The Sky is Hers” scholarship program, offering 20 spots and job opportunities at the airline. Today, more than 150 women pilots are part of the company.
- Workplace diversity and inclusion: Partnerships such as with Best Buddies allow people with cognitive disabilities to work in customer service, Avianca Cargo, and Deprisa.
- Pay equity: The company uses the Hay Group methodology to ensure compensation is based on job responsibilities, not gender.
- Comprehensive well-being: Programs like Well, Families Onboard, and Day Care provide support for physical, mental, and financial health, maternity and paternity assistance, lactation rooms, and prevention of gender-based and domestic violence.
- Accessibility: Through Avianca Accessible, the company implements protocols, training, and infrastructure improvements to guarantee inclusive travel experiences for people with disabilities.
“Being the first airline in Latin America to receive Aequales certification confirms that at Avianca we continue to build a culture where every person feels welcomed, heard, and valued. This certification reflects our commitment to an ongoing process of creating spaces where everyone can be authentic, grow, and give their best. When companies care for and listen to their employees, we soar higher and open opportunities for all,” said Maria Carolina Cortés, vice president of corporate communications and reputation at Avianca.
