Aerocivil

The Unidad Administrativa Especial de Aeronáutica Civil (Aerocivil) is the Colombian government authority responsible for regulating, planning, directing and supervising civil aviation in the country. Its jurisdiction covers all Colombian airspace and the operation of domestic and international airports. Aerocivil issues the Colombian Aeronautical Regulations (RAC), which, together with the Commercial Code, set the rules of air transport and passenger rights; passenger complaints are overseen by the Superintendence of Transport.

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

Aerocivil standards (RAC 3) require absolute transparency in fare structures:

• Hand baggage: there is no carry-on allowance guaranteed by law: on low-cost airlines' cheapest fares, only a small personal item (that fits under the seat) is free, and the cabin bag is charged separately. Check the fare before you buy.
• Transparency: Airlines are required to display the total price of the ticket, including airport taxes and additional costs for checked baggage, before purchase confirmation.
• Right of withdrawal: Anyone who buys the ticket online or by phone can withdraw within 48 hours of purchase, as long as the domestic flight is at least 8 days away (15 days for international flights); the refund may deduct the administrative fee.

Transportation is regulated based on animal welfare and operational safety:

• In-Cabin (PETC): Permitted for small pets, provided the total weight (animal + carrier) does not exceed the limit set by the airline (generally between 8kg and 10kg).
• In-Hold (AVIH): Mandatory for larger animals. Requires the presentation of a vaccination certificate (valid rabies vaccine) and a health certificate issued by the ICA (Colombian Agricultural Institute).
• Service dogs: certified guide and assistance dogs travel free of charge in the cabin, at the passenger's feet, with the required documents. Emotional support animals follow each airline's policy.

• Seats: ask for seats together when booking; whether seat selection is charged depends on the airline and the fare.
• Stroller and car seat: many airlines carry one folding stroller and one car seat per child free of charge, checked at the counter or at the aircraft door; check your airline's policy.
• Priority: families with lap infants usually get priority boarding.

• Wheelchairs: Airlines must provide wheelchair assistance free of charge. Requests must be made at least 48 hours before the flight.
• MEDIF Form: Only required for passengers with complex medical conditions that require special assistance (e.g., onboard oxygen or stretchers). Authorization must be processed by the airline's medical team.
• Infrastructure: Under Aerocivil supervision, Colombian airports are required to maintain accessible routes (ramps, elevators, and tactile paving) for passengers with reduced mobility, following international accessibility standards.

• Aerocivil Colombia - Main Portal
• Air passenger protection — Superintendence of Transport
• Colombian Aeronautical Regulations (RAC)
• Entering and leaving Colombia with dogs and cats (ICA)
• Passenger rights and duties (Aerocivil)