New Bolivian Airline Route to D.C. Offers Unique Travel Options

Travelers in the Washington, D.C. area can look forward to a new travel opportunity to South America starting this November. Boliviana de Aviacion, the national airline of Bolivia, is set to launch twice-weekly flights from its hub at Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz to Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Washington, with a stopover at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City. The inaugural flight is scheduled for November 4.

The new service will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays until February 24, 2026, and will resume from June 1 to August 31, 2026. Boliviana de Aviacion will utilize a Boeing 737-800 for this route, which is equipped to handle the journey efficiently.

This new route is particularly significant as Washington D.C. is home to the largest Bolivian community in the United States. Brian D’Amico, a director of airline business development at the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, emphasized the importance of this connection for the local Bolivian population, who now have direct access to their homeland.

Washington D.C. becomes Boliviana’s second U.S. destination, following Miami International Airport (MIA), which it serves both nonstop from Santa Cruz and via Panama City. This expansion reflects the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity between Bolivia and the United States.

Travelers should note that flights can only be booked for the entire route from Washington to Santa Cruz and back. Direct bookings between Washington and Panama City are not available. The distance from VVI to IAD is approximately 4,002 miles, which is beyond the typical range of the 737-800. However, the aircraft is well-suited for the segments between IAD and PTY, as well as VVI and PTY.

Boliviana de Aviacion operates a fleet of 24 aircraft, including three Airbus A330s, which are utilized for flights to destinations such as Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), and Miami. While the airline has limited partnerships with Avianca and Iberia, there is currently no integration with Boliviana’s loyalty program, Elevate.

For those looking to explore South America, this new route presents a valuable opportunity to experience Bolivia’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Whether visiting the bustling markets of La Paz, the salt flats of Uyuni, or the lush Amazon rainforest, travelers will find a diverse array of experiences awaiting them.

As travel enthusiasts know, planning a trip can be overwhelming, but understanding your options is key. With the addition of Boliviana de Aviacion’s new service, travelers can now consider a direct flight to Bolivia, making it easier to embark on an adventure filled with unforgettable experiences.

In summary, the launch of Boliviana de Aviacion’s new route to Washington, D.C. is an exciting development for travelers interested in exploring South America. With convenient flight schedules and a commitment to service, this airline aims to connect the Bolivian community in the U.S. with their homeland, while also inviting new travelers to discover the wonders of Bolivia. Whether you’re planning a visit to see family or are intrigued by the cultural and natural attractions of Bolivia, this new route offers a gateway to an enriching travel experience.