Avianca, Colombia’s national airline and the country’s largest, is the only airline in Latin America to recieve the Aequales Certification, which recognises the airline for its efforts, including policies, processes, and initiatives promoting gender equality, equity and inclusion.
Avianca Recognised for Diversity and Inclusion
The Aequales Certification, awarded by Aequales, is one that reflects Avianca’s commitment as an airline towards an equal and inclusive workplace for all of its staff. Aequales is a gender equality and diversity consultancy firm based in Latin America, whose mission statement is to reduce gender inequality in the workplace throughout Latin America, using initiatives such as training, consultancy, certification, and workforce community development.
Avianca has taken several steps to become a more equitable place to work, with the airline proudly announcing the following measures:
- Parity in executive positions: 48% of Avianca’s executive roles are held by women.
- More female pilots in the airline industry: In 2023, Avianca graduated its first all-female pilot course in the company’s history and launched the fully funded “The Sky is Hers” scholarship program, offering 20 spots and job opportunities at the airline. Today, more than 150 women pilots are part of the company.
- Workplace diversity and inclusion: Partnerships such as with Best Buddies allow people with cognitive disabilities to work in customer service, Avianca Cargo, and Deprisa.
- Pay equity: The company uses the Hay Group methodology to ensure compensation is based on job responsibilities, not gender.
- Comprehensive well-being: Programs like Well, Families Onboard, anAvd Day Care provide support for physical, mental, and financial health, maternity and paternity assistance, lactation rooms, and prevention of gender-based and domestic violence.
- Accessibility: Through Avianca Accessible, the company implements protocols, training, and infrastructure improvements to guarantee inclusive travel experiences for people with disabilities.
Latin America’s Second-Largest Airline Celebrates Inclusivity
As Latin America’s second-largest airline (behind LATAM), Avianca has proven that fostering a welcoming and inclusive company culture does not have to come at the cost of performance. Maria Carolina Cortés, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Reputation at Avianca, proudly reflected on the airline’s new qualification in a statement:
“Being the first airline in Latin America to receive Aequales certification confirms that at Avianca we continue to build a culture where every person feels welcomed, heard, and valued. This certification reflects our commitment to an ongoing process of creating spaces where everyone can be authentic, grow, and give their best. When companies care for and listen to their employees, we soar higher and open opportunities for all.”
Avianca connects more than 80 destinations in over 25 countries through its network in the Americas and Europe.
Are you more likely to fly with Avianca now it has been recognised for its gender and disability-inclusive policies? Let us know in the comments below.
