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How to Fly To and from Colombia: A Complete Guide Colombiafrank

Airplane on landing strip in Colombia

Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!

Exploring Colombia is a unique experience. If you’re interested in getting to know this amazing country, we can help you discover the ideal flight options for your trip, whether it’s within Colombia or to and from abroad.

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National and International Flights in Colombia

There are some airports in Colombia and their national and international flights.

Bogotá, Distrito Capital, El Dorado International Airport, BOG

International Flights

National Flights

Medellín / Rionegro, Antioquia, José María Córdova International Airport, MDE

International Flights

National Flights

Cartagena, Bolívar, Rafael Núñez International Airport, CTG

International Flights

National Flights

Cali / Palmira, Valle del Cauca, Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, CLO

International Flights

National Flights

Armenia / La Tebaida, Quindío, El Edén International Airport, AXM 

International Flights

  • Fort Lauderdale – Spirit

    National Flights

    Barranquilla / Soledad, Atlántico, Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, BAQ 

    International Flights

    National Flights

    Bucaramanga / Lebrija, Santander, Palonegro International Airport, BGA 

    International Flights

    National Flights

    Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, Camilo Daza International Airport, CUC 

    National Flights

    Leticia, Amazonas, Alfredo Vásquez Cobo International Airport, LET 

    National Flights

    Manizales, Caldas, La Nubia Airport, MZL 

    National Flights

    Medellín, Antioquia, Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport, EOH 

    National Flights

    Pasto / Chachagüí, Nariño, Antonio Nariño Airport, PSO 

    National Flights

    Pereira, Risaralda, Matecaña International Airport, PEI 

    International Flights

    National Flights

    Popayán, Cauca, Guillermo León Valencia Airport, PPN 

    National Flights

    Quibdó, Chocó, El Caraño Airport, UIB 

    National Flights

    Riohacha, La Guajira, Almirante Padilla Airport, RCH 

    National Flights

    San Andrés, San Andrés y Providencia, Gustavo Rojas Pinilla InternationaAirport, ADZ 

    National Flights

    Santa Marta, Magdalena, Simón Bolívar International Airport, SMR 

    National Flights

    Valledupar, Cesar, Alfonso López Pumarejo Airport, VUP 

    National Flights

    Villavicencio, Meta, Vanguardia Airport, VVC 

    National Flights

    Yopal (El Yopal), Casanare, El Alcaraván Airport (El Yopal Airport), EYP 

    National Flights

    How to Book your Flight To or From Colombia?

    Below, you can find a list with the best airline fares for your next visit to Colombia:

    International Airlines

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR AIR CANADA

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR AMERICAN AIRLINES

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR COPA AIRLINES

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR KLM 

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR AIR EUROPA

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR AIR FRANCE

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR SPRIT

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR IBERIA

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR JETBLUE

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR AVIANCA

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR LATAM

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR WINGO

    National Airlines

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR AVIANCA

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR LATAM

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR WINGO

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR SATENA

    CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST RATES FOR CLIC

    Requirements for International Flights to Colombia

    If you are planning to visit Colombia from another country, you need to be aware of the current entry requirements for international travelers. These requirements may vary depending on your nationality, vaccination status, and travel history. Here are some general guidelines to help you prepare for your trip:

    Arrival at the Airport

    Something important to keep in mind before your trip, is that the access to the airport will be a maximum of 3 hours before the departure of the flight. This in order to avoid crowds at the air terminal.

    Check-MIG form

    Every traveler, regardless of age and vaccination status, entering Colombia needs to complete a Check-MIG form between 24 hours and 1 hour before the planned departure.

    ¿What is it? The Check-MIG form is an online application that collects information about your health and travel history.

    You can access the Check-MIG form here. You will receive a confirmation email with a QR code that you must show to the immigration authorities upon arrival in Colombia.

    Visa

    Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa to enter Colombia. Citizens of the EU countries and 75 non-EU countries can travel to Colombia without a visa if the planned stay is up to 3 months.

    Some countries, however, need to obtain a visa before departure. You can check the visa requirements for your country here. If you need a visa, you must apply at the nearest Colombian consulate or embassy in your country of residence.

    Travel document

    You must have a valid passport or ID (depending on your nationality) that is valid at the time of entry and for the duration of your stay in Colombia.

    You must also have at least one blank page in your passport for the entry stamp unless you are enrolled in Migración Automática, a program for frequent travelers.

