Colombia

The Colombian airport sector is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, with El Dorado International Airport (BOG) serving as one of the region's primary transit hubs. Air transport regulation is overseen by the Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil), which establishes the Colombian Aeronautical Regulations (RAC). The "Open Skies" policy and the growth of low-cost carriers have significantly increased domestic and international connectivity. Consumer protection is governed by the Consumer Statute (Law 1480 of 2011) and specific Aerocivil standards regarding passenger rights and obligations.

• Passport: must be valid for the whole stay and on departure; at least 6 months of validity is recommended.
• Tourist visa: most countries (including Brazil, the US and the European Union) are exempt for stays of up to 90 days, which can be extended by another 90 (180 days per year at most).
• Check-MIG: a mandatory, free online form from Migración Colombia, completed between 72 hours and 1 hour before the flight, on arrival and on departure.
• Yellow fever: the certificate is not required for most arrivals, but the vaccine is recommended (get it at least 10 days before) and may be required to visit risk areas within the country. Carry the international certificate: some airlines ask for it at boarding.

Passenger rights in Colombia are set out in RAC 3 (Colombian Aeronautical Regulations). For delays caused by the airline:

• 1 to 3 hours: a snack and a phone call of up to 3 minutes.
• 3 to 5 hours: in addition, a meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner, depending on the time).
• More than 5 hours: in addition, compensation of at least 30% of the segment price, paid in cash (unless the passenger accepts miles, vouchers or tickets). If the delay requires an overnight stay, the airline pays for the hotel and transport.
• Cancellation or denied boarding (overbooking): if the airline is at fault, the passenger chooses between a refund and rebooking on another flight and is entitled to compensation of at least 30% of the segment price, plus assistance.
• Complaints: first with the airline; if unresolved, with the Superintendence of Transport.

Colombian regulations allow airlines to set their own baggage policies, provided they are clearly disclosed at the time of purchase.

• 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.
• Checked baggage: Free baggage allowance is not mandatory, except for specific fare classes that include this service.
• 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.

The entry of dogs and cats is regulated by the ICA (Colombian Agricultural Institute):

• Health Certificate: Must be issued by the official health authority of the country of origin, certifying that the animal is healthy.
• Vaccination: Proof of rabies vaccination (administered no less than 30 days and no more than 12 months prior).
• Deworming: Certificate of internal and external deworming administered within the 30 days prior to travel.
• Inspection: Upon arrival, the animal must undergo an ICA inspection at the airport. Administrative fees may apply. The airline must be notified at least 48 hours in advance.

• Minors (Colombian citizens or residents): To leave the country unaccompanied or with only one parent, an "Exit Authorization" notarized by a notary public or consular authority is mandatory.
• Foreign minors: they must have a valid passport. If they travel with only one parent or with another adult, carry an authorisation from the parents with a notarised signature and the birth certificate: immigration may ask for them.

Colombia has strict accessibility laws based on Law 1618 of 2013.

• Assistance: Persons with reduced mobility, the elderly, and pregnant women are entitled to priority service at check-in counters, security checkpoints, and during boarding.
• Equipment: Airlines must transport wheelchairs and other assistive devices free of charge. Requests must be made at least 48 hours before the flight.
• Infrastructure: the main airports have ramps, lifts and accessible toilets.

• Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (Passenger Rights): https://www.aerocivil.gov.co
• Migración Colombia (Check-Mig Registration): https://www.migracioncolombia.gov.co
• Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA - Pet Entry): https://www.ica.gov.co
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia (Visas and Entry): https://www.cancilleria.gov.co
• Superintendence of Transport (Passenger Protection): https://www.supertransporte.gov.co/index.php/delegada-para-la-proteccion-de-usuarios/