JetSMART Colombia Takes to the Skies with Inaugural Flight from Bogotá to Medellín

JetSMART Colombia commenced its commercial flight operations with a successful inaugural flight between Bogotá and Medellín José Maria Córdova on March 14, marking a significant milestone for the airline. The service was operated using the Airbus A320-200N, CC-AWZ (msn 11551), highlighting the airline’s commitment to modern, efficient air travel within Colombia.

This launch follows the recent acquisition of an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from Colombia’s civil aviation authority (Aerocivil), positioning JetSMART Colombia as the latest carrier under the JetSMART brand to secure an AOC. This achievement aligns with the brand’s expansion strategy, which includes operations in Chile, Argentina, and Peru.

JetSMART Colombia has been authorized to operate domestic flights across a network of eight routes, including connections between Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Pereira, and Cali. This network underscores the airline’s ambition to enhance domestic connectivity and provide affordable travel options to Colombian passengers. In its first year, JetSMART Colombia aims to transport over two million passengers, contributing to the country’s aviation sector and economy.

The airline has declared Medellín as its new hub and plans to base three aircraft there, signaling a strategic focus on serving Colombia’s air travel needs with a modern fleet. Despite initial plans to operate with brand-new jets in Colombia, the airline’s launch utilized aircraft sourced from its Chilean sister’s fleet, including three Chilean-based airframes, indicating a flexible approach to its fleet management strategy.

JetSMART’s entry into the Colombian market is notable, especially after the exit of two ultra-low-cost carriers in 2023, Viva Colombia and Ultra Air, suggesting an opportunity for the airline to fill the gap and cater to the demand for low-cost air travel.

With the operations kick-off in Colombia using the Chilean ‘JA’ code, JetSMART demonstrates a unified approach across its subsidiaries, moving away from separate codes used in Argentina and Peru. This strategy may streamline operations and brand recognition across its markets.

JetSMART’s fleet, as per ch-aviation, consists of 23 aircraft in Chile, including a mix of A320s and A321s, while the Argentinian and Peruvian branches operate A320-200s and A320-200Ns, respectively, showcasing the airline’s commitment to a modern and efficient fleet across its operations.

JetSMART Colombia’s launch represents a promising development in Colombia’s aviation landscape, offering passengers more choices for domestic travel and showcasing the airline’s ambition to become a key player in the region’s aviation industry.