LAN Colombia announced that it will begin flying directly between Bogota and Miami starting February 1, 2012. The new route is part of the network of destinations offered by LAN and will be operated by LAN Colombia, the newly launched affiliate of LAN Airlines in that country.

The new route will have seven weekly flights between Bogota and Miami. This will also improve connections in South America, adding another route to the extensive network of destinations that LAN offers through its affiliates and partnerships. In addition, increasing the arrival of more foreign visitors to Colombia.

"Our mission is to provide the best travel experience for our passengers, offering them attractive destinations and better connections throughout the world. In this sense, we hope this new route will improve connectivity between Colombia and the United States and create better access to the interior of each of these, providing air connections and therefore promoting trade and tourism," said Nicholas Cortázar, Director LAN Colombia.

This route replaces the one currently covered by LAN Colombia between Bogota and Fort Lauderdale. By the same token, those passengers who have already purchased airline tickets from Bogota to Fort Lauderdale with a travel date after February 1 will have the option to return from Miami or the right to reimbursement of their tickets.

LAN Colombia

A year ago, LAN announced the final purchase of 98.942% of the shares in the Colombian airline AIRES. The airline has since implemented operational changes, such as modifications to flight schedules, improving efficiency and ensuring that safety standards, and on-time performance, consistent with LAN’s standards. LAN Colombia has a workforce of 1,750, 23% of domestic market share, and offers the best network of domestic flights within the country with a fleet of 26 aircraft.

Since the acquisition of AIRES, LAN has invested US$405 million in the implementation of LAN operational standards, rebranding, as well as fleet updates and expansion, including the incorporation of three new Airbus A320 aircraft.

In addition to its international route to Miami, LAN Colombia currently offers 22 destinations within the country, including San Andres, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Cartagena, Bucaramanga, Cali, Bogotá, Yopal, Villavicencio, Neiva, Puerto Asis Leticia, among others.