Avianca Announces Leadership Transition: Gabriel Oliva Appointed President as Part of Succession Plan

Avianca has announced a key leadership transition as part of its long-term succession strategy. Chief Executive Officer Frederico Pedreira will step down from his role on February 28, 2026, after five years of leading the airline through a period of significant transformation.

To support a seamless transition and reinforce its executive structure, Avianca’s Board of Directors has approved the creation of a new President position. Gabriel Oliva, who currently serves as Chief Operating Officer, will assume the newly established role effective immediately, while continuing his COO responsibilities. Pedreira will remain CEO until February 28 to ensure full operational continuity.

Since joining Avianca in 2021 as Chief Operating Officer—and subsequently serving as Deputy CEO before being appointed CEO—Pedreira has played a pivotal role in reshaping the airline. Under his leadership, Avianca strengthened its financial foundation, optimised its route network, and emerged as one of Latin America’s most efficient carriers, dedicated to expanding connectivity and making air travel more accessible.

During Pedreira’s tenure, the airline expanded its network to more than 160 routes across 80 destinations, transported over 38 million passengers in 2024, and improved competitiveness across all business segments.

Pedreira commented:
“Leading Avianca has been an extraordinary honour and quite a journey. I am profoundly proud of what our team has accomplished and grateful for their dedication. I am confident that, under Gabriel’s leadership and with our incredible team, Avianca will continue to reach new heights.”

Adrian Neuhauser, CEO of Abra Group, added:
“We continue to strengthen Avianca’s leadership team while advancing our succession plan. We thank Fred for the transformation he has led and welcome Gabriel as President to continue this momentum. Avianca enters this new phase from a position of strength and stability.”

Roberto Kriete, Chairman of the Board at Avianca, highlighted Pedreira’s impact:
“Fred has led Avianca through an extraordinary transformation—making it more efficient, competitive and connected. His dedication has left a lasting mark on the company. We warmly welcome Gabriel in his new role.”

Constantino de Oliveira Junior, Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abra Group, said:
“Fred leaves behind a legacy of discipline, purpose and strong results. We thank him for his leadership and welcome Gabriel as he takes on this important new position.”

Gabriel Oliva brings more than 20 years of leadership experience, including 14 years in aviation. Since joining Avianca in 2021 as CEO of Avianca Cargo, he has transformed the cargo division into a regional leader before taking on the COO role. His focus on integrated operations, safety, efficiency, and customer experience has strengthened the airline’s performance across both passenger and cargo operations.