Bogota-based Avianca—which reported load factors of nearly 90% in the third quarter on hub routes to Europe—plans to add a second daily Bogota-London Heathrow service if slots are available.
In addition, Avianca Holdings CEO Hernan Rincon told ATW the carrier is considering Zurich as the next destination in Europe because of its location in central Europe. He also said the airline is eyeing Rome and Paris.
In general, 3Q growth within the entire Avianca network in terms of ASKs reached 6.7% year-over-year (YOY); RPKs were up 6.8% YOY, driven mainly by strong demand on routes to North America and Europe.
Avianca, which launched Bogota-Munich services Nov. 19, expects around 67% of passengers on this route to connect to other Avianca destinations in Bogota. On flights to Munich, 33% of passengers connect within Europe and onto Asia.
The Star Alliance member predicts an 82% load factor from December-February on the new route. “Avianca will strengthen its codeshare agreement with Lufthansa in order to enhance our presence and connectivity in Europe,” Rincon said…