    Requirements for International Flights from Colombia

    The following requirements apply to international flights from Colombia:

    Check-Mig

    All travelers must complete the Check-Mig form online within 72 hours of their flight. This form is available on the Migración Colombia website.

    Documentation

    Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa for international flights from Colombia, and also your passport.

    You will present all these documents to the authorities at the airport. Citizens of the EU countries and 75 non-EU countries can travel to Colombia without a visa if the planned stay is up to 3 months. Some countries, however, need to obtain a visa before departure. 

    In addition to these requirements, you may also be asked to present your passport, visa, and proof of onward travel.

    FAQs for Colombian Citizens

    Requirements for domestic flights within Colombia

    If you are planning to fly domestically within Colombia, there are a few requirements you will need to meet in order to board your flight. These requirements include:

    • A valid national identity document: This can be your Colombian passport, cédula de ciudadanía, or cédula de extranjería. If you do not have a Colombian national identity document, you may be able to use your passport from another country.
    • A valid boarding pass. 

    In addition to these requirements, there are a few other things you should keep in mind when flying domestically within Colombia. These include:

    • Check-in time: You should check in for your flight at least 1 hour before departure. If you are checking in online, you should do so at least 24 hours before departure.
    • Baggage restrictions: There are restrictions on the amount of baggage you can bring on a domestic flight within Colombia. You can usually bring one carry-on bag and one checked bag.
    • Security: You will need to go through security before boarding your flight. This includes having your luggage checked and your person screened.

    Overview of the Aviation Industry in Colombia

    Remarkable Post-COVID Recovery: As of early 2023, Colombia’s aviation industry has shown impressive growth. The Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil) highlights that the country is now a regional leader in terms of flights.

    Challenges Ahead: Recently, the value-added tax on airline tickets was reintroduced, and two low-cost airlines ceased operations, significantly impacting 28.9% of the domestic market. Despite this, the industry is proactively seeking solutions to these challenges.

    In the first quarter of the year, Aerocivil reported a 5.4% decline in domestic flights compared to 2022. However, international flights saw a notable increase of 30.9%, reflecting strong interest and growth in international travel.

    Colombian Airports

    El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá is Colombia’s main air transport hub. In 2023, it was recognized as the best airport in South America by the Skytrax World Airport Awards for the second consecutive year.

    Additionally, it ranks as the fourth best airport globally, with a passenger flow of 30 to 40 million in 2022 alone.

    Colombia also boasts other significant international airports, including:

    • José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Medellín
    • Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) in Cali
    • Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) in Cartagena
    • Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ) in Barranquilla
    • Matecaña International Airport (PEI) in Pereira
    • Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) on San Andrés Island
    • Alfredo Vásquez Cobo International Airport (LET) in Leticia
    • Palonegro International Airport (BGA) in Bucaramanga
    • Camilo Daza International Airport (CUC) in Cúcuta
    • Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR) in Santa Marta
    • Los Garzones International Airport (MTR) in Montería
    • Almirante Padilla International Airport (SKRH) in Riohacha
    • El Edén International Airport (AXM) in Armenia

    The Future of Colombian Aviation

    Expansion in Latin America: According to Airbus, Latin America is expected to need 2,685 new aircraft by 2038, with an annual growth rate of 4.3%. This growth rate surpasses that of North America and Europe. Impressive, right?

    As for Colombia, thanks to its:

    • Strategic location
    • State-of-the-art infrastructure
    • Skilled workforce

    Colombia is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing demand. Moreover, the country’s favorable business environment and capacity to handle diverse aircraft make it a crucial hub for cargo and passenger transport in the region.

    Strong Industrial Potential: With renowned companies offering certified services and high-value products, along with a workforce ready to train future pilots and technicians, Colombia is poised to be a leader in the future of aviation.

    More about transportation in Colombia

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    About Author

    Frank

    Frank

    Hello! I'm Frank Spitzer, the founder and the heart behind Pelecanus, a specialized tour operator for Colombia travel. My journey in travel is vast and rich – I've explored over 60 countries, absorbing cultures, experiences, and stories along the way. Since 2017, I've been channeling this wealth of global experience into creating unforgettable travel experiences in Colombia. I'm recognized as a leading authority in Colombian tourism, with a deep-seated passion for sharing this beautiful country with the world. You can catch glimpses of my travel adventures and insights around Colombia on my YouTube channel. I'm also active on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, where I share the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Colombia. For professional networking, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn. Join me on this incredible journey, and let's explore the wonders of Colombia together!