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In commemoration of the World Day of Organ and Tissue Transplantation:

During 2024, Avianca transported 102 organs and blood samples in Colombia and Ecuador

  • This was possible thanks to partnerships between Avianca, the National Health Institute (INS) in Colombia and the National Institute of Organ Donation and Transplantation (INDOT) in Ecuador.
  • In Colombia, Avianca is the airline that transports the most organs and samples free of charge thanks to its extensive route network and connectivity, helping to save lives.
  • The airline completed the first year of its agreement with INDOT in Ecuador, using its resources and interest to generate a positive impact in the regions where it operates through the timely and safe transport of 43 organs and tissue and blood samples.

Bogota, February 27, 2025 - As a result of its partnership with the National Health Institute (INS) in Colombia, and the National Institute of Organ Donation and Transplantation (INDOT) in Ecuador, during 2024, Avianca transported 102 organs and blood samples, which are key to ensuring compatibility between the organ donor and recipient. This action made it possible to optimize the transfer processes and guarantee the viability of the transplants.

Through this joint action, the airline contributed to the work of saving lives and assisting medical personnel in the verification of certain diseases and conditions in patients who are candidates to receive or donate organs, key actions to achieve a successful transplant, especially in territories where the rate of organ donation remains low, with 7.4 donors per million population (p.m.p.) by 2023 in Colombia and 1.64 donors p.m.p. by 2020 in Ecuador.

Specifically in Colombia, Avianca has strengthened the work with INS, transporting more than 55 organs and 199 samples since its alliance in 2019. It is worth noting that Avianca is the airline that transports the most organs and samples free of charge in the country.

In Ecuador, the company signed an alliance with INDOT, which allowed the transfer of 73 blood samples, demonstrating Avianca's interest in connecting the region and at the same time helping its people.

"At Avianca, we firmly believe in our role as agents of change in society. By facilitating the transport of organs and tissues, we are helping to save lives and provide second chances. Our partnership with INS and INDOT is a clear example of how companies can generate a positive impact in their communities. Beyond connecting people through our flights, we are also putting our aircraft and equipment at the service of saving lives," said Felipe Andrés Gómez Vivas, Avianca's Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability.

“Organ and tissue transplants are only possible thanks to the generosity of donors and their families, the human talent in healthcare and the organizations in which they work that make it possible to give a second chance at life to patients on the waiting list. These highly complex procedures require the participation of companies such as Avianca, which contribute to the logistical operation for the transfer and exchange of organs and samples. On this day we highlight the importance of donation as a decision that must be discussed with the families so that this will is respected", said Diana Marcela Pava, general director of INS Colombia.

"Organ and tissue donation and transplantation are fundamental pillars to save lives and improve the health of hundreds of Ecuadorians. Each operation requires a high level of coordination and commitment, where the participation of key actors makes the difference. In this sense, the joint work with Avianca has been essential, as it enables the safe and agile transfer of organs, tissues and medical equipment. This collaboration reinforces the commitment of the National Institute for Organ, Tissue and Cell Donation and Transplantation (INDOT), an entity attached to the Ministry of Health, to continue optimizing the logical transplant processes for the benefit of those waiting in every corner of the country for a second chance at life," said Mario Herrera, executive director of INDOT.

The airline will continue to work closely with health institutions in Colombia and Ecuador, as well as with other organizations in the region, to strengthen transplant networks and guarantee access to treatment for all those who need it.