Colombian airline Avianca has announced a leadership change. Argentine Gabriel Oliva has been appointed as the new CEO of the Avianca Group, replacing Frederico Pedreira. Pedreira will leave his position on February 28, 2026, after five years with the company. To ensure a smooth transition, Avianca's Board of Directors approved the creation of the President position, which Gabriel Oliva will assume immediately, parallel to his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Frederico will remain as CEO until February 28 to ensure full continuity and alignment throughout the organization. Pedreira has led Avianca since 2021, progressing from COO to CEO. Under his leadership, the airline underwent a transformation that strengthened its financial position, optimized its network, and positioned Avianca as one of the most competitive and efficient companies in the region. During his tenure, Avianca expanded its network to over 160 routes and 80 destinations, carrying more than 38 million passengers in 2024. Gabriel Oliva has over 20 years of leadership experience, 14 of which are in the aviation industry. He joined Avianca in 2021 as CEO of Avianca Cargo, where he repositioned the business unit as a regional leader, and later became Chief Operating Officer. Under his leadership, operational safety, efficiency, and customer experience were strengthened. Oliva expressed gratitude for the appointment and confidence that the team will continue to improve performance, product, and service for customers. Pedreira, in turn, stated that leading Avianca was "an extraordinary honor and a journey." He expressed deep gratitude to the team for their dedication and for making the ordinary extraordinary. The announcement also highlights Avianca's strengthened presence in Argentina, offering over 45 weekly frequencies on its six international routes from Buenos Aires and Córdoba to Bogotá, Quito, Guayaquil, and Medellín.
