Juan Carlos Zuazua, VivaAerobus Director, Drives Aggressive Expansion
VivaAerobus, under the leadership of Director Juan Carlos Zuazua, has decided to seize opportunities without delay this year. The airline’s teams are working tirelessly, as there is no time to waste.
Recent Announcements and Expansion Plans
Last week, Zuazua announced an aggressive expansion of seven new direct routes to the United States from the International Airport of Bogotá (AIFA), set to begin in November to capitalize on the winter season.
AICM Slots and Viva’s Presence
The Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is estimated to release only three or four slots per hour this year, which Viva will use to strengthen its presence and maintain its leading position in the domestic market.
Long-term Vision and Collaboration with Colombian Authorities
With a long-term vision, Viva continues to analyze international destinations such as Jamaica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, their Colombian team prepares to increase connectivity with Mexico.
Monterrey-Bogotá Route Expansion
On April 11, Aeroenlaces Nacionales, through its subsidiary Colombia VivaAerobus, submitted a request to the Colombian aviation authority to increase weekly frequencies from three to four on the Monterrey-Bogotá-Monterrey route.
Viva’s Home Base and Operations
Monterrey is Viva’s home base, housing its main operational center in the country and corporate offices. In June 2023, Viva launched the long-awaited direct flight between Monterrey and Bogotá with two weekly frequencies. Due to its success, the frequency was increased to three.
Direct Flights and Market Presence
Viva offers direct flights from AIFA, Guadalajara, and Cancún, making it a significant player in the market alongside Avianca.
Upcoming Fourth Weekly Frequency
The start date for the fourth weekly frequency, which will be announced at the Tianguis Turístico in Baja California from April 28 to May 1 (potentially with the presence of Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez), is not public. However, it may be a few days before the Wings of Change Americas (WOCA) conference organized by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in Bogotá at the end of June.
Return to Canaero and Low-cost Model Recognition
Viva’s return to the National Aerotransport Association (Canaero) reflects the low-cost model’s established position and its necessity in major industry forums.
Pratt & Whitney Engine Review and Business Opportunities
Although the Pratt & Whitney engine review remains unresolved, Viva’s technical and legal experts have managed the situation and their fleet of 93 A320 and A321 aircraft, prompting them to seek new business opportunities.
Brand Ambassadors and Future Announcements
Viva’s young brand ambassadors eagerly discuss upcoming announcements and their continued role as news bearers at major company events, invited as distinguished guests.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is VivaAerobus expanding to? VivaAerobus is expanding to seven new direct routes from Bogotá to US destinations, starting in November.
- Why is VivaAerobus expanding? The airline aims to capitalize on the winter season and strengthen its presence in key markets.
- What is the status of Viva’s operations at AICM? AICM will provide Viva with limited slots, which the airline intends to use for consolidation and market leadership.
- What is the current status of the Monterrey-Bogotá route? Viva currently operates three weekly frequencies between Monterrey and Bogotá, having recently increased from two due to demand.
- What is the significance of Viva’s return to Canaero? Viva’s return to Canaero signifies the low-cost model’s established position in the Mexican aviation industry.
