In this context, Travel2latam spoke with Gilda Velez, Sales Manager of United Airlines Colombia.
What has the opportunity to participate in the Showcase been like?
For us Anato is the most important tourism fair in Colombia so it is key to be here. We come from the United commercial team, we are 3 colleagues committed to the industry and the beautiful thing about Anato is that it not only gives you the opportunity to open new businesses, but to connect with those important partners such as travel agents.
How do you describe the current situation in the Colombian operation?
Last week we celebrated 30 years of operation in the country, confirming it as one of the most active markets in LATAM, which makes us important to connect Colombia with the world, for example, with routes to Houston and New York in the United States. We have three daily frequencies there and we are excited to introduce a new one that will be temporary in May-September to New York that will be implemented this year.
How do you notice the demand of the Colombian market? What expectations do you have?
Colombians like to fly, I think all airlines have fairly high load factors. The market is quite resilient, despite the circumstances we may have, we are always ready to travel. The United States is one of the main international destinations for Colombians. And speaking of United, last year we have maintained load factors greater than 70% on all our routes, which is important compared to the great demand we have in the market.
What could you tell us about by 2025?
I would go beyond 2025, to a macro project known as “United Next” starting from now until 2032, where the largest order for aircraft was placed. There are 800 new B787-9 ships that will arrive and will open up the possibility of having many more routes, not only in Colombia but in all parts of the world.
What ships do you work with?
Since the end of 2022, we have changed our fleet with new 166-passenger planes, which have a very important screen entertainment system, space in the overhead compartments so that all suitcases can fit, and outstanding on-board food and beverage service.
What do you think this season is like in general terms for Colombian tourism?
I think we are in a very interesting season. Although corporate trips have not had the same growth compared to 2019, the possibility of developing and investing in tourism and the promotion of Colombia as the main tourist destination has opened up possibilities for us to have new clients that we call recreation or leisure. It is a key time to come to Colombia, invest, visit it and of course, travel with United to the United States from Colombia.
How is the year going in terms of promotion or participation in events or initiatives?
Our idea is to continue working with our partners: travel agents and travel agencies, and obviously attend the main tourism fairs, but also accompany the agencies in Colombia. And as for United events, last week we celebrated the company's 30 years in Colombia. We are also part of the committee to promote tourism to the United States from Colombia, and we will continue working with all of them in search of greater growth.