Colombian low-cost carrier, VivaColombia is to introduce its first flights into the United States before the end of this year. The airline will launch links from both Bogota and Medellin to Miami in December as it expands its presence across the Americas.

Still in its fourth year of operation, VivaColombia has established itself as Colombia’s first true low-cost carrier. It launched operations in May 2012 and alongside a strong domestic operation currently offers international flights into Ecuador, Panama and Peru.

The US adventure will start from December 2, 2015 with the start of the Medellin – Miami route and followed from December 16, 2015 by the Bogota – Miami link. Both markets will be served on a four times weekly basis using Airbus A320 equipment.

The airline will be entering two very competitive markets, but will be the sole low-cost operator on both routes and will hope its low-fare strategy will both attract passengers across from existing operators and further stimulate the market.

The Bogota – Miami market already has up to seven daily rotations – up to three from American Airlines (subject to month of operation), three from Avianca and a daily LAN Colombia link. This year the existing carriers have provided more than 425,000 seats in each direction in this city pair.

The Medellin – Miami market currently has up to three daily flights – two flown by American Airlines (again month dependent) and a daily Avianca service. Together these airlines currently offer around 135,000 annual seats in each direction.