Avianca Airlines, the flag carrier of Colombia and one of Latin America’s most established airlines, connects passengers from Europe to the vibrant destinations of the Americas. At Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)—one of the world’s busiest and most efficiently designed airports—Avianca ensures travelers experience seamless comfort, convenience, and excellent service. Understanding how Avianca operates at AMS Terminal can help passengers plan a smooth journey whether they are departing, arriving, or making a connection.
Overview of Avianca Airlines Operations at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Avianca Airlines typically operates from the main passenger terminal at AMS, where various piers and departure halls serve international flights. Schiphol’s terminal layout is unique because it functions as a single-terminal concept divided into three departure halls. This design makes it easier for travelers to navigate and access services without moving between distant terminal buildings. Avianca’s presence at AMS includes check-in areas, dedicated service counters, and efficient boarding gates that handle long-haul flights to destinations across Central and South America. Whether you are flying to Bogotá, Medellín, or connecting further into the Avianca network, the Avianca Airlines AMS Terminal facilities at AMS ensure a streamlined start to your journey.
Check-In Experience for Avianca Passengers
Passengers flying with Avianca can check in through several convenient options. At AMS, Avianca provides:
1. Airport Check-In Counters
Avianca’s check-in counters are located in the Departures Hall associated with long-haul international carriers. Airport staff assist travelers with baggage drop, ticketing issues, seat changes, and special service requests. It is advisable to arrive at least:
3 hours before an international departure
2 hours before a short-haul or regional flight
The check-in area is equipped with digital displays and clear signage so passengers can easily find Avianca’s designated counter space.
2. Online Check-In
Avianca encourages passengers to complete online check-in up to 24 hours before departure. This option allows travelers to select seats, download electronic boarding passes, and speed up their airport experience by using dedicated bag-drop lanes.
3. Self-Service Kiosks
Some kiosks at AMS allow Avianca passengers to print boarding passes and baggage tags. This reduces wait time, especially during peak travel seasons.
Security Screening and Departure Process
Once check-in is complete, passengers proceed to Schiphol’s efficient security control area. AMS is known for its advanced screening systems, making the process faster than at many major airports. Be sure to follow all standard security guidelines, such as separating liquids, electronics, and removing metal items. After security, travelers pass through immigration (for non-Schengen departures). Avianca flights typically depart from gates designated for long-haul international airlines, offering comfortable seating and boarding areas.
Lounges Available for Avianca Travelers
Although Avianca does not operate its own branded lounge at Amsterdam Airport, eligible passengers—such as those flying in Business Class or members of partner frequent flyer programs—may access affiliated lounges. These lounges offer:
Comfortable seating
Complimentary snacks and beverages
Wi-Fi connectivity
Productivity workstations
Rest zones and reading materials
These lounges provide a peaceful environment to relax before embarking on long intercontinental flights.
Dining and Shopping at AMS Terminal
One of the standout features of Schiphol Airport is the sheer variety of food, shopping, and leisure options accessible to Avianca passengers.
Dining Options
From Dutch specialties to international cuisines, the terminal offers:
Full-service restaurants
Grab-and-go outlets
Cafés
Bars and lounges
Travelers can enjoy fresh meals, light snacks, and a wide beverage selection, including freshly brewed coffee—perfect for long layovers.
Shopping Choices
AMS is known as a shopping paradise, offering duty-free and luxury retail experiences such as:
Fashion boutiques
Electronics and accessories
Perfume and beauty stores
Souvenirs and Dutch specialty shops
Passengers can explore everything from iconic brands to unique local products before boarding their Avianca flight.
Amenities and Services for Avianca Passengers
The terminal serving Avianca offers a wide range of traveler-friendly features:
1. Free Wi-Fi
Schiphol provides stable, free internet throughout the terminal, enabling passengers to stay connected before departure.
2. Charging Stations
Multiple charging points make it easy to power laptops, tablets, and phones.
3. Baggage Services
Baggage wrapping stations, storage lockers, lost-and-found desks, and oversized luggage support are available.
4. Family-Friendly Facilities
AMS offers nursing rooms, children’s play areas, child-friendly restrooms, and stroller rental options, ensuring families traveling with Avianca enjoy a stress-free airport experience.
5. Accessibility Services
The terminal is fully accessible with ramps, lifts, designated seating, wheelchair services, and priority assistance for passengers with disabilities or mobility needs.
Arrivals: What to Expect When Landing with Avianca at AMS
Upon arrival from an Avianca flight, passengers proceed through immigration checkpoints, designed to handle international travelers efficiently. Moving from the gate to passport control is simple, thanks to clear signage and helpful staff. After immigration, passengers collect baggage from the designated carousel area. Schiphol’s modern baggage system ensures quick delivery of luggage, even on high-traffic days.
From arrivals, passengers can easily access:
Taxis and rideshare pickup zones
Amsterdam’s railway station located beneath the terminal
Buses, shuttle services, and car rental facilities
The convenient layout enables Avianca passengers to reach the city or continue their onward journey with minimal effort.
Transit and Connecting Flights
For Avianca passengers making connections at AMS—whether to European destinations or intercontinental flights—the airport provides a smooth transfer system. Because Schiphol operates on a single-terminal concept, travelers moving between gates don’t need shuttle buses or lengthy transfers. This makes AMS one of the best airports for connections, even with short layover times.
Schiphol offers multilingual signage and real-time flight information screens to help passengers track their connecting flights. Assistance is available for travelers with tight schedules or specific mobility requirements.
Why Travelers Prefer Avianca at AMS
Passengers flying Avianca through Amsterdam enjoy benefits such as:
Highly efficient terminal layout
World-class amenities and airport services
Smooth check-in and security processes
Access to lounges and numerous shopping/dining choices
Easy connections to Europe and beyond
AMS enhances Avianca’s long-haul flight experience by offering a traveler-centric environment, making the journey enjoyable from start to finish.
